Research, Project Management, Content Development, E-learning Development

The Social Development Programme Unit (SDPU) of UNITAR provides training to local actors to enhance their capacity to achieve sustainable development in their areas of influence, with a particular focus on the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2030. At the core of the training activities are workshops and seminars, many of which are implemented through a network of regional training centres for local authorities and leaders – the CIFAL Global Network – as well as e-learning courses. In addition, there are training activities directly implemented by the SDPU team.

Under the direct supervision of the Director, the Trainee shall undertake tasks related to communications and further enhancement of the programme’s thematic expertise. This includes the provision of assistance in designing and/or rolling-out both face-to-face and online training activities, as well as organizing knowledge-sharing events and overseeing social media presence.

• Support the update of selected existing courses on sustainable development-related topics and assist in designing, developing, delivering, and monitoring training activities both online and in-person
• Support the promotion of courses for increased outreach to beneficiaries
• Making updates to the Global Water Academy website as needed
• Assist with the evaluation of the selected courses
• Support the team in internal and external communications-related matters
• Support the team in identifying new calls and drafting proposals

• Enhance professional skills in project management and content development
• Gain hands-on experience in working in an UN agency
• Gain deeper understanding of UNITAR and its work.
• Enhance their creative and logical skills in assisting in learning and training events.
• Develop a professional network.
• Enhance their social and teamwork skills to adapt to change and embrace diversity, especially with colleagues, participants, and stakeholders from diverse background

The Trainee will report to Alex Mejia, Director, Division for People

A monthly stipend of CHF 900.

• Assistance with responsibilities is given in accordance with given deadlines and the quality standards of the Institute
• Positive feedback from colleagues and partners
• Input into programme proposals and concept documents is provided in a timely manner

• All deliverables are delivered within an agreed timeframe.
• All deliverables are of high quality.
• Timely and quality of interactions with other colleagues.

Professionalism: Ability to follow up on project work-plan. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations; takes responsibility for incorporating gender and inclusivity perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women.

Planning and organizing: Excellent planning, organizational skills, attention to detail, ability to prioritize own work, delivering results and quality work, including when working under pressure.

Communications: Excellent communication skills (spoken, written and presentation), including the ability to draft/edit a variety of written documents. Ability to evaluate information needs and to provide appropriate and targeted information accordingly.

Technology awareness: Fully proficient in computer skills, with ability to use a variety of software and applications.

Teamwork: Strong interpersonal skills; ability to deal effectively with multiple constituencies and to establish and maintain effective working relations in a multicultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

Education: Applicants must be enrolled in an undergraduate/graduate/postgraduate degree (within either communication, public relations, marketing, or international relations, business administration or related field), or be a recent graduate of the aforementioned (if selected, they must commence the traineeship within two years of graduation).

Languages: Fluency in oral and written English is essential. Knowledge of another official UN language would be an advantage.

Other: Excellent computer skills (Microsoft Office Suite) are required. Proficiency in writing, editing and presentation skills.