Graphic Design Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The internship is offered by the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), which is a regional commission of the United Nations established to promote economic and social development in the Arab region. ESCWA was founded in 1973 and operates in 17 member countries across the Middle East and North Africa. The organization focuses on various areas including sustainable development, social justice, and economic integration, and aims to support member states in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Graphic Design Intern will be part of the Conference Management Services (CMS) within ESCWA, specifically working under the supervision of the Senior Designer. The intern's primary role will be to assist the design team with various daily tasks that contribute to the overall mission of ESCWA. This includes creating visual materials that communicate important information and policies effectively. The intern will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of design projects, which will enhance their skills and provide valuable experience in a professional setting. The internship is expected to last for two months, during which the intern will gain insights into the workings of the United Nations and the importance of design in communication and advocacy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a range of tasks that support the design team at ESCWA. These duties include assisting in the design and layout of various informational materials such as policy briefs, booklets, flyers, roll-up banners, and social media posts. The intern will also create logos, infographics, illustrations, and drawings as needed. Additionally, the intern will assist in developing scripts, mood boards, and storyboards for animated short films. Collaboration with authors and language colleagues will be essential to ensure that project specifications and requirements are met. The intern may also be required to perform other related tasks as assigned by the supervisor, providing a comprehensive learning experience in graphic design within an international organization.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this internship, applicants must meet specific criteria set by the United Nations Internship Programme. Candidates should be enrolled in a graduate school program or in the final academic year of a first university degree program, or have already graduated with a relevant degree. Proficiency in standard software applications is required, particularly in Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop. Knowledge of Adobe After Effects and Premiere is considered an asset, as is familiarity with Microsoft Word and Excel. Furthermore, applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in the work of the United Nations and possess the ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a relevant educational background, which includes being enrolled in a graduate program or having completed a university degree. This educational requirement ensures that interns have the necessary theoretical knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to the design team. The focus on higher education reflects the organization's commitment to fostering a professional environment where interns can learn and grow.

Experience:
No previous work experience is required for this internship, making it an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in graphic design within an international context. The emphasis is on the candidate's educational background and skills rather than prior work history, allowing for a diverse range of applicants.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is required for this position, as these are the working languages of ESCWA. Knowledge of French is desirable but not mandatory. Fluency is defined as being able to speak, read, write, and understand the language at a high level, while knowledge indicates a confident ability in at least two of the four language skills.

Additional Notes:
This internship is unpaid, and interns are responsible for their own travel, visa, accommodation, and living expenses. Candidates must provide proof of valid medical insurance coverage for the duration of the internship and submit a medical certificate of good health prior to starting. The position allows for flexible working arrangements, contingent upon agreement with the receiving entity, but interns must commit to at least two months of full-time work. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any requests for personal financial information.