United Nations Development Programme (UNDP): Junior Professional Officer Programme

The Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme provides young professionals pursuing a career in development with hands-on experience in multi-lateral technical co-operation. JPOs are offered one year fixed term contracts which are normally renewed for a second year (two years being the usual length of assignment), subject to satisfactory performance.

Requirements

Duration
  • 6-12 months
  • 12 months+
Maximum age
32
Student status required
No
Qualifications required
  • Graduate degree
Language notes
Written and spoken proficiency in at least two of the three working languages used by UNDP: English~ French and Spanish. Fluency in Arabic~ Russian or Portuguese is an asset.
Application process
Candidates for the JPO Programme are selected on a highly competitive basis. The qualifications below are required for consideration: - Usually be under 32 years of age; - Academic qualifications: Master's degree (or equivalent) in a development-related discipline; - Minimum of one to two years of working experience in a developing country is highly desirable; - Language skills: written and spoken proficiency in at least two of the three working languages used by UNDP: English, French and Spanish. Fluency in Arabic, Russian or Portuguese is an asset; - Excellent information technology skills, including word-processing, database applications, presentation software and Internet; - Evidence of ability to think strategically; to express ideas clearly; to work independently and in teams; to demonstrate a sense of self-assuredness combined with cultural and gender sensitivity; - A strong commitment to development; an interest in adapting to varied physical and professional environments; and a desire to work with people with different language, national and cultural backgrounds; - Respect for the principles of the United Nations Charter and the participating UN agencies Mission Statements.

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