Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and is involved in various initiatives to foster sustainable practices worldwide. The organization operates in multiple countries and has a significant number of employees dedicated to environmental issues, policy-making, and advocacy. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices and to provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment.

Job Overview:
This internship opportunity is located within the Life Cycle Initiative unit of the Resources and Markets Branch, Industry and Economy Division of UN Environment. The intern will work under the direct supervision of the Head of the Life Cycle Initiative, in coordination with Programme Officers under the unit. The Life Cycle Initiative is a public-private, multi-stakeholder partnership that aims to advance the understanding of life cycle thinking among decision-makers and to facilitate access to life cycle knowledge. The intern will engage in projects related to Life Cycle Thinking (LCT) and Sustainable Consumption and Production, providing support to programme officers working in high-impact sectors such as Buildings and Construction, Mining and Extractives, and Textiles. The internship is expected to last for a duration of 6 months, and the team is looking to recruit two interns, one for an in-person position and one for a remote position.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's duties may include, but are not limited to: supporting activities that promote life cycle thinking in high-impact sectors; assisting with research, data collection, and analysis on life cycle thinking and related themes; coordinating outreach efforts for existing and new partners in line with the Life Cycle Initiative strategy; providing day-to-day support for project-related activities, including drafting documents, minutes, and presentations; updating and maintaining the Initiative’s members/sponsors list; contributing to communications activities, including social media posts and website updates; assisting with logistical preparations for meetings, events, and webinars; and performing additional tasks as requested by the team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be enrolled in a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher) or in the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum Bachelor’s level or equivalent). Alternatively, candidates who have graduated with a university degree must commence the internship within one year of graduation. Academic backgrounds should be at least at Bachelor’s level or equivalent in fields such as environmental science, political science, social science, international studies, public administration, economics, engineering, earth sciences, or related areas.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes being enrolled in a graduate programme or being in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree. Candidates should have a strong academic foundation in relevant fields such as environmental science, political science, social science, international studies, public administration, economics, engineering, or earth sciences. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of sustainable development and life cycle thinking.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a foundational understanding of environmental issues and sustainable practices, which can be gained through academic study or relevant internships. While specific prior work experience is not mandatory, familiarity with research methodologies, data analysis, and project support in an academic or professional setting is advantageous. The internship is designed for individuals who are looking to gain practical experience in the field of environmental policy and sustainable development.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the United Nations. Knowledge of additional languages is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with diverse stakeholders and enhance the intern's ability to contribute to international projects and initiatives.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, and all costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the interns or their sponsoring institutions. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship is undertaken may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. Additionally, it is emphasized that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.