Project Assistant Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) was established in 1965 as the lead UN agency in international development. It operates in 170 countries and territories with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality. UNDP functions as the United Nations’ global development network, assisting countries in developing policies, leadership skills, partnerships, and institutional capabilities to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. The organization focuses on six core development areas known as signature solutions: poverty and inequality, governance, resilience, environment, energy, and gender equality. In Ghana, UNDP is implementing its Country Programme Document (2023-2027) in alignment with the Government of Ghana's development agenda, particularly through the Environment and Climate Cluster (ECC), which aims to build a Green, Inclusive, and Prosperous Country that Creates Opportunities for All. The ECC collaborates with national partners to strengthen planning and delivery processes for environmental sustainability at both national and local levels, focusing on implementing global environmental agreements and coordinating interventions across various sectors.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant Intern will be a vital member of the Environment and Climate Cluster, reporting directly to the Head of Cluster. This role is designed for a recent university graduate, preferably female, who is passionate about sustainable development and is considering advanced studies in this field. The intern will support the management and implementation of selected projects, providing both programme management and administrative assistance. The position involves close collaboration with operations, programme, and project staff within the Country Office (CO) and UNDP Headquarters to ensure effective service delivery. The intern will engage in various tasks, including project monitoring, administrative support, and knowledge management, contributing to impactful work in Ghana and beyond.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Assistant will undertake a variety of duties, including:

• Programme Management Support (15%): - Assist in the implementation of UNDP’s programme on environment and climate. - Support project monitoring activities, ensuring deliverables are produced satisfactorily according to plans. - Review and provide feedback on project reports to enhance programme quality.
• Administrative Assistance (70%): - Prepare background information for project implementation, work plans, and budgets. - Support procurement processes for goods and services, human resources, and payment processes related to projects. - Maintain proper filing of financial and technical documentation and reports. - Record meetings and draft correspondence as needed. - Assist in organizing in-country events such as meetings, seminars, workshops, and training sessions, ensuring all logistical arrangements are in place.
• Knowledge Building and Management (15%): - Synthesize and document lessons learned and best practices in the programme. - Provide research support for data collation and analysis, presenting information for success stories and articles to communicate UNDP’s achievements.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements at the time of application: - Be enrolled in a graduate school program or be a university graduate from a Ghanaian university with a Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resource Management, Social Science, or Development Studies. - Strong experience in supporting the management of development projects related to Natural Resource Management, Climate Change, Waste, Chemicals, and Circular Economy is essential. - Desired technical knowledge includes excellent oral and written communication skills, accuracy in document production and editing, and strong interpersonal skills. Candidates should be culturally and socially sensitive, able to work inclusively and collaboratively with diverse partners, and possess familiarity with communication tools for development. - The ability to adapt professionally in challenging environments and work effectively in multicultural teams is crucial. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and database management is also required. Self-motivation, the ability to work with minimal supervision, and sound security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security awareness are important attributes.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s Degree in one of the following areas: Natural Resource Management, Social Science, or Development Studies. Applicants must be either enrolled in a graduate program or have recently graduated from a Ghanaian university.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for this position includes strong experience in supporting the management of development projects, particularly in areas related to Natural Resource Management, Climate Change, Waste, Chemicals, and Circular Economy. Internship experience or other placements involving the UN or international development organizations are considered assets. Candidates should also demonstrate early thought leadership through an online presence.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The intern will report to the Programme Specialist (Team Lead) and will work closely with technical experts. Interns may receive a stipend under conditions outlined in the internship stipends policy. Important information for US Permanent Residents ('Green Card' holders) is provided, indicating that acceptance of a staff position with UNDP may have significant implications for their status. UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from marginalized or excluded populations.