Somalia: Legal officer / Translator, Somali National, Hargeisa

Duty Station: Hargeisa/Berbera

Availability: As soon as possible

Post category: Officer Level

Group classification: 1

Reporting Line

The Legal Officer/Translator will support the Department of Operations under the overall guidance of the Head of Operations. In his/her capacity as Legal Officer, he/she will provide assistance on all operational legal issues, as necessary, to the Advisers at EUCS Headquarters and its field offices. In his/her capacity as Translator, he/she will conduct translations and provide interpretation support to the international staff in the context of the implementation of the EUCAP mandate. The duties will be performed mainly in Hargeisa/Berbera with a possibility of duty travel to other regions, when the need arises. This position reports to the Head of Operations, in coordination with the Head of Field Office, and is responsible for:

Main Tasks and Responsibilities

• Providing legal expertise and advice on legal issues related to the host country legal framework, including advice on host country regulatory and other instruments, mechanisms and arrangements.
• Preparing, under the guidance of the Advisers, draft documents on legal issues pertaining to the implementation of EUCS’ mandate.
• Conducting research on legal issues related to public international law and relevant host country law.
• Assisting the Advisers in all areas of their respective work, including liaising with local interlocutors, assisting in the preparation and delivery of legal training courses, the organization of workshops and other events.
• Translating documents from Somali into English and vice versa.
• Providing interpretation services in meetings with Somali interlocutors.
• Preparing talking points for the Advisers ahead of meetings with Somali interlocutors.
• Preparing and participating in meetings, conferences and other events, preparing meeting reports.
• Maintaining the highest level of confidentiality when dealing with assigned tasks and responsibilities, as well as with all EUCS documents and information.
• Perform any other related duties as instructed by the line manager or designated alternate.

Essential Qualifications and Experiences

• Successful completion of university studies of at least 3 years attested by a diploma (undergraduate level).
• The qualification should be in Law or equivalent/related field, such as human rights or political science

AND

• After having fulfilled the education requirements, a minimum of 3 years of professional experience, in the practice of law in an international organization, a government, a private company or a law firm, with substantial experience in international, administrative, public and regulatory law matters.
• Substantial experience in translation and interpretation, including interpreting and translating for international experts.
• Knowledge of functions and practices of the host country and other Rule of Law systems.
• Knowledge of local legal terminology.

Essential Knowledge, Skillsand Abilities:

• Strong organizational skills that reflect an ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks in an energetic environment with multiple priorities.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, in difficult circumstances, as well as ability to communicate with personnel at all operational and strategic levels.
• Proven interpersonal skills and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.
• Exemplary writing and editing skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, and the Internet.
• Excellent communication and analytical skills in both written and spoken English and Somali language.
• Teamwork oriented;
• Strong sense of confidentiality and discretion;

Desirable Qualifications and Experiences

• A Master Degree in Law
• Diploma or certificate in English Language skills, in both translation and interpretation, for example IELTS certificate or equivalent academic or professional training, evidenced by a certificate.
• Previous professional experience working in an international organization.
• Knowledge of maritime issues in the host country and at international level.
• Knowledge of relevant jurisprudence in the host country.
• Knowledge of European Security Defence Policy (ESDP) Missions and EUCAP activities in Somalia.
• Additional language skills are desirable.
• Good presentation skills.
• Ability to work without supervision, complete assigned tasks within strict deadlines and consistently maintain quality and accuracy in performance of duties.
• Able to maintain a clean, safe and hazard free working environment. Meticulous time keeping, and, ability and willingness to work additional hours if required.

Special Note

Mandatory requirement to pass security clearances and medical checks.

Job Category: Officer Level

Application package and full job description available at: https://www.eucap-som.eu/call-for-contributions-national-staff/