Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is an organization established by the UN General Assembly with the mission to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. It serves as the focal point for all urbanization and human settlement matters within the UN system. UN-Habitat collaborates with various partners to build inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities, aiming to reduce inequality, discrimination, and poverty. The Global Water Operators’ Partnerships Alliance (GWOPA), which is part of UN-Habitat, was created in 2009 to support 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, implements strategies and programs to ensure that Water Operator’s Partnerships (WOPs) are scaled up and contribute to improved capacity and performance of water and sanitation service providers. The organization operates in various countries and has a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing global urbanization challenges.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position at UN-Habitat offers a vibrant learning environment where candidates will engage with current issues facing water and sanitation operators worldwide. Interns will explore the connections between capacity development, partnerships, and service improvements, particularly in low-income urban settings. The daily responsibilities of the intern will be tailored based on their background and the needs of the substantive area where they are placed. Interns will report directly to a professional staff member of GWOPA and work under the overall supervision of the Officer-in-Charge. This role is designed to provide hands-on experience in various thematic and operational areas of GWOPA, contributing to the organization's mission of enhancing water and sanitation services globally.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will focus on several key areas within GWOPA, including: supporting the planning, implementation, and reporting of GWOPA’s projects; developing knowledge and managing communities of practice; preparing for global outreach and learning events; updating the GWOPA Data Portal for monitoring WOPs; assisting with project budget and financial management; and preparing for significant events such as the GWOPA Assembly and World Urban Forum 202

• Specific duties may include assisting in drafting concept papers and background documents, developing project concept notes for resource mobilization, managing data and conducting research on relevant topics, and supporting communication efforts such as managing websites and drafting newsletters. The intern will also coordinate with GWOPA members on reporting and undertake research on the digitalization of WOPs, as well as assist in the administration and financial management aspects of program management.

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, Master's, or PhD degree. Candidates should be computer literate in standard software applications, particularly the Microsoft Office Suite. A demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations and a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter are essential. Additionally, candidates should have the ability to interact successfully with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs, showing a willingness to understand and tolerate differing opinions.

Educational Background:
The preferred areas of study for applicants include Water and Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Urban Development, Urban Planning, Urban Environment, Public Relations, Communications Studies, Media and Communications, Journalism, International Relations, and Development Studies. While professional work experience is not required for applicants to the UN Internship Programme, a field of study closely related to the internship is necessary. Candidates 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.

Experience:
While applicants are not required to have prior professional work experience, it is essential that their field of study is closely related to the internship they are applying for. This ensures that the intern can effectively contribute to the work of GWOPA and gain relevant experience in the field of water and sanitation.

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 international context of the UN.

Additional Notes:
Interns are not financially remunerated by the United Nations, and they are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Interns who are not citizens or permanent residents of Germany may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization. Successful candidates should discuss their specific visa requirements before accepting the internship offer. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training.