Associate Legal Officer (JPO) - Department of Legal Affairs

About the role

UNRWA's Department of Legal Affairs advises on and promotes the consistent interpretation and application of international law, covering international human rights law, international humanitarian law, refugee law and UN law, as well as the Agency's regulatory framework, contracts and governance. This Associate Legal Officer (JPO) post is part of the Netherlands-sponsored Junior Professional Officer scheme and is open only to nationals of the eligible countries listed by the Nedworc Foundation; Jordanian nationals are excluded. The JPO reports to the Director of Legal Affairs and works closely with the General Law Unit and the International Law Unit.

Key responsibilities

• Support the Department's legal advisory work: take part in the daily work of the General Law and International Law Units and support the Director in advising UNRWA leadership on sensitive and complex legal issues.
• Handle an assigned portfolio of legal cases and issues, including litigation, internal justice matters, diplomatic correspondence and legal opinions on international law.
• Review commercial contracts and support the legal aspects of procurement and other operational activities.
• Undertake designated legal projects, such as developing standard agreement templates for partners.
• Take part in official meetings and follow-up actions, and liaise with legal advisers across the UN system.

Required profile

• Nationality of an eligible country under the JPO scheme; Jordanian nationals cannot apply.
• Understanding of UNRWA's mandate, operations and institutional framework.
• Interpersonal, communication and stakeholder coordination skills, professional judgement, discretion, confidentiality and ethical conduct.

Required skills

• Legal research, analysis and application of international and general law.
• Legal drafting, advisory work and case management.

What we offer

• A three-year training programme: Year 1 induction and practical learning, Year 2 advanced legal practice and collaboration, Year 3 consolidation and career development.
• Duty Travel and Training Allowance of USD 4,000 per year for learning, travel and professional development.