Senior Legal Officer – Administrative Law

About the role

The Senior Legal Officer (Administrative Law) joins UNRWA’s legal team at its headquarters in Amman, reporting to the Principal Legal Officer (General Law). The role provides expert legal advice, training and support on administrative and employment law matters, and contributes to the development of UNRWA’s internal justice system.

Key responsibilities

• Provide legal advice, training and outreach on administrative and employment law, including investigations and disciplinary matters.
• Draft, review and present Agency submissions to the UNRWA Dispute Tribunal and the UN Appeals Tribunal, and appear before these tribunals as required.
• Interpret and apply UNRWA’s Area and International Staff Regulations, Rules and related administrative issuances.
• Offer legal input into HR strategy, policy development and the administration of the internal justice system.
• Draft and review contractual documents such as procurement contracts, memoranda of understanding and funding agreements.
• Advise on the status, privileges, immunities and conduct standards of the Agency and its personnel.

Required profile

• Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in law, preferably with specialization in administrative, employment or public international law.
• Admission to practice law in a recognized jurisdiction.
• At least seven years of experience as a lawyer in the United Nations, other international organization, government, private sector or NGO, including work on administrative or employment law and tribunal matters.
• Strong English drafting abilities.

Required skills

• Excellent English drafting and legal writing skills.
• In‑depth knowledge of UNRWA’s staff regulations and administrative issuances.
• Ability to analyze complex legal issues and provide clear, actionable advice.
• Persuasive communication and influencing skills.