As the German Red Cross (DRK), our mission is to be there for people and help them – solely according to their need. For more than 150 years, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement has provided comprehensive assistance to people. No matter what we do or where we work, our actions are always guided by the seven fundamental principles of the Red Cross: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality.
At the German Red Cross (DRK) headquarters in Berlin, you will help shape the future direction of the DRK as the national Red Cross society and leading association of independent welfare organizations. Every day you will contribute to ensuring that people in Germany and worldwide receive help – solely based on their need.
We are looking for a Legal Officer (m/f/d) to join our team as soon as possible.
The position is located within the “Presidium and Executive Board” division of the German Red Cross (DRK) General Secretariat and is assigned to the “Executive Staff” team within the “International Relations and International Humanitarian Law” unit. Together with your colleagues, you will contribute to strengthening the DRK’s international legal mandate by participating in international initiatives and implementing national projects to promote international humanitarian law.
The position is full-time. The initial contract is for two years; however, long-term employment is the goal.
Your tasks:
- Positioning and advice on humanitarian and international law issues, as well as on the mandate and principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
- Development and implementation of strategic measures for dissemination work
- Supporting the work of volunteer convention officers
This means in detail:
- Preparation of opinions, positions and statements in the field of international humanitarian law and “Red Cross law”
- Implementation of strategic measures for dissemination work (“position paper” and “activity catalogs”) as well as development of further measures
- Conception, implementation and participation in internal and external association events for dissemination work
- Development and implementation of publications and communication measures for dissemination work
- Promotion of the system of volunteer convention officers
- Participation in representing the German Red Cross’s interests under international law and representation in specialist forums at the national and international level.
We expect:
- Successfully completed studies in law or a comparable field of study
- Excellent knowledge of international humanitarian law and general international law
- Solid knowledge of the mandate and principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
- Interest in current topics and debates relating to international humanitarian law, particularly in the areas of foreign, security, defense policy and humanitarian aid.
- Systematic, reliable and precise working methods
- Excellent written and spoken communication skills
- Fluent English skills
- Experience in national and/or international association work
- Excellent communication, coordination, and teamwork skills
We offer:
- A responsible and diverse role dedicated to humanity
- Space for your professional and personal development in an experienced and dedicated team
- Fair working conditions in accordance with the German Red Cross (DRK) reform collective agreement
- Remuneration according to pay group 13
- 30 vacation days per year and Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve off work
- An attractive company pension scheme (VBL)
- Flexible working time models to ensure a better work-life balance.
- Mobile working (up to ten working days per month for full-time employees) with on-site presence in Berlin depending on work requirements.
- Urban Sports Club, Headspace, Babbel and other individual offers for health promotion and personal development
How to apply
Should you have any questions about the position, please contact Dr. Katja Schöberl (Head of the International Relations and International Humanitarian Law Unit) at k.schoeberl@drk.de.
As an employer, we are particularly committed to the principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. We welcome applications from people regardless of ethnic, social, or national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation.
We look forward to receiving your application by July 24, 2026!
International Law Lecturer (m/f/d)