Legal Officer (Nuclear and Treaty Law)

Legal Officer (Nuclear and Treaty Law)

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

August 15, 2026August 31, 2026ViennaAustria
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is an international organization that works to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons. Established in 1957, the IAEA operates in over 170 countries and has a mission to ensure that nuclear energy is used safely and securely. The organization employs a diverse workforce of professionals from various fields, including legal affairs, to support its objectives.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer (Nuclear and Treaty Law) position is a critical role within the Office of Legal Affairs at the IAEA. The incumbent will provide specialized expertise in nuclear law, focusing on nuclear safety, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and liability. This role involves preparing legal instruments and documentation, offering advice on their interpretation and implementation, and assisting Member States with their national nuclear legislation. The Legal Officer will work closely with a team of lawyers and support staff, contributing to the development and implementation of projects related to nuclear law and the IAEA Legislative Assistance Programme. The position requires a proactive approach to legal challenges in the nuclear sector and the ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly to various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Officer will be responsible for implementing projects related to nuclear safety, security, and liability. Key duties include providing legal expertise to the Secretariat, developing guidance materials and analytical studies, representing the Office of Legal Affairs during IAEA missions, and advising Member States on their national legislation. The incumbent will also prepare legal drafts, contribute to policy development, and perform other duties as assigned by the Section Head. This role requires a collaborative approach, as the Legal Officer will work as part of a team to achieve the objectives of the Office of Legal Affairs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a higher degree in law (e.g., Juris Doctor or an advanced law degree) and must be admitted to practice in a national bar or equivalent. A minimum of seven years of relevant experience is required, including at least five years at the international level, particularly within the UN system. Proven experience in preparing legal drafts is essential, along with a strong command of written and spoken English. Knowledge of another official IAEA language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The position requires a higher degree in law, such as a Juris Doctor or an advanced law degree. Candidates must be qualified to practice law in their home country, which demonstrates their legal expertise and understanding of international law principles.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of seven years of relevant legal experience, with at least five years in an international context, particularly within the United Nations system. This experience should include a strong background in nuclear law and the ability to draft legal documents effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional official IAEA languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is advantageous and will enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The IAEA offers a competitive remuneration package, including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at approximately US $86,027, along with a variable post adjustment and various benefits such as annual leave, health insurance, and a pension plan. The organization is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified women and candidates from developing countries. The recruitment process emphasizes fairness and integrity, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated based on their qualifications and experience.
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