Legal Assistant - Visas Services & Foreign Affairs

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Position Title: Legal Assistant - Visas Services & Foreign Affairs
Location: Texcoco de Mora
Country: Mexico
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow’s problems today. Established as a core CGIAR Research Center, CIMMYT focuses on improving the quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops. The organization operates primarily in the Global South, working to enhance the livelihoods and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers. CIMMYT collaborates with various national and international partners to foster a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system while addressing issues of poverty, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and natural resource management. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

Job Overview:
The Legal Assistant specializing in Visas Services & Foreign Affairs will play a crucial role in supporting the Legal Department at CIMMYT. This position is designed for a dynamic, self-motivated, and service-oriented professional who will be responsible for managing visa applications, contract life cycle management, and maintaining strong relationships with governmental and diplomatic entities. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of immigration regulations and the ability to handle various legal documents and correspondence efficiently. The Legal Assistant will ensure that all visa and protocol processes are conducted in compliance with relevant regulations, fostering positive relations with embassies and consulates. The position also involves administrative tasks, data management, and supporting the department in optimizing legal services processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: providing support in the drafting, review, negotiation, and management of contracts and agreements; managing visa applications and renewals for CIMMYT staff and visitors; maintaining accurate records of sensitive documentation; assisting with tax exemption approvals for shipments; drafting diplomatic communications; performing protocol event management; serving as a point of contact with embassies and government agencies; preparing for meetings with senior personnel and foreign representatives; managing departmental tasks such as expense reports and travel arrangements; tracking vehicle maintenance; and participating in the optimization of legal services processes. The role requires the ability to manage a high volume of tasks and projects while ensuring deadlines are met and priorities are maintained.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Law, Political Science, or International Relations. A minimum of 3 years of experience in similar roles is required, along with a clear understanding of Mexican immigration regulations and consular processing procedures. Strong organizational skills are essential, as well as the ability to maintain integrity and discretion when handling confidential information. Proficiency in both English and Spanish is mandatory, with a minimum C2 score required on the English test as per CEFR. Candidates should also demonstrate proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office, Zoom, and Adobe Acrobat, and be willing to learn new software as necessary. Excellent writing, research, and communication skills are crucial, particularly the ability to convey legal concepts to non-legal stakeholders.

Educational Background:
The position requires a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as Law, Political Science, or International Relations. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of legal and immigration processes, as well as the instruments of international relations that will be encountered in the role.

Experience:
Candidates must have at least 3 years of relevant experience in legal assistance or a similar role, particularly in managing visa applications and understanding immigration regulations. This experience is vital for ensuring compliance with legal standards and effectively supporting the Legal Department's functions.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Spanish is mandatory for this position. Candidates must demonstrate a high level of English proficiency, scoring a minimum of C2 on the CEFR scale. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package that includes benefits beyond the provisions of Mexican Labor Law, such as a year-end bonus equivalent to 40 days of salary, a vacation premium of 56%, life and medical insurance, supermarket coupons, and a savings fund. The organization also provides social benefits in accordance with Mexican regulations (IMSS, SAR / Infonavit). This position is based at CIMMYT headquarters in Texcoco, State of Mexico, near Mexico City, and is a full-time role.