About the opportunity
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) leads international efforts to defeat hunger and achieve sustainable food security. Under the general supervision of the FAO Representative in Colombia and the Administrative Officer, the Legal Support Specialist delivers specialized legal accompaniment to the FAO Representation in Colombia. The role involves ensuring the proper review and formalization of legal instruments, addressing inquiries from internal and external entities in coordination with the General Legal Affairs Service (LEGA), safeguarding the Organization’s legal nature, and mitigating legal and institutional risks.
Salary and benefits
- Receive competitive remuneration and compensation consistent with FAO National Project Personnel (NPP) terms.
- Gain professional experience within a specialized United Nations agency.
- Work in a dynamic international environment focused on sustainable development and food security.
Who can apply?
- Professional degree in law with a postgraduate specialization in international law, administrative law, contractual law, or areas related to the responsibilities of the position.
- Minimum of 5 years of professional experience after graduation in similar roles and in public sector contracting.
- Practical knowledge of Spanish (C level proficiency).
- Colombian nationality or residency in the country with a valid regular work permit.
Required documents
- Complete online profile via the FAO recruitment portal.
- Academic credentials and diplomas obtained from a recognized institution included in the World Higher Education Database (WHED)/UNESCO.
When to apply
- Job posted on October 22, 2026.
- Application deadline is November 5, 2026, at 22:59:00.
How to apply
- Access the FAO recruitment website and log into your online profile.
- Complete the online application form and submit your profile for the position.
- Ensure all required qualifications and credentials are correctly uploaded through the portal prior to the deadline.
Additional information
- The position duration is 12 months with a 2-month probationary period.
- The requisition type is National Project Personnel (NPP).
- FAO does not charge fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
- Incomplete applications will not be considered.
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…
- Ideal for legal professionals in Colombia with at least five years of post-graduation experience in public contracting and administrative or international law.
- Strong fit for lawyers experienced in drafting international cooperation agreements, memoranda of understanding, and institutional instruments.
- Well-suited for candidates seeking to apply their legal expertise within a prominent United Nations agency focused on sustainable development.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role requires fluency in Spanish and restricts applicant eligibility to Colombian nationals or valid work permit holders residing in Colombia.
- The contract is temporary for a duration of 12 months, featuring an initial 2-month probationary period.
- All applicants must successfully pass rigorous reference and background checks in line with UN standards.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This 12-month temporary position offers legal professionals an impactful opportunity to strengthen international cooperation frameworks, hone UN institutional compliance skills, and contribute directly to FAO's mandate in Colombia.
Our take
Legal professionals in Colombia with extensive background in administrative, public, or contractual law who wish to support multilateral development initiatives should seriously consider applying before the November 2026 deadline.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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