Senior Legal Officer

About the role

The Counter‑Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED) is seeking a Senior Legal Officer to join its Assessment and Technical Assistance Office in New York. Reporting to the Chief of Branch, the incumbent will provide high‑level legal guidance on UN Security Council resolutions that address terrorism, its financing, and related organized‑crime issues.

Key responsibilities

• Provide authoritative legal advice on complex questions concerning the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions (e.g., 1373, 2178, 2331, 2396, 2462, 2482, 2617).
• Prepare, review, and ensure consistency of draft reports, stock‑taking updates, and technical guides for Member States.
• Lead and supervise a team of officers, guiding junior staff on legal and counter‑financing of terrorism (CFT) matters.
• Make recommendations to senior CTED officials on actions to improve State compliance.
• Engage with international, regional, and sub‑regional organisations to coordinate capacity‑building assistance.
• Identify States and partners requiring technical assistance and facilitate bilateral or multilateral support.
• Participate in assessment visits to Member States to monitor compliance with relevant resolutions and international standards.

Required profile

• Advanced degree in law with specialization in international security, counter‑terrorism, or related fields.
• Extensive experience interpreting and applying UN Security Council resolutions on terrorism and its financing.
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and supervise junior legal officers.
• Strong analytical skills and capacity to produce high‑quality legal reports and guidance documents.
• Excellent communication skills for interaction with Member States and international partners.

Required skills

• In‑depth knowledge of UN Security Council resolutions relevant to counter‑terrorism and financing.
• Expertise in international law, especially as it pertains to terrorism, organized crime, and financial regulations.
• Ability to draft and review legal documents, reports, and technical guides.
• Experience coordinating technical assistance programmes and capacity‑building initiatives.