Internship in Capacity Development Programme Management Office

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is located within the Capacity Development Programme Management Office (CDPMO) of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) at the United Nations. UN DESA was established to support the economic and social development of member states and to promote international cooperation. The office focuses on capacity development strategies and works to enhance the effectiveness of the UN's development efforts. It operates globally, engaging with various countries to implement its programs and initiatives. The CDPMO plays a crucial role in coordinating and evaluating capacity development work across different UN divisions and offices, ensuring that resources are mobilized effectively and that partnerships are fostered for sustainable development.

Job Overview:
This internship is designed to provide practical experience in the field of capacity development within the United Nations framework. Interns will work closely with staff members in the CDPMO, contributing to various projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing the capacity of member states to achieve sustainable development goals. The internship is structured to be full-time, requiring interns to commit to 35 hours per week, and is primarily based at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. However, there is flexibility for telecommuting arrangements based on the needs of the office and the intern's circumstances. Interns will gain exposure to project management, research, and coordination activities, while also developing skills in communication and collaboration within a multinational environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have a range of responsibilities that may vary depending on their background and the specific office to which they are assigned. Key duties include assisting in project management and coordination efforts related to financial development, public institutions, and sustainable development initiatives. Interns will also engage in research activities, drafting analytical documents, and preparing materials for conferences, workshops, and meetings. Additional responsibilities may involve collecting and sorting data and statistics, as well as performing other tasks as assigned by the Head of Office. This role is designed to provide interns with hands-on experience in the workings of the UN and to contribute to meaningful projects that support global development efforts.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, applicants must meet specific educational criteria. They should either be enrolled in or have completed a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher) or be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent). While no prior work experience is required, applicants should possess skills and knowledge that will benefit the UN during their internship. A field of study closely related to the internship is essential, and applicants must demonstrate proficiency in standard software applications, particularly MS Word, MS PowerPoint, and MS Teams.

Educational Background:
Applicants must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in or have completed a Master’s or Ph.D. program. This educational background is crucial as it ensures that interns have the necessary theoretical knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the work of the CDPMO. Proof of enrollment or completion of the relevant degree must be provided during the application process, and an official certificate will be required at a later stage.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is necessary for this internship, applicants should have relevant training, education, or advanced coursework that aligns with the responsibilities of the internship. This could include academic projects, volunteer work, or other experiences that demonstrate the applicant's ability to contribute to the UN's mission and objectives. The focus is on the applicant's potential to learn and grow within the organization rather than on previous employment history.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of an additional official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the applicant's candidacy. Proficiency in multiple languages is highly valued in the UN environment, where communication across diverse cultures is essential.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially compensated 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. Those who are not citizens or permanent residents of the country where the internship is located may need to secure the appropriate visa and work authorization prior to starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their visa requirements with the UN before accepting the internship offer. Additionally, the UN emphasizes that there are no fees associated with any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible to all qualified candidates.