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.

As the knowledge frontier organization for sustainable development in the UN Development System, UNDP serves as the integrator for collective action to realize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Its work is carried out at the HQ, Regional and Country Office levels, forming a contiguous spectrum of local knowledge to cutting-edge global perspectives. Since 1973, UNDP has been a key development partner to the Royal Government of Bhutan, supporting the country's development priorities as articulated in its Five-Year Plans and Bhutan's broader vision for sustainable and inclusive growth. The Country Office works across governance, health, environment, and digital innovation, partnering with ministries and national institutions to deliver results aligned with both national development goals and the SDGs.
UNDP delivers integrated development solutions driven by country priorities and its Strategic Plan 2026–2029. Its four strategic objectives — prosperity for all, effective governance, crisis resilience, and a healthy planet — define its strategic direction, powered by three accelerators: digital and artificial intelligence (AI) transformation, gender equality, and sustainable finance. At the Country Office, the Environment and Livelihoods Unit leads the design, implementation, and monitoring of projects related to environment, climate resilience, and livelihoods. The Inclusive Governance Unit supports initiatives that strengthen governance, institutional capacity, and public sector innovation.
The Strategic Planning and Partnerships Unit ensures that all activities contribute to achieving desired results — outputs, outcomes, and impacts — while leading external and internal communications, visibility, and knowledge products for the Country Office's programmes and projects. The Operations Unit is responsible for sound financial management, procurement, human resources, and compliance in support of the Country Programme. The Economist and Policy Advisor generates economic analysis and policy recommendations to strengthen development planning and accelerate progress towards the SDGs.

This Terms of Reference consolidates internship opportunities available across the Country Office, wherein a total of six interns will be recruited and assigned across the Environment and Livelihoods Portfolio, Governance and Advocacy Portfolio, Communications Team (under Strategic Planning and Partnerships Unit), and Finance Team (Operations Unit). Applicants are encouraged to indicate in their cover letter the specific position or team they are applying for.

Duties and Responsibilities

A. Research and Documentation Support
• Conduct desk research on topics related to climate resilience, sustainable development, governance, digital transformation, public finance, communications, and project-specific thematic areas.
• Compile, organize, and maintain project documents, records, and knowledge resources.
• Assist in drafting, formatting, and reviewing reports, presentations, briefing notes, and other project documentation.
B. Meeting, Workshop, and Event Support
• Support the planning, logistics, and coordination of workshops, trainings, consultations, field missions, and stakeholder meetings.
• Prepare meeting agendas, minutes, attendance records, and follow-up action trackers.
• Provide administrative and logistical support during events and project activities.
C. Data Management and Monitoring Support
• Assist in data collection, entry, compilation, and basic analysis.
• Support maintenance of databases, document repositories, and project records.
• Assist in tracking workplan activities, deliverables, expenditures, and project progress.
D. Financial and Administrative Support
• Assist in processing and verifying financial transactions, vouchers, and payment requests.
• Support budget monitoring, expenditure tracking, account reconciliations, and financial reporting.
• Maintain financial records and support audit, budget revision, and year-end processes.
• Provide general administrative support, including filing, correspondence, and coordination with partners and stakeholders.
E. Communications and Knowledge Management Support
• Assist in developing content for website, social media, newsletters, reports, and other communication products.
• Support the design and production of knowledge and visibility materials in line with UNDP branding guidelines.
• Support website and social media management.
Document project events, workshops, and field visits through photographs, stories, and other communication assets.
• Support media relations and monitoring, website updates, and public outreach activities.
F. Other Responsibilities
• Perform any other duties and tasks assigned by the supervisor in support of programmes and operations.

Competencies

Skills and Competencies
• Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to gather, synthesize, and present information effectively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Dzongkha.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in data collection, data management, and basic quantitative and qualitative analysis.
• Ability to prepare reports, presentations, communication materials, and other documentation to a high standard.
• Strong numerical skills and accuracy, particularly for finance-related assignments.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information responsibly.
• Demonstrated interest in sustainable development and the work of UNDP, including areas such as governance, environment, climate resilience, health, digital transformation, finance, and communications.
• Curiosity, creativity, initiative, and a willingness to learn.
• Positive and constructive attitude, openness to feedback, and adaptability to changing priorities.
• Sensitivity and respect for cultural, gender, religious, racial, nationality, and age diversity.
V. IT Skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suites (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) with strong Excel skills an advantage.
• Familiarity with online meeting tools (Zoom, MS Teams) and Google Workspace.
• Familiarity with graphic design or photo/video editing tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Suite) is an advantage.
• Familiarity with social media platforms and content management systems.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

Candidates must, at the time of application, meet one of the following requirements:
a) Be enrolled in a degree programme, such as a bachelor’s programme or higher.
b) Be enrolled in the final academic year of a first university degree programme, such as a bachelor’s degree or equivalent;
c) Have recently graduated with a university degree and, if selected, must start the internship within one year of graduation;
Applicants should be pursuing or have recently completed a degree in a relevant field, including:
• Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, Environmental Studies, Environmental Science, Agricultural and Forestry Science, Development Studies, Public Policy, Geography, Economics, Governance, Public Administration, International Development, Public Health, Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Communications, Journalism, Media Studies, Public Relations, English, or other related disciplines.
Applicants must be a national candidate (Bhutanese).
Preference may be given to candidates whose academic background aligns closely with the requirements of the specific internship position for which they will be assigned to.

Experience:

<Experience Details here>

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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