Legal Officer (P)

IOM; Genf; On-site; CHF 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

IOM in Geneva seeks a Legal Officer to advise on international administrative law, immunities, and staff-related issues. You will draft submissions for tribunals and review investigations, supporting senior officials in complex legal matters.

The role requires a Master’s degree in Law (or equivalent), 5+ years of relevant experience including 4+ years in International Administrative Law, and strong writing/research skills. English proficiency is essential; additional languages are desirable.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Law from an accredited institution with five years of relevant experience, or a University degree in Law with seven years of relevant experience.
• A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required for Master’s degree holders, seven years for University degree holders, including at least four years in International Administrative Law.
• Excellent writing and research skills with knowledge of ILOAT jurisprudence and international administrative law.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal counsel on privileges and immunities, particularly for staff or contractors before national authorities.
• Draft legal submissions for administrative and tribunal proceedings (JARB, ILOAT) and related matters.
• Review investigation reports and advise on disciplinary action, settlements, or other administrative measures.

Skills

Excellent writing and research skills

Knowledge of public international law

Education

Master’s degree in Law

University degree in Law

Job description

Organizational context: Established in 1951, IOM is a UN-related organization dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration. It collaborates with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners, providing services and advice to governments and migrants. The Office of Legal Affairs supports the Organization's activities by ensuring compliance with its legal framework, including its Constitution, regulations, and international law.

Job purpose: The Legal Officer will work within the General and Administrative Law Division, providing essential legal advice, recommendations, and services. This role is crucial for ensuring the Organization's operations and activities align with its legal status, constitution, functions, rules, and governing principles. A significant focus will be on human resources legal issues, contributing to the effective and lawful management of IOM's workforce and operations globally. The position supports senior legal officers in complex legal matters.

Responsibilities: Provide legal counsel on privileges and immunities, particularly concerning claims by staff or contractors before national authorities, personnel arrests, tax exemptions, and national security system affiliations. Draft legal submissions for administrative and tribunal proceedings, including the Joint Administrative Review Board (JARB) and the International Labour Organization Administrative Tribunal (ILOAT). Review investigation reports from the Office of the Internal Oversight (OIO), assess the need for disciplinary action, and initiate processes or advise on alternative measures. Prepare legal advice for senior officials on international administrative law, recommending settlements, final decisions, disciplinary measures, or other administrative actions, and assist in their implementation. Attend relevant internal and external meetings and conferences.

Education: A Master’s degree in Law from an accredited institution with five years of relevant experience, or a University degree in Law with seven years of relevant experience. Accredited universities are listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

Work experience: A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is required for Master's degree holders (seven years for University degree holders). This includes at least four years specifically in International Administrative Law, with demonstrated experience in managing staff misconduct cases, disciplinary proceedings, and drafting legal documents for internal justice systems and the ILOAT.

Skills: Excellent writing and research skills. Knowledge of public international law, with specific expertise in ILOAT jurisprudence and international administrative law.

Required languages: English

Desired languages: Arabic, French, Russian, Spanish