About the opportunity
The Office of the Legal Counsel at the Pan American Sanitary Bureau (PAHO) is seeking a Legal Advisor to provide authoritative legal advice to Executive Management, PAHO/WHO Representatives, and Department Directors. The incumbent will review and draft legal instruments, conduct research on international and administrative law, and represent the Organization’s legal interests. This role requires extensive expertise in public international law, commercial law, and corporate governance, as well as the ability to influence decision-making at a senior management level. The position is a one-year, limited-duration appointment with a probationary period, based in Washington, D.C.
Salary and benefits
- Annual salary of 86,027.00 USD (Step I)
- Professional staff position within an international organization
- Opportunity to work on complex international, administrative, and organizational legal matters
Who can apply?
- University degree from a recognized university
- Master's degree in law, international relations, political science, or a related field
- Licensed to practice law in a PAHO Member State
- Nine years of combined national and international experience in law with a public international organization, governmental agency, and/or private practice
- Experience in public international law, contracts, administrative law, technical cooperation agreements, and comparative law
- Managerial experience
- Fluency in English and Spanish
- Demonstrated ability to use ERP systems and standard office software (Microsoft Office suite)
Required documents
- Completed online profile
- Scanned copies of official degree(s), diploma(s), or certificate(s) (required if selected for an interview)
When to apply
- Applications opened on August 12, 2026
- Application deadline is September 2, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time
How to apply
- Complete the online profile via the official PAHO careers portal
- Submit the application through the online system before the deadline
Additional information
- This vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade and level.
- Candidates will be contacted only if they are under serious consideration.
- PAHO conducts background checks and has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and abuse.
- Persons with disabilities can request reasonable accommodations by emailing pahorecruitment@paho.org.
- Knowledge of French and/or Portuguese is considered an asset.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Licensed attorney with a master's degree in law, international relations, or political science.
- Nine years of experience in public international law, contracts, and administrative law.
- Demonstrated managerial experience and the ability to provide expert counsel at a senior management level.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is a one-year, limited-duration appointment with a probationary period.
- The role is based on-site in Washington, D.C., necessitating relocation if you are not currently based in the area.
- Fluency in both English and Spanish is required for this position.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role offers a unique opportunity for a legal professional to work at the intersection of international, administrative, and organizational law within a major global health institution. It is well-suited for someone looking to leverage their expertise in corporate governance and international agreements to support high-level decision-making.
Our take
Legal experts with significant international experience and bilingual proficiency will find this a compelling opportunity. Those looking for long-term tenure or remote work should look elsewhere.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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