Background (UN)
The United Nations (UN) is the world’s premier intergovernmental organization, established in 1945 after World War II to maintain international peace and security. With 193 member states, the UN addresses global challenges through key bodies like the General Assembly and Security Council, while specialized agencies such as WHO, UNICEF and UNHCR tackle specific issues ranging from health to refugee protection.
Background (G.A.C)
As G.A.C , we specialize in connecting talented professionals with impactful opportunities worldwide, offering free access to a carefully curated selection of roles across all levels, from entry positions to senior leadership. Our platform keeps you informed about the latest openings in development, advocacy, and emergency response, helping you navigate the nonprofit sector with ease. Whether you’re looking to make a difference locally or globally, we provide the tools and resources to advance your career while creating meaningful change.
Details
Job Family : Programme Management
Category and Level : Internship, I-1
Duty Station : NEW YORK
Department/Office : Department of Operational Support
Date Posted : Jul 14, 2025
Deadline : Aug 7, 2025
Duration: 3-6 months.
Desired start date: September 2025.
Duties and Responsibilities
Office Background
The United Nations Department of Operational Support (DOS) plays a critical role in enabling UN Secretariat entities—including peacekeeping missions, specialized departments, and field offices—to achieve their mandates by delivering rapid, efficient, and accountable support services. Its comprehensive portfolio includes:
- Supply chain management (procurement, logistics, and asset management)
- Operational human resources (recruitment, workforce planning, and staff support)
- Healthcare services (medical administration and crisis response)
- Capacity development (training and operational readiness programs)
- Uniformed personnel support (deployment and resource coordination)
- Special situation assistance (tailored aid for high-risk or unique operational contexts)
- ICT solutions (technology infrastructure and digital transformation)
- UNHQ facilities management (maintenance, security, and administrative services)
The Office of the Under-Secretary-General (OUSG) for Operational Support serves as the central advisory and executive body for DOS leadership, ensuring strategic oversight, policy implementation, and operational efficiency.
This internship is based in the Performance and Analytics Section (PAS) within OUSG-DOS, which spearheads departmental strategy, performance measurement, data-driven decision-making, and innovation. PAS oversees:
- Strategic planning, budgeting, and progress tracking
- Advanced analytics and problem-solving initiatives
- Organizational transformation and continuous improvement efforts
Internship Structure
This is an unpaid, full-time position (part-time may be considered in exceptional cases). Interns are expected to:
- Work 35 hours per week (5 days) under staff supervision
- Adhere to the UNHQ-NY hybrid policy, with a minimum of 3 in-office days per week
- Fully remote arrangements are not permitted
Internship Duties
As a Strategic and Project Support Intern, you will function as an integral team member, contributing to high-impact projects while gaining exposure to the UN’s broader mission. Responsibilities may include:
- Strategic Initiatives: Assisting in data analysis, digital transformation, behavioral science applications, and innovation projects
- Presentation & Documentation: Preparing polished slide decks (PowerPoint), briefing materials, and talking points for leadership
- Knowledge Management: Facilitating knowledge-sharing through workshops, surveys, and best practice documentation
- Process Improvement: Supporting workflow optimization, performance metrics development, and efficiency enhancements
- Data & Analytics: Maintaining datasets, generating reports, and aiding stakeholders in evidence-based decision-making
- Research & Application: Investigating behavioral science insights to refine strategic communications and planning
This role mirrors consultancy-style work, emphasizing conceptual thinking, visual storytelling (PowerPoint), and project coordination. The internship duration ranges from 3 to 6 months, starting mid- to late September 2025.
Qualifications/Special Skills
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- Currently enrolled in/completed a graduate program (master’s degree or equivalent)
- In the final year of a bachelor’s degree program (or equivalent)
Preferred backgrounds: Data science, digital innovation, organizational psychology, behavioral economics, strategic foresight, or related fields. No prior work experience is required, but relevant coursework, technical skills, or academic projects should align with the UN’s needs.
Ideal Candidate Profile:
- A collaborative, proactive team player with awareness of trends in organizational development
- Strong interest in applying analytics and behavioral insights to real-world challenges
- Previous UN interns: Disclose the entity and dates of your prior assignment.
Languages
- Fluency in English (mandatory)
- Knowledge of another UN official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) is an asset
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About UN
The United Nations (UN) is the world’s foremost international organization, established in 1945 to maintain global peace and security following the devastation of World War II. Comprising 193 member states, the UN serves as a vital platform for international cooperation, addressing pressing challenges such as conflict resolution, human rights protection, sustainable development, humanitarian crises, and climate change.
Its core structure includes the General Assembly (representing all nations), the Security Council (responsible for peacekeeping), the Secretariat (led by the Secretary-General), and specialized agencies like UNICEF, WHO, and UNHCR. Through landmark initiatives like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement, the UN sets global standards and coordinates collective action. While sometimes constrained by political divisions, it remains the only universal forum for dialogue and crisis response, impacting millions through peacekeeping missions, aid programs, and advocacy for justice and equality.
Why choose us
The United Nations (UN) offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful global work that addresses humanity’s most pressing challenges, from peacekeeping and human rights to sustainable development and humanitarian aid. By joining the UN, you become part of a multicultural environment where you’ll collaborate with professionals from around the world, gaining invaluable diplomatic and cross-cultural skills while contributing to initiatives like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Whether through internships or long-term careers, the UN provides prestigious experience, professional growth, and the chance to work across diverse fields—including policy, technology, health, and environmental protection—in locations worldwide.
For those passionate about driving positive change on a global scale, the UN serves as an ideal platform to develop leadership skills, influence international policies, and make a lasting impact. While UN internships are often unpaid, they open doors to future opportunities within the organization and beyond, making it a compelling choice for aspiring diplomats, policymakers, and changemakers seeking purpose-driven careers at the forefront of global cooperation.
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