Emergency Response Intern

Job Title: Emergency Response Intern

Location: Geneva, Switzerland

Organization: United Nations Population Fund

Posted: April 4, 2024

Closing Date: April 17, 2024

Full/Part-Time: 100%

Duration: 6 months with immediate start

How You Can Make a Difference:

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is dedicated to creating a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled. Our strategic plan (2022-2025) focuses on ending preventable maternal deaths, unmet need for family planning, and gender-based violence. Join us in our mission to accelerate progress towards realizing the ICPD and SDGs in the Decade of Action leading up to 2030.

Job Purpose:

As an Emergency Response Intern, you will support the Global Emergency Response Unit (GERU) at the Humanitarian Response Division (HRD) in Geneva.

You Would Be Responsible For:

1. Assist with Daily Operations: Provide support to the day-to-day activities of GERU within HRD, under the guidance of experienced staff.

2. Support Coordination Efforts: Help coordinate tasks and consolidate data to support the Emergency Response team, including preparing basic documentation and reports.

3. Monitor Humanitarian Developments: Keep track of humanitarian situations and developments under mentorship, focusing on learning the dynamics of various regions.

4. Facilitate Information Flow: Assist in maintaining a constant flow of information and communication to support emergency planning and response efforts.

5. Emergency Response Assistance: Provide support in emergencies by collecting initial information and assisting in early operational tasks under close supervision.

6. Contribute to Training Efforts: Participate in organizing and delivering thematic webinars on humanitarian issues to build capacity among regional and country office staff.

7. Assist in Emergency Preparedness: Support the review and monitoring of emergency preparedness and response plans, contributing to timely delivery of assistance.

8. Learn from Emergency Operations: Collect information on lessons learned from emergency operations, contributing to the adoption of best practices and standards.

9. Support Field Missions: Accompany and support field missions to provide assistance to country offices with emergency expertise, focusing on hands-on learning.

10. Help with Reporting and Documentation: Assist in generating and analyzing data to inform performance in humanitarian action and support the development of reports and documentation.

Your Education:

• Currently enrolled in the final year of a bachelor’s program, an advanced degree program, or recently graduated in social sciences, public administration, law, public health, international relations, business administration, communication, or related disciplines.

Your Experience:

• Fluent in English.
• Previous experience in organizing webinars, online events, and training.
• Proficient in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and preferably graphic design software.
• Training/experience in emergency response management is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Self-starter, proactive, and passionate about UNFPA’s mandate.

Your Competencies:

• Good organizational skills.
• Initiative and resourcefulness.
• Strong communication skills.
• IT skills, including setting up websites, Zoom meetings, and social media skills, are assets.
• Ability to live by the core values of the UN: integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity.

Learning Elements:

Upon completion of the assignment, you should be able to:

• Understand UNFPA programming in humanitarian settings.
• Comprehend the UNFPA mandate, especially in humanitarian settings.
• Learn UN technical language, working procedures, and coordination mechanisms.
• Network with UNFPA staff members.
• Work as a team member in a multicultural setting.

Financial Aspects:

Interns receive a stipend in line with UNFPA policy. For an internship in Geneva, a stipend of 923 CHF/month applies. Costs associated with an intern’s participation in the program must be assumed by the nominating institution or the students themselves, including living expenses, accommodation, travel, and medical insurance.

Disclaimer:

UNFPA is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. UNFPA does not charge any application or recruitment fee. Please disregard any solicitations for payment.

How to Apply:

Please send your application and a short letter of motivation with “Emergency Response Intern” quoted in the subject line to ho-recruitment@unfpa.org by April 17, 2024. Late applications will not be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Possible Emergency Response Intern Interview Questions With Answers:

1. Can you describe your experience in organizing webinars and online events? Answer: In my previous role, I coordinated monthly webinars on various topics related to public health, which involved inviting speakers, managing technical aspects, and promoting the events across social media platforms.
2. How do you prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment during emergencies? Answer: I believe in triaging tasks based on urgency and impact. I prioritize tasks that directly contribute to immediate response efforts while ensuring that essential long-term planning activities are not neglected.
3. What steps do you take to ensure clear communication during emergency response operations? Answer: I utilize various communication channels, including regular briefings, emails, and instant messaging platforms, to ensure that all team members are informed promptly and accurately about the latest developments and tasks.
4. Can you provide an example of a challenging situation you faced during a humanitarian mission and how you resolved it? Answer: During a recent mission, we encountered logistical issues that delayed the delivery of essential supplies. I coordinated with local partners and improvised temporary solutions, ensuring that aid reached affected communities within the shortest possible time frame.
5. How do you stay updated on global humanitarian developments and best practices? Answer: I actively engage with industry publications, attend relevant conferences and workshops, and participate in online forums and discussion groups to stay informed about emerging trends and best practices in humanitarian response.
6. Describe a time when you had to adapt quickly to changing circumstances during an emergency operation. Answer: During a sudden escalation of conflict in a region, I had to rapidly revise our response strategy and reallocate resources to ensure the safety and well-being of affected populations. I facilitated emergency meetings and coordinated with stakeholders to implement agile solutions.
7. How do you ensure accountability and transparency in the management of resources during emergency operations? Answer: I believe in maintaining meticulous records and conducting regular audits to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and transparently. I also prioritize open communication with stakeholders to address any concerns or discrepancies promptly.
8. Can you discuss your experience in collaborating with diverse teams from different cultural backgrounds? Answer: In my previous roles, I’ve had the opportunity to work with multicultural teams on various projects. I believe in fostering an inclusive work environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and cultural differences are respected.
9. How do you handle stress and pressure in high-stakes situations during humanitarian emergencies? Answer: I practice stress-management techniques such as mindfulness, exercise, and prioritization to maintain focus and clarity during high-stress situations. I also believe in fostering a supportive team environment where colleagues can lean on each other for support.
10. What motivates you to pursue a career in humanitarian response? Answer: I’m driven by a deep sense of empathy and a desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable populations. I believe that everyone deserves access to essential services and opportunities, regardless of their circumstances.

Sample Cover Letter for an Emergency Response Intern Position

Hiring Manager United Nations Population Fund

Geneva, Switzerland

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Emergency Response Intern position at the United Nations Population Fund, as advertised. With a background in [mention relevant experience or education], I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to UNFPA’s mission of delivering humanitarian assistance to those in need.

Throughout my academic and professional experiences, I have demonstrated a strong commitment to [mention relevant skills or qualities]. My proficiency in [mention relevant skills] and my passion for [mention relevant field or cause] make me well-suited to support the Global Emergency Response Unit at the Humanitarian Response Division in Geneva.

I am particularly drawn to this internship because of [mention specific aspects of the job or organization that interest you]. I am eager to learn from experienced professionals in the field and contribute to UNFPA’s efforts to address global humanitarian challenges.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of your team. Please find my resume attached for your review.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

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We are committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all races and backgrounds in our continued effort to become a better development partner. We are an equal employer and do not charge any application/recruitment fees, whether refundable or not.