Legal Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an international organization established to promote cooperation among its Member States in the field of space exploration and technology. ESA serves as the European gateway to space, facilitating advancements in space science and applications for the benefit of citizens on Earth. The agency operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to pushing the boundaries of discovery and exploration. ESA's mission is to foster innovation and collaboration in space-related activities, ensuring that Europe remains at the forefront of space exploration.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer position at ESA involves working under the direct authority of the Head of the Institutional Law Division. The role is situated within a team of highly skilled lawyers in a multicultural environment, focusing on various legal disciplines such as public international law, European law, and the national laws of ESA's Member States. The Legal Officer will be responsible for providing legal advice, conducting legal analyses, and preparing necessary legal documents to support ESA's activities and programs. This position requires a proactive approach to legal challenges and the ability to work closely with decision-makers within the agency. The Legal Officer will also represent ESA in legal matters before various boards and tribunals, ensuring that the agency's interests are effectively communicated and defended.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Officer's duties include providing legal advice and conducting analyses on developments in public international law, including international civil service law and national labor laws relevant to ESA's operations. The officer will draft legal instruments and working documents essential for the agency's activities, offer legal guidance on the formulation and application of ESA's regulations, and assist in the implementation of these rules in daily operations, particularly concerning employment law. The role also involves attending internal committees and boards to provide legal support, representing ESA before the Advisory Board and the ESA Administrative Tribunal, and preparing necessary legal submissions and pleadings. Additionally, the Legal Officer may be tasked with other related duties as required by the agency.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in law, with advanced studies in public international law, administrative law, or employment law being highly desirable. Qualification for admission to the Bar in a national jurisdiction is considered an asset. The position requires at least three years of proven experience in litigation matters, preferably within an international context. Strong conflict resolution and negotiation skills are essential, along with the ability to draft legal submissions on complex issues and conduct thorough legal research independently. Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work under pressure while meeting tight deadlines are also required. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are necessary to maintain effective working relationships in a multicultural environment. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, is expected, along with the ability to adapt quickly to new technologies, including AI.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in law is mandatory for this position, with a focus on public international law, administrative law, or employment law. Additional qualifications, such as admission to the Bar in a national jurisdiction, will enhance a candidate's profile and are considered advantageous for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant professional experience, particularly in litigation matters within an international context. Candidates should demonstrate a strong background in legal practice, with a focus on conflict resolution and negotiation skills, as well as the ability to draft complex legal documents and conduct independent legal research.

Languages:
The working languages of ESA are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is required for the position. Knowledge of another language from an ESA Member State is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's profile and ability to communicate effectively within the agency's diverse environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is a permanent contract within the grade band A2-A

• However, if the selected candidate has less than four years of relevant professional experience following the completion of their master's degree, the position may be filled at the A1 level. The recruitment process may include selection tests, and successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment, in compliance with ESA's security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security procedures. The agency is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women and individuals with disabilities. ESA values diversity and aims to accommodate individuals with disabilities in the workplace.