Youth Innovation Hub Project Assistant

Youth Innovation Hub Project Assistant

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

September 1, 2026August 26, 2026China
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the global development network of the United Nations, established to advocate for change and connect countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build better lives. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries, focusing on solutions to global and national development challenges. In China, UNDP assists in integrating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into development decisions, promoting a transition to an inclusive, low-carbon economy, protecting biodiversity, and enhancing China’s international development cooperation to advance global progress on the SDGs and the Paris Climate Agreement.

Job Overview:
The Youth Innovation Hub Project Assistant will be based at the UNDP-Tsinghua Youth Innovation Hub Project Management Office in Shenzhen, China. This role aligns with the UNDP Youth Strategy, which aims to support youth development as a significant contribution to sustainable development. The assistant will play a crucial role in implementing a multi-year Youth Project designed to empower youth in achieving the SDGs. The project is a collaborative effort involving UNDP China, the China International Center for Economic and Technical Exchanges (CICETE), Tsinghua University, and the Shenzhen Futian District People's Government. The Youth Innovation Hub is the first UNDP SDG Innovation Lab in China dedicated to youth innovation and entrepreneurship, aiming to create an inclusive environment for youth to thrive and contribute to sustainable development. The assistant will be responsible for project planning, implementation, and monitoring, ensuring that the project meets its objectives and delivers impactful results.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Assist in the implementation of the UNDP SDG Innovation Pilot Project on Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship by supporting project planning and execution, including the development of Concept Notes, Annual Work Plans, and Terms of References.
  • Design and support the implementation of project activities, ensuring timely delivery from vendors and monitoring the quality of project execution.
  • Prepare timely financial reports and expenditure plans, and develop an annual work plan framework for regular monitoring and evaluation of project outputs and results.
  • Promote communication among project partners and participate in project activities, maintaining regular reporting mechanisms and communication with stakeholders regarding project financial management.
  • Develop and implement a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) framework to ensure effective tracking of project progress and outcomes.
  • Facilitate the management of knowledge products and support multilateral knowledge sharing and learning by collecting and analyzing relevant data, and organizing international conferences and forums for knowledge exchange.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess strong organizational and communication skills, with a commitment to teamwork and respect for diversity. A genuine commitment to the principles of voluntary engagement, including solidarity and self-reliance, is essential. The candidate should demonstrate professionalism and integrity in all aspects of their work, as well as a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as international development, social sciences, or project management is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in youth development or sustainable development would be an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 1-2 years of experience in project management, preferably in the context of youth development or sustainable development initiatives. Experience working with international organizations or NGOs is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in Mandarin is highly desirable. Knowledge of additional languages would be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Shenzhen, China. The contract duration and specific compensation details will be provided upon selection. The role may involve occasional travel within China for project-related activities. Candidates should be prepared to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to a collaborative team environment.