Urban Planner and Designer Intern

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Position Title: Urban Planner and Designer Intern
Location: Kathmandu
Country: Nepal
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services) is an operational arm of the United Nations, established to support the successful implementation of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects globally. UNOPS aims to help people build better lives and assist countries in achieving sustainable development. In Nepal, UNOPS has been actively involved in reconstruction efforts post-2015 earthquake, working closely with the government and various development partners. The organization focuses on delivering projects efficiently and effectively, aligning with government priorities and contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNOPS Nepal is committed to gender, diversity, and inclusion in all its projects, and is currently engaged in various sectors including health, urban development, and climate change.

Job Overview:
The Urban Planner and Designer Intern will play a crucial role in the 'Cities 4 Women: Inclusive and Climate Resilient Urbanization in Nepal' project, which is funded by the EU and Finland. This project aims to enhance participatory urban planning processes, particularly focusing on the experiences of women and girls in urban settings. The intern will work under the supervision of the UNOPS Project Manager and will be involved in various tasks including conducting desk research, field surveys, and organizing expert consultations to prepare urban profiles. The intern will also assist in preparing maps, charts, and reports, and will support the analysis of urban planning issues. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in urban planning and design, particularly in the context of secondary cities in Nepal, while contributing to gender-sensitive approaches in urban development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks including: conducting desk research and field surveys to gather data for urban profiles; preparing maps, charts, and reports to support project analysis; documenting best practices related to public open spaces; reporting on meetings and conferences; assisting in organizing stakeholder consultations and urban design workshops; supporting project development and formulation related to urban issues; and engaging in communications and knowledge management activities. The intern will also be expected to interact continuously with colleagues, exchange information, and resolve routine administrative issues, while referring complex matters to the supervisor with recommendations for action.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should be enrolled in or have recently graduated from a university program in architecture, urban planning, or design. A focus on urban planning and the design of public open spaces is highly desirable. The intern should possess strong computer literacy, particularly in MS Office, GIS software, and design rendering software such as AutoCAD and Revit. Experience in organizing or participating in architecture and urban planning competitions, as well as published works on urban issues, will be prioritized. Fluency in English is required, and fluency in Finnish is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should be currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program in architecture, urban planning, or design. Candidates who have graduated within the last three years will also be considered. A focus on urban planning and the design of public open spaces is highly desirable, as this aligns with the project’s objectives.

Experience:
The internship is designed for individuals who are either currently enrolled in a relevant academic program or have recently graduated. While specific prior experience is not mandatory, candidates with experience in urban planning, design, or related fields will be favored. The internship provides an opportunity for exposure to urban planning and design practices in Nepal, particularly in secondary cities.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Finnish is considered an asset, which may enhance communication within the project team and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This internship is for a duration of 12 months with no possibility of extension. It is a full-time position, and international candidates are encouraged to apply. Interns will receive a monthly stipend from UNOPS, provided they are not receiving funding from other external internship programs. Additionally, UNOPS may offer a one-time travel lump sum of 500 USD. Interns are responsible for their own accommodation, travel arrangements, and obtaining necessary health insurance. The internship does not guarantee employment with UNOPS upon completion, and candidates should not expect a transition to a staff position. Applicants must submit a design portfolio and a letter of motivation, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments.