UNDP Internship Program

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to empower lives and build resilient nations. The organization focuses on various areas including climate change, sustainable development, and disaster resilience, ensuring that no one is left behind in the development process. UNDP Bhutan specifically implements initiatives that enhance climate resilience and disaster preparedness in the region, contributing to the overall mission of sustainable development in Bhutan.

Job Overview:
The UNDP Internship Program in Bhutan offers a unique opportunity for individuals to gain hands-on experience in the field of climate resilience and sustainable urban development. Interns will be stationed at the Project Management Unit (PMU) within the Department of Human Settlement, Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. They will play a crucial role in supporting two flagship initiatives: the Enhancing Climate Resilience of Urban Landscapes and Communities in the Thimphu–Paro Region (ECRUL) and the Disaster Resilient Infrastructure Project (DRIP). The interns will work closely with UNDP staff, government counterparts, and various stakeholders to ensure effective project implementation. This position is ideal for those looking to develop their skills in project management, research, and data analysis while contributing to meaningful environmental initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks under the supervision of the Project Manager and designated supervisor at the PMU. Key responsibilities include:

• Documentation Support: Conducting desk research on climate-resilient urban development, organizing project-related documents, and assisting in the review and formatting of technical documents.
• Logistics Support for Meetings & Workshops: Planning and coordinating logistics for project workshops, preparing meeting notes and minutes, and supporting stakeholder coordination.
• Data Collection & Analysis: Gathering data from field offices and project partners, assisting in data entry and preliminary analysis, and maintaining project data systems.
• Other Administrative & Coordination Support: Providing administrative assistance, coordinating between various stakeholders, and supporting ad-hoc project tasks as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suites (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with online meeting tools such as Zoom and MS Teams. Strong research, writing, and organizational skills are essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively in a team setting. Attention to detail and good interpersonal communication skills in both Dzongkha and English are also required. A knowledge or interest in climate change, sustainable cities, and infrastructure development will be considered an advantage.

Educational Background:
Applicants should preferably possess a first-level degree or be pursuing studies in relevant fields such as Economics, Public Policy, Governance, Development Studies, Business Administration, Sustainable Development, Environmental Science, Tourism, or Social Sciences. Candidates must meet one of the following criteria at the time of application: be enrolled in a degree program, be in the final academic year of a first university degree program, or have recently graduated with a university degree, starting the internship within one year of graduation. Additionally, applicants must be Bhutanese nationals.

Experience:
The internship is designed for individuals who are either currently enrolled in a degree program or have recently graduated. Therefore, prior professional experience is not a strict requirement, but candidates should demonstrate relevant academic knowledge and skills that align with the responsibilities of the internship.

Languages:
Fluency in Dzongkha and English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context or project stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position based in Thimphu, Bhutan. The duration of the internship is typically determined based on the academic requirements of the intern's degree program. Interns will receive valuable experience and exposure to international development practices, and they will be expected to adhere to UNDP's standards of conduct, including a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment and discrimination. The organization encourages applications from individuals belonging to marginalized or excluded populations.