MRDCis seeking a highly motivated, commercially astute and experienced Junior Commercial Lawyer to join its Legal Services Division.

This is an exciting and rewarding career opportunity with Papua New Guinea’s leading manager of landowner and provincial government trust interests derived from the country’s resource sector.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will:

• Draft, review and negotiate a broad range of commercial contracts, deeds and legal agreements.
• Provide sound commercial legal advice and strategic recommendations to Management.
• Conduct legal due diligence and identify legal and commercial risks.
• Support commercial negotiations and represent the organisation in legal discussions as required.
• Manage litigation matters and liaise with external legal service providers.
• Advise on statutory, regulatory and corporate governance compliance.
• Assist in the development and review of corporate policies and governance frameworks.
• Monitor legal developments and emerging risks affecting the MRDC Group.
• Prepare legal reports, briefs and recommendations for Senior Management.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

Applicants must possess:

• Bachelor of Laws (LLB) Degree.
• Admission to practise before the Supreme, National and District Courts of Papua New Guinea.
• Current Practising Certificate issued by the PNG Law Society.
• A minimum of 3 – 5 years’ post-admission experience in commercial law practice.
• Demonstrated experience in drafting, reviewing and negotiating complex commercial agreements.
• Strong knowledge of corporate, commercial and regulatory law.
• Experience in Company Secretarial functions will be an advantage.
• Previous experience within the Mining, Oil & Gas, Resources or Corporate sector will be highly regarded.

Key Competencies

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Excellent commercial judgment and legal analytical skills.
• Strong negotiation, drafting and problem-solving abilities.
• High ethical standards, integrity and professionalism.
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong organisational and time management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team environment.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit the following documents as a single PDF to recruitment@mrdc.com.pg using the subject line: “JUNIOR COMMERCIAL LAWYER”:

(i) a cover letter;

(ii) an updated resume; and

(iii) certified copies of academic qualifications and current Practising Certificate.

Applications close: 18 September 2026.

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

 

MRDC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from suitably qualified Papua New Guineans.