Praktikant*in im Internationalen Smart Cities Netzwerk

Job Posting Organization:
The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) is a federal enterprise that has been supporting the global implementation of development policy goals for over 50 years. With a mission to improve the quality of life for all and provide meaningful tasks for its employees, GIZ collaborates with partner organizations in 120 countries, engaging in a variety of projects aimed at sustainable development. The organization emphasizes the importance of creating a positive impact in the world while fostering personal development for its staff.

Job Overview:
The position of Praktikant*in in the International Smart Cities Network 2 focuses on promoting the integration of digital solutions into citizen-centered urban development processes. The intern will support the global exchange of successful practices and experiences among urban development actors. The network currently includes core member countries such as Brazil, Mexico, Peru, India, and Germany, which are involved in network activities at both national and municipal levels. The role involves contributing to the continuous sharing of expertise and experiences in the field of Smart Cities, facilitating a collaborative approach to the digital transformation of cities for sustainable and integrated urban development on a global scale.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will assist in the content and organizational development and promotion of the International Smart Cities Network, fulfilling its secretarial functions. Responsibilities include supporting the preparation and follow-up of national/international (digital) conferences and professional events, contributing to the creation of documents for external representation, internet/intranet contributions, newsletters, podcasts, and presentations. The intern will also assist in drafting technical contributions to the normative debate on the role of Smart Cities, based on relevant current technical and political frameworks. Additionally, the intern will help analyze technical and legal issues related to urban data platforms, interoperability of digital solutions, data sharing, data sovereignty in cloud solutions, and the use of open-source software. The role also includes providing technical support for studies focusing on the technical and legal aspects of digital solutions in urban development.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a completed university degree (Bachelor) in urban planning/regional development, digitalization, or municipal administration. Proven experience in the fields of 'Smart Cities' (including technical solutions) and 'international urban development policy' is required. Experience in the conception and execution of professional events and event management is essential. Candidates should demonstrate digital competencies in Smart Cities, Open Data, governance, data protection, and cybersecurity. Strong coordination skills and sensitivity to complex processes and interest constellations are necessary, along with proficiency in MS Office products, social media applications, and Adobe Creative Cloud products. Native German language skills and proven negotiation-level English proficiency are mandatory, while additional language skills are advantageous.

Educational Background:
A completed university degree (Bachelor) in relevant fields such as urban planning, regional development, digitalization, or municipal administration is required for this position. This educational background ensures that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to contribute effectively to the Smart Cities Network.

Experience:
Candidates should have demonstrable experience in the areas of Smart Cities and international urban development policy. This includes experience in organizing and managing professional events, which is crucial for the role. The intern should also have practical experience with digital solutions and their application in urban contexts, as well as familiarity with the technical and legal frameworks governing these areas.

Languages:
Fluency in German is required, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Candidates must also possess negotiation-level proficiency in English, which is essential for international collaboration. Additional language skills are considered a plus and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The internship is only available to individuals who are currently enrolled in a study program, are in a training program that requires an internship, or have graduated no more than six months prior to the start of the internship. The internship period is from July 1, 2025, to November 30, 2025, and it is a full-time position. The monthly intern compensation is €2,205.04 (gross). GIZ is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from individuals with disabilities. For any content-related inquiries, candidates can contact Mr. Sailer at peter.sailer@giz.de.