Project Support Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address development challenges. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, valuing the multiplicity of nations and cultures in which it operates. UNDP is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all personnel can contribute to its mission, particularly encouraging applications from marginalized and underserved populations. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination, ensuring rigorous background checks for selected candidates.

Job Overview:
The Project Support Intern will play a crucial role in supporting the UNDP Economic Resilience Programme (ERP), which focuses on enhancing sustainable and inclusive economic development. The intern will assist in implementing various business development tools aimed at strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and their ecosystems. This position involves working closely with the Project Manager to facilitate project activities, apply business support methodologies, and engage with various stakeholders, including municipalities, businesses, and development partners. The intern will also contribute to data collection, reporting, and communication efforts, ensuring that the ERP's objectives are met effectively. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in project management and economic development within a reputable international organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks under the direct supervision of the UNDP Project Manager, including:

• Supporting the Project Manager in implementing project activities and ERP interventions.
• Assisting in the application of business support tools in accordance with programme methodologies.
• Coordinating and facilitating the participation of institutions involved in the ERP.
• Organizing and implementing training sessions and providing follow-up support to beneficiary businesses.
• Interacting with consultants in the field to track progress and provide advisory support.
• Coordinating activities with municipalities, beneficiary businesses, consultants, institutions, and development partners.
• Supporting data collection, reporting, documentation, and maintenance of programme monitoring systems.
• Assisting in outreach and communication activities with participating companies and organizations.
• Preparing social media posts, communication materials, and programme brochures. 1
• Maintaining and updating programme administrative records and filing systems. 1
• Compiling and updating information related to programme activities and beneficiary progress. 1
• Performing additional tasks as requested by the Project Manager.

Required Qualifications:
To be eligible for the internship, applicants must meet one of the following criteria: (a) Be enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme (master’s or higher); (b) Be in the final academic year of a first university degree programme (bachelor’s or equivalent); (c) Have recently graduated with a university degree and must start the internship within one year of graduation; (d) Be enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program and undertake the internship as part of this program. The field of study should be in Business Administration, Public Administration, Economics, Law, or a related discipline.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a relevant educational background, which includes being enrolled in or having completed a degree in fields such as Business Administration, Public Administration, Economics, Law, or a related discipline. The internship is designed for individuals who are either currently studying or have recently graduated, ensuring that they can apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting.

Experience:
While prior experience is not mandatory, candidates with previous experience in providing administrative, operational, and coordination support for project implementation activities will have an advantage. This includes experience in supporting meetings, field activities, communications, reporting, and stakeholder engagement processes. Demonstrated interest in building effective working relationships with various stakeholders, including municipalities and MSMEs, is also beneficial. Experience with national or international organizations in a similar role is highly desirable, as is familiarity with preparing administrative documents and using office software packages.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as well as fluency in either Albanian or Serbian. These language skills are essential for effective communication with stakeholders and for the successful execution of project activities.

Additional Notes:
The internship is expected to last for a duration of six months, with the possibility of extending up to nine months if it aligns with academic requirements. Interns are responsible for securing their own medical insurance for the duration of the internship and must provide a self-certification of good health before starting. The stipend will be paid monthly and will be pro-rated for part-time arrangements. Interns are not considered staff members and should not represent UNDP in any official capacity. There is no expectation of employment with UNDP following the internship. Applicants must submit a letter of motivation, a letter from their university confirming enrollment, and other relevant documentation as specified in the application process.