Associate Legal Officer

The UNHCR Legal Affairs Service provides comprehensive legal guidance on commercial contracts, employment disputes, organizational privileges and immunities, and governmental partnerships. This unique opportunity is designed specifically to include lawyers with refugee experience, offering valuable perspectives to the organization while providing international legal experience.

Position Overview

Working within UNHCR’s Legal Affairs Service in Nairobi, this role combines legal expertise with humanitarian impact. The position includes mentorship opportunities through Zurich Insurance’s Pro Bono Committee, offering professional development and networking possibilities.

Key Responsibilities

Legal Advisory

• – Provide expert guidance on commercial matters and complex agreements
• – Review and draft sophisticated contractual frameworks
• – Support cash-based intervention programs
• – Advise on UN privileges and immunities
• – Assist with human resources legal matters

Contract Management

• – Review complex commercial agreements
• – Draft institutional and operational documents
• – Develop new legal frameworks
• – Negotiate with third parties
• – Ensure compliance with UN regulations

Policy and Research

• – Conduct legal research and analysis
• – Review human resources policies
• – Support private sector engagement initiatives
• – Provide guidance on procedural matters
• – Assist with investigation procedures

Requirements

Essential Qualifications

• – Law degree with bar admission
• – 3 years legal experience
• – Fluent English required
• – Strong analytical capabilities
• – Commercial law experience

Desired Experience

• – Refugee background (preferred)
• – Public international law knowledge
• – French language proficiency
• – Contract drafting expertise
• – UN system familiarity

Professional Development Opportunities

Zurich Insurance Mentorship Program

• – Leadership skill development
• – Technical legal training
• – Communication enhancement
• – Career guidance
• – Professional networking

Living Conditions in Nairobi

• – Modern metropolitan environment
• – International standard facilities
• – Accessible healthcare services
• – Well-connected transportation
• – Diverse expatriate community

Benefits Package

• – Living allowance
• – Insurance coverage
• – Travel costs
• – Professional development
• – UN Volunteer certificate

Additional Information

• – Position supports UN volunteerism
• – Multicultural work environment
• – Professional growth opportunities
• – International exposure
• – Direct humanitarian impact

Equal Opportunity Statement

UNHCR and UNV are committed to diversity and inclusion. Special consideration given to candidates with refugee status.

Note: This position is subject to UN Volunteer conditions. No application fees required at any stage.