Communications and Innovation Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established to help countries achieve sustainable development goals. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, focusing on ending poverty, reducing inequalities, and protecting the planet. The organization emphasizes workforce diversity and encourages applications from individuals of various backgrounds, including minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities. UNDP China has been active for over four decades, collaborating with the Chinese government to integrate sustainable development goals into national policies and practices. The organization engages with various stakeholders, including government ministries, private sector partners, and civil society, to promote inclusive and sustainable development in China. UNDP China’s mission aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, aiming to ensure that improvements in human well-being remain within ecological boundaries while fostering resilience and institutional capabilities.

Job Overview:
The Communications and Innovation Intern will work closely with the Communications, Innovation and Partnerships Team at UNDP China, under the supervision of the Innovation and Communications Analyst. The intern will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of UNDP China’s communications strategy, particularly focusing on initiatives related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and innovation projects. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage in various aspects of communications, including social media management, content creation, and project support. The intern will assist in developing communication materials, managing social media platforms, and tracking the performance of communications campaigns. Additionally, the intern will support project implementation by maintaining communication with stakeholders, organizing events, and contributing to the development of new project ideas. This role is designed for individuals who are motivated to work in an international organization and are eager to contribute to meaningful development initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Communications and Social Media Support (60%): The intern will assist in implementing the Country Office communications strategy, particularly for SDG-related initiatives and innovation projects. Responsibilities include creating digital content for social media campaigns, drafting posts, preparing visuals, collecting stories, and exploring creative formats. The intern will help develop communication materials such as concept notes, background briefs, press releases, infographics, social media assets, and video scripts. Additionally, the intern will support the management of UNDP China’s social media platforms and website, as well as collect communications data and conduct basic analysis to evaluate campaign performance.
• Support Project Implementation (30%): The intern will monitor and track innovation project progress by maintaining communication with stakeholders, assisting with risk tracking, and preparing project updates and meeting notes. Administrative and logistical support will be provided to ensure smooth project implementation, including organizing events, supporting procurement processes, and arranging travel. The intern will also assist with financial and operational tasks, such as budget monitoring and ensuring compliance with UNDP rules. Furthermore, the intern will contribute to the development of new project ideas and support knowledge-sharing efforts by documenting lessons learned and good practices.
• Other (10%): The intern will support other ad hoc activities as needed, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to engage in various tasks.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements: (a) Be enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme (such as a master’s programme, or higher); (b) Be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree programme (such as bachelor’s degree 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. A major in international relations, social sciences, journalism, communications, marketing, or any related field is desirable. Candidates should possess good analytical skills, effective communication abilities, and a goal-oriented mindset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes enrollment in a postgraduate degree programme or being in the final year of a bachelor’s degree programme. Recent graduates are also eligible to apply, provided they can start the internship within one year of graduation. Relevant fields of study include international relations, social sciences, journalism, communications, marketing, or related disciplines. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of development communication and project implementation.

Experience:
Candidates should have experience in drafting audience-targeted content and prior experience with project implementation and operational support is an advantage. Experience working with international organizations, public sector institutions, or non-profits is preferred. Knowledge or experience in organizing events, workshops, or conferences is also desirable. Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite and social media management is essential, along with skills in content creation and analysis.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in both Mandarin and English are required for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication within the team and with external stakeholders. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The internship is subject to UNDP's internship policy, which includes provisions for stipends based on financial support from sponsors. Interns are responsible for obtaining necessary visas and arranging travel to and from the duty station. Costs related to travel, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the intern or their sponsoring institution. Interns must secure adequate medical insurance for the duration of their internship and provide proof of good health prior to starting. UNDP does not reimburse medical insurance costs and accepts no responsibility for personal effects during the internship. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds, ensuring equal opportunity in the recruitment process.