Transport, Logistics and Supply Chain Management Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is a part of the United Nations that focuses on trade, investment, and development issues. Established in 1964, UNCTAD aims to promote the integration of developing countries into the global economy. The organization operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering sustainable development through trade and economic policies. UNCTAD's mission is to support developing nations in achieving inclusive and sustainable economic growth, particularly in the areas of trade, investment, and technology.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is designed to provide students or recent graduates with practical experience in the field of transport, logistics, and supply chain management within the framework of the United Nations. Interns will work full-time, either in-person in Geneva or remotely, and are expected to engage in various research and technical cooperation activities. The role involves supporting the Transport Section of the Trade Logistics Branch, which focuses on enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of freight transport systems in developing countries. Interns will gain exposure to critical issues such as sustainable food supply chains, resilient maritime logistics, and the organization of international forums, thereby contributing to the UN's mission of fostering global trade and development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be involved in a wide range of activities, including: participating in meetings with supervisors and the Transport Section team; conducting desk research and preparing analytical drafts on topics related to sustainable transport and logistics; collecting and analyzing transport data, including port-call statistics; supporting the development of simulation tools for data analysis; assisting in the implementation of technical assistance projects; preparing training and workshop materials; organizing events related to the UNCTAD Global Supply Chain Forum; and managing web-based content and training materials. Interns will also be responsible for summarizing conferences and workshops, providing administrative support for project implementation, and ensuring compliance with UN regulations and directives throughout their internship.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria to apply for the internship. They should be enrolled in or have completed a graduate program or the final year of a bachelor's degree in relevant fields such as transport, logistics, supply chains, communications, economics, or statistics. Additionally, applicants should demonstrate proficiency in standard software applications, particularly Microsoft Office tools, and possess a keen interest in the work of the United Nations. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds are essential. No prior work experience is required, but relevant academic or volunteer experience is advantageous.

Educational Background:
Applicants must be pursuing or have completed a graduate school program (master's, doctoral, or equivalent) or the final academic year of a first university degree program (bachelor's or equivalent). It is crucial for candidates to provide proof of their educational qualifications and indicate their availability to start the internship. A background in fields closely related to transport, logistics, supply chains, or economics is preferred, and candidates should articulate how their studies relate to the internship's focus areas.

Experience:
While no professional work experience is required for this internship, candidates should highlight any academic, volunteer, or other relevant experiences that demonstrate their understanding of sustainable transport, logistics, and supply chain management. This could include coursework, projects, or extracurricular activities that align with the responsibilities of the internship. Interns will benefit from training and mentoring throughout their time at UNCTAD, which will help them develop their skills and knowledge in the field.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this internship, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Knowledge of French is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application. Interns will be expected to communicate effectively in English, both in writing and verbally, and any additional language skills may be beneficial in a multicultural work environment.

Additional Notes:
The internship is unpaid and requires a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week for a duration of three months. Interns are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses. For in-person internships, candidates must possess a valid visa to work in Switzerland. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates should be aware that there is no expectation of employment following the internship. Interns are also required to adhere to the UN's rules and regulations, including confidentiality and impartiality, throughout their internship.