ERS Internship

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The UN operates in various countries around the world, with a significant presence in Geneva, Switzerland, which serves as one of its major hubs for diplomacy and international cooperation. The organization employs thousands of individuals across diverse fields, working collaboratively to achieve its goals and uphold human rights.

Job Overview:
The ERS Internship is a full-time position designed to provide support for the coordination of response efforts to emergencies and disasters. Interns will engage in various emergency response services, including rapid deployment of staff, logistics support, and capacity building for responders. The internship may be conducted in-person, remotely, or in a hybrid format, depending on the successful candidate's preferences. Interns will play a crucial role in strengthening national and international disaster response capacities, facilitating disaster assessments, and managing networks of humanitarian experts. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in emergency response and humanitarian assistance, contributing to the UN's mission of providing aid and support during crises.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a range of duties, including but not limited to:

• Supporting the rapid deployment of staff and experts in response to emergencies.
• Providing logistical support to operations and the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
• Compiling and disseminating operational response guidance to relevant stakeholders.
• Assisting in capacity building initiatives for responders and fostering partnerships.
• Strengthening disaster response preparedness capacities at both national and international levels.
• Facilitating initial disaster assessments and coordinating the deployment of appropriate staff resources.
• Managing rosters and networks to ensure effective deployment of humanitarian experts.
• Providing technical services to support field operations and ensuring adherence to international response standards.
• Collaborating with partners to develop and maintain effective networks, such as the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) and the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG).

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) be enrolled in, or have completed, a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher); or (b) be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor's degree or equivalent). While professional work experience is not required for this internship, candidates should have a field of study closely related to the internship's focus. Additionally, proficiency in standard software applications, particularly MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, and MS Teams, is essential for this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a relevant educational background, either by being enrolled in or having completed a graduate program or the final year of an undergraduate program. This educational requirement ensures that interns have the necessary theoretical knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the internship's objectives.

Experience:
While prior professional work experience is not mandatory for this internship, candidates are expected to have relevant academic experience or coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the position. This could include internships, volunteer work, or academic projects related to emergency response, humanitarian assistance, or disaster management.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is considered desirable, as it is also a working language within the UN, and proficiency in both languages would enhance communication and collaboration in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Switzerland may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements with the UN prior to accepting the internship offer. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring that all applicants can apply without financial burden.