JOB DESCRIPTION

Background Information – Job-specific

UNOPS’s mission is to help people in need by strengthening the capacity of the United Nations, governments and other partners to deliver infrastructure, procurement and project management services sustainably and effectively.

Within these three core areas of expertise, the organization provides its partners with transactional, advisory, and implementation services for projects ranging from the construction of schools and hospitals to the procurement of goods and services and the training of local workers. UNOPS works closely with governments and communities to ensure the economic, social, and environmental sustainability of the projects it supports, with a particular focus on strengthening national capacities.

UNOPS operates in some of the world’s most challenging contexts and its vision is to improve sustainable implementation practices in development, humanitarian assistance and peacebuilding, while consistently meeting or exceeding the expectations of its partners.

The UNOPS Project Office in the Central African Republic (CAR), integrated into the CAMCO regional hub, is experiencing dynamic growth in its activities. With a team of more than 100 national and international staff deployed throughout the country, the office currently manages an active portfolio of more than USD 100 million. This extensive operational presence enables effective implementation of interventions, even in areas with limited access or instability.
The office currently oversees seven projects covering various sectors: public infrastructure (roads, bridges, buildings), post-conflict stabilization, community reintegration, social protection, health, local governance, and peacebuilding. These projects are implemented in close collaboration with national authorities and technical and financial partners, with a focus on impact and sustainability. At the same time, the office is developing new initiatives in response to national priorities and needs identified on the ground. To this end, it draws on UNOPS expertise in infrastructure, procurement, and complex project management in fragile contexts.

Functional Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the Partnership Analyst, and the general direction of the UNOPS RCA Country Manager, the role of the “Communications Intern” is to contribute to activities aimed at developing communications for UNOPS RCA.

Among the tasks assigned to the Intern:

Contribute to the visibility of the office through social media, particularly Twitter and Facebook.

Participate in the collection and writing of “human interest stories” to highlight the impact of UNOPS support on beneficiary populations.

Participate in inter-agency activities of the United Nations system (UNS) in the CAR.

Contribute to internal communication initiatives to ensure a constant exchange of information.

Contribute to the preparation of communication documents and products.

More specifically, the communications intern will have the following responsibilities:

1. Contribute to the visibility of the UNOPS RCA office through digital social media, particularly Twitter and Facebook.

Support the design of various publications relating to projects implemented by UNOPS RCA.

Provide engaging posts, videos and infographics for UNOPS RCA office Twitter and Facebook posts.

2. Participate in the collection and writing of “human interest stories” in order to highlight the impact of UNOPS support on beneficiary populations

Contribute to the development of creative and high-quality audiovisual content for UNOPS projects, with a focus on beneficiary impact.

Participate in the creation of thematic audiovisual content, highlighting UNOPS’ contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals in CAR.

3. Participate in inter-agency activities of the United Nations system in the CAR.

Participate in and contribute to the activities of the United Nations Communications Group.

Where possible, ensure and promote media coverage of United Nations events and joint initiatives.

4. Contribute to internal communication initiatives to ensure a constant exchange of information.

Participate in writing the internal newsletter (writing texts, interviews with staff, layout, etc.)

Contribution to the implementation of the Action Plan – People Survey for constantly improving internal collaboration.

Contribute to the sharing of knowledge related to internal and external communication within the office.

5. Contribute to the preparation of communication documents

Contribute to the development of information sheets on UNOPS RCA office projects

Contribute to the development of communication products (newsletter, infographics) for UNOPS RCA partners.

Educational value of the communication internship:

This internship allows the intern to acquire concrete skills in institutional communication, particularly in strategic monitoring, document management, development of communication products and professional writing.

It provides practical experience in internal and external coordination, thus strengthening the ability to manage information and ensure effective communication within an international organization.

The intern will have the opportunity to gain valuable experience in communications and project development/management and develop a strong understanding of UNOPS processes and procedures.

Education/Experience/Language requirements

Training:

A university degree obtained after a minimum of three years of study (e.g. BAC+3; Bachelor) in the fields of communication, visual communication, economics/marketing or any other related discipline is required.

Must have graduated in such studies within three (3) years prior to the date of application for the internship is required.

Professional experience:

No prior professional experience is required, however experience acquired through internships, one-off assignments, or participation in events related to continuous communication is an asset.

Certifications:

Additional certificates in communication are a plus.

Languages:

A perfect command of French, spoken, read and written is required.
A command of English, spoken, read and written is an asset.

SKILLS

Demonstrates an understanding of the effects of their role on all stakeholders and prioritizes beneficiaries. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner to others (if applicable to their role).
Evaluates data and processes to make logical and pragmatic decisions. Takes a neutral and rational approach by calculating risks. Applies innovation and creativity to a problem-solving approach.
Effectively establishes a series of actions for themselves and others to achieve an objective. Actions taken lead to total task accomplishment while meeting quality requirements in all areas. Identifies opportunities and takes initiative to seize them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes the impact of our activities on beneficiaries.
Treats all individuals with respect; considers differences and encourages others to do the same. Exemplifies ethical and organizational standards. Meets high standards of honesty. Is a role model for diversity and inclusion issues.
Open to change and flexible in a highly dynamic environment. Effectively adapts approach to meet changing circumstances or needs. Learns from experience and modifies behavior. Results are consistent, even under pressure. Continually seeks improvement.
Expresses ideas or facts clearly, concisely, and openly. Communication indicates consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and shares knowledge spontaneously. Manages conflict effectively by respecting differences and finding common ground.
Acts as a positive role model contributing to team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. For managers only: Acts as a positive role model of leadership, motivates, directs, and inspires others to succeed, uses appropriate leadership styles.

Contract type, level and duration – Internship

Contract type: Internship contract
Contract level: Intern
Contract duration: Six-month contract, renewable once subject to satisfactory performance, resource availability and organizational priorities.

This internship is open to candidates with Central African nationality/residence only.

This internship is not designed to lead to employment within UNOPS. Therefore, there should be no expectation of employment upon completion of the internship.

Interns may receive a monthly stipend from UNOPS, provided they do not receive funding from other institutions.

For more details on UNOPS internships, please follow this link:

https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/Internships-and-volunteering.aspx

Additional information

UNOPS does not accept unsolicited applications.

Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.

UNOPS will only contact those selected to proceed to the next stage of the recruitment process, which consists of various assessments.

UNOPS is committed to diversity and equal opportunity employment. UNOPS staff members represent diverse nationalities, cultures, languages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. UNOPS strives to maintain and enhance this diversity to ensure equal opportunities and an inclusive work environment for all staff.

UNOPS assesses each application based on the required skills, qualifications, and experience, as described in the job opening. We are committed to reviewing each application fairly and transparently, and we value diverse perspectives and experiences, including those of women, Indigenous and racialized communities, people with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations, and people living with disabilities.

UNOPS wants to ensure that all individuals can contribute to the best of their abilities during the assessment process. Shortlisted individuals who require additional assistance to complete an assessment, including reasonable accommodations, are encouraged to notify Human Resources staff after receiving an invitation to participate in the assessment.

Terms

For staff positions, UNOPS reserves the right to assign an individual to a position at a lower level than that published in the job opening.

Retainer contract holders are required to devote approximately four hours of their own time to complete some mandatory training before beginning their services with UNOPS. They may also be required to complete refresher courses or new mandatory training as part of their contract. No compensation will be paid for the time spent on these courses. To learn more about the retainer contract, click here.

All UNOPS personnel must, in the performance of their duties, comply with the Charter of the United Nations, UNOPS policies and instructions, and any other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals consistent with the values ​​of the United Nations and the vision of “Our Common Agenda.”

UNOPS policy requires that reference checks be conducted on all candidates considered for a position. These checks are decisive for employment.

The Democratic Republic of Congo

Based in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the UNOPS Democratic Republic of the Congo Multi-Country Office (UNOPS CDMCO) covers 15 countries: Angola, Burundi, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Comoros, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Madagascar, Mauritius, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, and Seychelles. CDMCO has a portfolio of nearly $400 million, comprising more than 42 projects and nearly 250 staff. Growth and geographic expansion are key priorities for CDMCO, with a particular focus on the African SIDS: Cape Verde, Comoros, Mauritius, Sao Tome and Principe, and Seychelles, as well as the growth and consolidation of those lagging behind in portfolio development, such as Angola, Cameroon, Burundi, and Rwanda.

Level of Education: Bachelor Degree

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months: No requirements