Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is a prominent organization established by the UN General Assembly to promote sustainable urbanization and human settlements. UN-Habitat serves as the focal point for urbanization issues within the UN system, working collaboratively with various partners to foster inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities. The organization aims to leverage urbanization as a transformative force to reduce inequality, discrimination, and poverty. The Global Water Operators’ Partnerships Alliance (GWOPA), initiated in 2009, is a key initiative under UN-Habitat that supports water and sanitation operators through peer support partnerships, enhancing their capacity and performance to provide better services in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The GWOPA Secretariat, currently hosted by the Government of Germany, is responsible for translating GWOPA’s mandate into actionable strategies and programs, ensuring that partnerships are scaled up to improve water and sanitation services globally. The internship program offers a dynamic learning environment where candidates can engage with pressing issues in the water and sanitation sector, particularly in low-income urban settings, and develop skills in project management, research, and communication.

Job Overview:
The internship position at UN-Habitat focuses on supporting the Global Water Operators’ Partnerships Alliance (GWOPA) in various thematic and operational areas. Interns will engage in planning, implementing, and reporting on GWOPA’s projects, contributing to knowledge development and documentation, and assisting in the preparation of global outreach and learning events. The role involves updating the GWOPA Data Portal, supporting project budget and financial management, and preparing for significant events such as the GWOPA Assembly and the World Urban Forum 202

• Interns will work closely with professional staff and will have a tailored work plan based on their background and the needs of the organization. This position is designed to provide interns with hands-on experience in addressing challenges faced by water and sanitation operators worldwide, with a focus on capacity development and service improvement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: supporting the planning, implementation, and reporting of GWOPA projects; developing and managing knowledge communities; preparing for global outreach and learning events; updating the GWOPA Data Portal; assisting in project budget and financial management; and preparing for major events such as the GWOPA Assembly and World Urban Forum 202

• Additional duties may include drafting concept papers and background documents, developing project briefs for resource mobilization, conducting data management and analysis, researching topics related to water and sanitation, managing communications and information, updating WOPs profiles, coordinating with GWOPA members, and assisting in the administration and financial management of programs. Interns may also be tasked with finalizing papers on climate adaptation and mitigation related to water operators.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria at the time of application: be enrolled in a graduate school program (second university degree or equivalent, or higher), be in the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum Bachelor's level or equivalent), or have graduated with a Bachelor's degree, Master's, PhD, or equivalent. Candidates should be proficient in standard software applications, particularly the Microsoft Office Suite. A demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and a commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter are essential. Additionally, candidates should possess the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs, showing tolerance and understanding of differing opinions.

Educational Background:
The preferred educational background for this internship includes studies in Water and Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Urban Development, Urban Planning, Urban Environment, Public Relations, Communications Studies, Media and Communications, Journalism, International Relations, and Development Studies. Applicants must be students in the final year of their first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or enrolled in a Master's or Ph.D. program, or have completed such programs. A field of study closely related to the internship is required, and proof of enrollment or graduation must be provided.

Experience:
While professional work experience is not required for applicants to the UN Internship Programme, candidates should have a field of study that closely aligns with the internship position they are applying for. This means that relevant academic experience or coursework is essential to ensure that interns can effectively contribute to the work of GWOPA and understand the context of the projects they will be involved in.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this internship position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN language is considered desirable, which may enhance the intern's ability to communicate and collaborate within the diverse environment of the UN.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially compensated by the United Nations, and they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Those who are not citizens or permanent residents of Germany may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is crucial for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. Additionally, it is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.