Apply for KEMRI Legal Officer Job in Nairobi 2026. Find latest government and NGO jobs in Kenya. Deadline: 04 March 2026.
Job Summary
The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is inviting applications from qualified legal professionals for the position of Legal Officer. This contract-based role supports the Institute’s legal, compliance, and documentation functions.
The application deadline is 04 March 2026 at 5:00 PM.
This opportunity is ideal for advocates with strong legal drafting, advisory, and compliance skills who wish to work within a public health research institution.
Job Title
Legal Officer
Organization
Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)
Job Location
Nairobi, Kenya
Application Deadline
04 March 2026 at 5:00 PM
Duties and Responsibilities
The Legal Officer will support the Institute’s legal and regulatory functions by providing accurate legal review, documentation, and advisory services. Key responsibilities include:
- Reviewing and verifying legal and administrative documents against historical records in individual case files
- Collecting, analyzing, and organizing information required for legal case files and reporting findings to the supervisor
- Identifying potential legal, contractual, and regulatory compliance risks affecting the Institute
- Supporting the preparation and compilation of contracts, agreements, and related legal documentation
- Assisting in the review of institutional contracts to ensure compliance with applicable laws and policies
- Drafting legal opinions, briefs, and internal advisory notes on various legal matters
- Supporting the interpretation of laws, regulations, and policies relevant to institutional operations
- Assisting in managing legal records and ensuring proper documentation and filing systems are maintained
- Providing support on compliance-related issues and internal legal processes
- Undertaking additional legal assignments as directed by the immediate supervisor to support institutional needs
Why Work Here
- Opportunity to work with a nationally recognized public research institution
- Exposure to legal work within the health research and public sector environment
- Professional experience in contracts, compliance, and institutional legal processes
- Structured work setting with clear reporting and accountability frameworks
- Chance to contribute legal expertise to research initiatives that support public health in Kenya
Requirements / Qualifications
Applicants must meet all of the following minimum requirements:
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from a recognized institution (mandatory)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Studies from the Council of Legal Education (mandatory)
- Admission as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya (mandatory)
- Valid practicing certificate at the time of application (mandatory)
- Proficiency in computer applications and legal documentation tools (mandatory)
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including legal reporting (mandatory)
- Good interpersonal and negotiation skills (mandatory)
- High standards of integrity and professional ethics (mandatory)
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team (mandatory)
Salary & Benefits (Estimated Range)
- Estimated monthly salary: KES 80,000 – KES 120,000, based on job grade KMR 06
- One-year contract, renewable subject to availability of funds and satisfactory performance
- Three-month probation period at the start of the contract
- Benefits and allowances will be provided in accordance with institutional policies
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted online only through the official application platforms.
Applicants who are successful at later stages of the recruitment process will be required to provide the following clearance documents:
- Certificate of Good Conduct
- Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) Compliance Certificate
- Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Tax Compliance Certificate
- Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) Clearance Certificate
Application links:
👉 https://www.kemri.go.ke/
👉 https://erecruitment.kemri.go.ke:7070/
Applications must be completed and submitted on or before 04 March 2026 at 5:00 PM. Late submissions will not be considered.
Important Notes
- This is a contract position for one (1) year, renewable based on funding availability
- Only one (1) vacancy is available
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- The organization is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women, youth, persons with disabilities, and candidates from marginalized communities
- No fees are charged at any stage of the recruitment process
- Any request for payment related to recruitment should be reported immediately
Disclaimer
This job advertisement is provided for informational purposes only. The recruiting organization is solely responsible for the recruitment and selection process. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee selection.
FAQs
1. Is this a permanent position?
No. This is a one-year contract position, renewable subject to availability of funds and performance.
2. Where will the Legal Officer be based?
The successful candidate will be based in Nairobi (Kargeno).
3. Is admission as an Advocate mandatory?
Yes. Applicants must be admitted as Advocates of the High Court of Kenya and hold a valid practicing certificate.
4. Are government clearance certificates required?
Yes. Clearance certificates from KRA, HELB, EACC, and a Certificate of Good Conduct are required for successful candidates.
5. How should applications be submitted?
Applications must be submitted online through the official KEMRI website or the designated e-recruitment portal before the deadline.