Application Guide
How to Apply for Legal Counsel - International
at Onja
🏢 About Onja
Onja is a unique social enterprise that trains underprivileged youth in Madagascar to become world-class software developers, breaking the cycle of poverty and driving national development. Working here means contributing to a mission-driven team that values both impact and a relaxed, peaceful work environment, with the flexibility of remote work.
About This Role
As Legal Counsel - International, you will lead legal efforts to support Onja's scaling operations, navigating cross-border contracts, compliance, and risk management across multiple countries. Your work will directly enable the organization to expand its reach and continue transforming lives through education and employment.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve reviewing and negotiating contracts with international partners, advising on compliance matters for remote hires across different countries, and collaborating with the leadership team to mitigate legal risks. You'll have the flexibility to set your own schedule, but will need to communicate effectively with a distributed team across time zones.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Onja Is Looking For
- Experienced in international law, with a focus on contracts, data privacy, and employment law across multiple jurisdictions.
- Adept at drafting and negotiating agreements with international tech companies and partners.
- Comfortable working independently in a remote, part-time capacity, with strong communication and organizational skills.
- Passionate about social impact and aligned with Onja's mission of empowering underprivileged youth.
📝 Tips for Applying to Onja
Highlight any experience with social enterprises, NGOs, or cross-border legal work in developing countries.
Demonstrate your familiarity with remote work and ability to manage legal matters autonomously.
Tailor your resume to emphasize contract negotiation, compliance, and risk management in international settings.
Mention any knowledge of data protection laws (e.g., GDPR) and how they might apply to Onja's operations.
In your cover letter, express genuine interest in Onja's mission and how your legal skills can support scaling impact.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Emphasize your experience with international contracts and cross-border legal issues.', 'Show your commitment to social causes and understanding of the challenges in developing countries.', 'Mention your ability to work flexibly and remotely, and how you can contribute to a growing team.', 'Highlight any relevant experience with tech companies or startups, and your adaptability to new legal environments.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Understand Onja's training model and the impact they have on their students and community.
- → Learn about the legal landscape in Madagascar and any specific regulations affecting NGOs or social enterprises.
- → Research common legal challenges for remote-first companies, such as data privacy and cross-border employment.
- → Look into Onja's partner companies and the types of contracts they might need legal support with.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention Onja's mission or the unique aspects of the role.
- Focusing only on local legal experience without showing adaptability to international contexts.
- Underestimating the part-time nature of the role and not demonstrating how you'll manage your time effectively.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!