Intern

Job Posting Organization:
The Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) is a global program that was established to address the financial challenges associated with biodiversity management. It was initiated in 2012 and has since expanded its operations to 41 countries. The mission of BIOFIN is to develop and implement methodologies that measure biodiversity expenditure levels, assess future financial needs, and design comprehensive financial plans that enhance biodiversity financing. The initiative aims to reduce harmful expenditures and improve the financial effectiveness of biodiversity management. BIOFIN has undergone two phases, with the first phase focusing on assessments and initial implementations, while the second phase aims to complete the design and implementation of priority finance solutions and expand knowledge management platforms.

Job Overview:
The intern position at BIOFIN involves providing daily support to the National Coordinator of BIOFIN China and the Project Manager of the Shandong team. The intern will assist in delivering key components of biodiversity finance, including the Biodiversity Finance Policy and Institutional Review (PIR), Biodiversity Expenditure Review (BER), Financial Needs Assessment (FNA), and the Biodiversity Finance Plan (BFP). The role requires supporting research into current biodiversity issues and contributing to reports and publications that enhance UNDP BIOFIN's advocacy efforts. The intern will also be involved in logistical arrangements for meetings, taking minutes, and learning about UNDP's role in supporting biodiversity initiatives in China. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage with key cooperation programs and gain hands-on experience in project formulation and implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of administrative and back-office support tasks under the supervision of the National Coordinator of BIOFIN China. Key responsibilities include facilitating procurement processes, tracking financial and administrative activities, supporting communication and outreach efforts, and liaising with UNDP China and the global BIOFIN administrative team. The intern will assist in managing project budgets, ensuring timely execution of project activities, organizing meetings and consultations, and documenting meeting outcomes. Additionally, the intern will support the Monitoring and Evaluation of projects, draft progress reports, and assist in the formulation of pipeline projects. The role may also involve telecommuting tasks, making it adaptable to remote work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in English, environmental science, or related fields. Previous internship experience in other organizations or UN agencies is preferred. Candidates should be in their final year of a Bachelor’s program, within one year after graduation, or enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program. Strong communication skills in both Chinese and English are essential, along with excellent partnership-building abilities and conflict resolution skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other professional office software is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as English, environmental science, or related disciplines. Candidates should either be in their final year of study or have graduated within the past year. Enrollment in a postgraduate professional traineeship program is also acceptable, provided the internship is part of that program.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have some level of experience, preferably through internships in related fields or organizations. This experience should demonstrate the ability to work effectively in a team, manage deadlines, and deliver quality results. Familiarity with biodiversity finance or environmental management is advantageous but not mandatory.

Languages:
Fluency in both Chinese and English is mandatory for this position, with strong oral and written communication skills. The ability to build partnerships and negotiate effectively with diverse stakeholders is also essential. Additional language skills may be considered a plus but are not required.

Additional Notes:
The internship conditions stipulate that interns must provide proof of enrollment in a health insurance plan and a medical certificate of good health before starting. Interns will receive a monthly stipend and are entitled to 1.5 days of leave per month. They are responsible for their own travel arrangements, including visas and accommodations, and any costs incurred during the internship. Interns must not apply for or hold any staff positions during their internship period and are expected to fulfill the terms of their internship without interruption.