UNEP Programme Management Intern - CITES MIKE Program

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and has been instrumental in establishing international environmental norms and standards. The organization was established in 1972 and operates in over 150 countries, employing thousands of professionals dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it works with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The UNEP Programme Management Intern will be part of the MIKE Unit, which focuses on monitoring the illegal killing of elephants and ensuring the sustainable management of elephant populations. The intern will work under the direct supervision of the Programme Management Officer and will assist in various tasks related to the MIKE Programme. This includes planning, researching, and producing communications and multimedia materials on wildlife conservation topics, particularly those related to the MIKE Program. The intern will also engage with Elephant Range States and support the organization of meetings, workshops, and events that are crucial for the effective implementation of the MIKE Programme. This internship provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in wildlife conservation and project management within a global environmental framework.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: assisting in organizing meetings, workshops, and events related to the MIKE Programme; developing and adapting MIKE-related materials for effective delivery; maintaining communication with Elephant Range States; taking minutes and preparing documentation for meetings; compiling and organizing MIKE data on illegal killing trends; preparing summaries and briefing notes based on MIKE reports; supporting document archiving and organization of files on shared platforms; assisting with logistical and administrative preparations for missions and events; maintaining updated planning tools and internal tracking systems; and performing other tasks as assigned by the supervisor. This role is integral to ensuring the smooth operation of the MIKE Programme and contributes to the broader goals of wildlife conservation.

Required Qualifications:
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements at the time of application: (a) be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree programme (minimum bachelor's level or equivalent); (b) be enrolled in a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent or higher); or (c) have graduated with a university degree. A preferred area of study includes Wildlife Conservation, Environmental Management, Project Management, Business Management, or any related field. Candidates must demonstrate a strong interest and motivation to work in wildlife conservation, particularly in elephant conservation. While professional work experience is not required, a relevant field of study is essential for this internship.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes being a student in the final year of a first university degree (bachelor or equivalent), or being enrolled in a Master’s or Ph.D. Programme, or having completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. Programme. Applicants must provide proof of their current academic status or degree completion as part of their application. This ensures that candidates possess the necessary theoretical knowledge and understanding of the environmental and conservation issues relevant to the internship.

Experience:
While applicants to the UN Internship Programme are not required to have professional work experience, it is essential that they have a field of study closely related to the internship. This means that candidates should ideally have some academic or practical exposure to wildlife conservation, environmental management, or related fields, which will enable them to contribute effectively to the MIKE Programme and understand the complexities of the issues at hand.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French or Spanish is considered desirable, as it can enhance communication with a broader range of stakeholders. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas: reading, writing, speaking, and understanding, while knowledge is defined as a rating of 'confident' in two of the four areas. This linguistic capability is crucial for effective collaboration and communication within the international context of the internship.

Additional Notes:
This internship is expected to last for six months and is not financially remunerated by the United Nations. Interns are responsible for their own costs related to travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses. Those who are not citizens or permanent residents of Kenya may need to obtain the appropriate visa and work authorization before starting the internship. It is important for successful candidates to discuss their specific visa requirements prior to accepting the internship offer. Additionally, applicants should be aware that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.