Intern in Programme Resources and Oversight Unit

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 protect human health and the environment from hazardous chemicals and wastes. The organization operates in multiple countries and has a significant number of employees dedicated to various environmental projects and agreements.

Job Overview:
The intern will be working within the Programme Resources and Oversight Unit (PROU) of the Executive Office of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions (BRS). This position is designed for individuals who are looking to gain practical experience in administrative support within a global environmental context. The intern will be responsible for assisting with various administrative tasks, supporting the Programme Oversight Group (POG), and contributing to the development of project proposals and funding requests. The role requires a proactive approach to managing communications and documentation, as well as a commitment to supporting the overarching goals of the BRS Conventions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will perform a variety of tasks including providing administrative assistance to the unit, supporting the POG monthly meetings, writing and circulating meeting minutes, sending reminders about reporting deadlines, updating funding needs tables, and maintaining the BRS Dashboard. Additional responsibilities include assisting in the preparation for the Fifteenth meeting of the Basel Convention Open-ended Working Group, developing project proposals, coordinating with other branches of the Secretariat, and preparing briefing notes and background materials. The intern may also be assigned other duties by the Head of Unit as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must be enrolled in or have recently completed a graduate or final year of an undergraduate programme in fields such as Public Administration, Political Science, International Relations, Business Administration, Data Science, or a related area. While professional work experience is not required, a relevant field of study is essential. Candidates should demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills, organizational abilities, and attention to detail. Previous internship or administrative experience in an international organization or government setting is desirable but not mandatory.

Educational Background:
Candidates should be in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master’s or Ph.D. Programme, or have completed such programmes. Proof of enrollment or completion will be required during the application process. This educational background is crucial as it aligns with the responsibilities and tasks expected in this internship.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates with previous internship or administrative experience in international organizations, government, or academic settings will be viewed favorably. The emphasis is on relevant educational background and the ability to apply academic knowledge in a practical setting.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another UN official language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's application. The ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages is beneficial in a diverse international environment.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position with an expected duration of 6 months. 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 Switzerland 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. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.