Background

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP: we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a ‘leave no one behind’ approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and inspiring stories.

UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

Background:

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) operates in over 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities and exclusion. It supports countries in developing policies, strengthening leadership and institutional capacities, fostering partnerships, and building resilience to sustain long-term development results.

UNDP has been present in Sri Lanka for over 55 years, supporting the country’s progress towards sustainable human development across economic, social, and environmental dimensions, guided by the Country Programme (2023–2027). The organization collaborates closely with the Government, civil society, private sector, and communities to identify development priorities and implement effective, inclusive solutions to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

UNDP Sri Lanka delivers its support through an integrated Country Office approach, bringing together expertise across programme and operational areas to address interconnected development challenges. Within this framework, the Climate and Environment Team (CET) leads and supports UNDP’s work on environmental and climate challenges, focusing on Natural Resource Management and Innovative Financing; Sustainable Energy, Transport and Waste Management; and Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction. The team works closely with government institutions and other partners to support national priorities, strengthen resilience, fulfil international environmental and climate commitments, and promote inclusive and sustainable green development.

Post Context:

The Climate and Environment Team has a growing portfolio of work with the Disaster Management Centre and the Disaster Management Division of the Ministry of Defence. Under this internship programme, the selected intern will be based at the Disaster Management Centre and provide day-to-day operational and coordination support to its Disaster Preparedness Division, under the direct supervision of UNDP’s Project Manager – Disaster Preparedness and Early Warning. The intern will work under the direct supervision of the Technical Specialist – CA & DRM and work closely with UNDP staff based at the Ministry of Defence. The intern will also liaise with the Director of the Disaster Preparedness Division and the Division’s staff to support its functions.

Duties and Responsibilities

Support in gathering, analyzing and maintaining data for ongoing and upcoming programs.
Assist with daily administrative tasks, including activity schedules, organizing meetings, maintaining records and supporting supervisors with documentation processes.
Contribute to the development and updating work plans, timelines and other related documentation to ensure smooth operations.
Assist in the coordination of workshops, meetings and events, including logistical arrangements, communication with participants and maintaining records of key discussions and outcomes.
Support development of knowledge products including reports, presentations and briefing materials for internal and external use. Assist in drafting proposals and other project-related documents.
Engage with team members and external stakeholders, such as government agencies or partners, to ensure effective communication and collaboration on various projects.
Assist to develop pipeline projects, concept notes and project proposals.
Monitor and track the progress of assigned projects, collecting feedback and providing updates to the team for evaluation and reporting purposes.
Support the communication team in preparing content for newsletters, social media platforms and other outreach materials.

Competencies

Strong attention to detail: Able to carefully review work and ensure accuracy in documentation and project tasks.
Adaptability: Capable of adjusting to changing requirements and working under tight deadlines in a dynamic environment.
Flexibility: Willingness to adjust to changing priorities, tasks, and work requirements, while maintaining a positive and collaborative approach.
Problem-solving skills: Ability to identify challenges and propose practical solutions in a proactive manner.
Effective communication: Demonstrates strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
Organizational skills: Excellent at managing time, prioritizing tasks, and balancing multiple responsibilities efficiently.
Analytical mindset: Ability to think critically and analyze data to support project goals and decision-making processes.
Cultural awareness: Understands and respects diverse cultural perspectives and shows sensitivity when working in a multicultural setting.

Required Qualifications – Education

Applicants to the UNDP internship programme must at the time of application meet one of the following requirements:

Be enrolled in a postgraduate degree programme (such as a master’s programme, or higher);
Be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree programme (such as bachelor’s degree or equivalent);
Have recently graduated with a university degree (as defined in (a) and (b) above) and, if selected, must start the internship within one-year of graduation;
Be enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program and undertake the internship as part of this program.

Family Relationship

A person who is the child or sibling of an UNDP staff member is not eligible to apply for an internship at UNDP. An applicant who bears any other family relationship with a UNDP staff member may be engaged as an intern, provided that they must neither be assigned to the same work unit of the staff member nor be placed under the direct or indirect supervision of the staff member.

Medical Insurance

Interns are responsible for securing adequate medical insurance for the duration of their internship with UNDP and must provide a medical certificate of good health prior to starting the internship. UNDP will not reimburse the medical insurance of the intern. Any costs arising from accidents and illness incurred during an internship assignment will be the responsibility of the intern.

Stipends, Insurance and Interns’ expenses

Costs and arrangements for travel, visas, passports, accommodation and living expenses are the responsibility of: (a) The nominating institution, related institution or government, which may provide the required financial assistance to its students; or (b) The intern.

Disclaimer

Important information for US Permanent Residents ('Green Card' holders)

Under US immigration law, acceptance of a staff position with UNDP, an international organization, may have significant implications for US Permanent Residents. UNDP advises applicants for all professional level posts that they must relinquish their US Permanent Resident status and accept a G-4 visa, or have submitted a valid application for US citizenship prior to commencement of employment.

UNDP is not in a position to provide advice or assistance on applying for US citizenship and therefore applicants are advised to seek the advice of competent immigration lawyers regarding any applications.

Applicant information about UNDP rosters

Note: UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

Non-discrimination

UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, sexual harassment, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.

UNDP is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer that does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.

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