Job Identification (Reference Number): 13383
Position Title: Legal Officer (P)
Duty Station City: Panama City
Duty Station Country: Panama
Grade: P-2
Contract Type: Fixed-term (1 year with possibility of extension)
Recruiting Type: Professional
Vacancy Type: Vacancy Notice
Initial duration: 12 Months
Closing date: 23 April 2025

EDUCATION

• Master’s degree in Law from an accredited academic institution with two years of recent, relevant professional experience; or
• University degree in Law with four years of relevant professional experience.
  Accredited Universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database .

EXPERIENCE

• Recent experience practicing contract law in a law firm, or the Legal Department (or equivalent) of a United Nations entity or other in-house legal role with recent practicing experience, advising on contract law;
• The following experience would be an advantage: Advisory work on public and private sector financing, supply chain and procurement matters, intellectual property, project management, dispute resolution;
• Experience in analyzing legal instruments, undertaking legal research and drafting legal documents and contracts; and,
• Experience in advising on the privileges and immunities of an international organization.

SKILLS

• Legal research and drafting skills;
• Critical thinking and problem solving ability; and,
• Ability to handle crisis situations effectively and provide solutions in high-pressure environments.

1. Prepare draft contracts for IOM’s operations and activities, including funding, procurement and project implementation agreements. Assist with contract negotiations where required.
2. Assist in preparing legal advice for colleagues worldwide, in order to protect IOM’s legal interests.
3. Conduct legal research including on contract law in order to inform the conduct of IOM’s operations and activities.
4. Review and assist with the development of internal guidance and policies on legal issues arising in the work of the Unit.
5. Provide support capacity on the legal side, as needed, including through review of documents and duty travel, if required.
6. Assist with the analysis of privileges and immunities issues in contracts where funding and operations are underway or may be contemplated.
7. Assist in preparing legal advice to colleagues worldwide, including on issues arising in connection with funding, partnerships, supply chain, finance, termination of contract and dispute resolution.
8. Support the Legal Officer, Unit Head, during any periods of leave, absence, or any periods of unavailability.
9. Identify potential legal risks in operations and promptly inform the Legal Officer, Unit Head, to ensure early engagement and advice from the Office of Legal Affairs.
10. Conduct thorough analyses of Division archive in order to assist with knowledge management and organization of internal systems, and propose changes aimed at enhancing efficiency and effectiveness.
11. Performing such other duties as may be assigned.