Principal Legal Officer

Job Description & Skills/Qualifications Required

Date: July 2026
Position Title: Principal Legal Officer
Division: LEGAL Classification
Level: G7S1-G8S7 $46,427.77-$72,601.93 p.a.
Reporting Structure: Manager of Legal Division

Primary Objective

The Principal Legal Officer’s primary function is to provide support to the Manager of Legal Services on a wide range of legal matters including contracts, compliance and regulatory issues.

Responsibilities

  1. Draft and review a variety of contracts and agreements including procurement contracts, MoU, MoA and employment contracts.
  2. Provide legal advice to the Manager of Legal Services on contractual, constitutional and legislative interpretation matters.
  3. Conduct research and analyze legal issues and regulations/legislation relevant to the operation of the Authority.
  4. Monitor changes in laws, regulations and legal trends that may affect the Authority and provide recommendations for compliance.
  5. Assist with corporate governance matters and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
  6. Prepare and maintain legal documentation - corporate records, contract and regulatory filings.
  7. Perform other legal tasks and responsibilities as assigned and instructed by the Manager of Legal Services.

Selection Criteria 

  1. A bachelor's degree in Law and a practicing member of the Samoa Law Society. (Essential)
  2. At least two (2) years practical experience preferably in a corporate or commercial setting. (Essential)
  3. Good working knowledge and understanding of all legislation and regulations applicable to the operation of LTA. (Essential)
  4. Sound working knowledge in contract law, corporate law and legislative interpretation. (Essential)
  5. Excellent legal research, writing and analytical skills. Proficient in legal research tools and databases. (Essential)
  6. Strong organizational skills and the time management skills as well as the ability to work independent. (Essential)
  7. Familiarity with litigation and dispute resolution processes. (Desirable)

Competencies

  1. Leadership
  2. Decision Making 
  3. Flexible 
  4. Honesty 
  5. People Management 
  6. Relationship establishment with stakeholders 
  7. Legal & Politics background 
  8. Punctuality 
  9. Integrity

Job Functions

Lawyers, Solicitors & Baristers

Industry

Government & Defence

Indoor/Outdoor

Indoor, Outdoor

Other Information (Attachments)