The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently composed of 193 member states. Its primary purpose is to maintain international peace and security, promote friendly relations among nations, foster international cooperation, and serve as a center for coordinating the actions of member nations. The UN was established after World War II with the aim of preventing future conflicts and succeeding the ineffective League of Nations.

Open jobs at the United Nations

The UN offers a wide range of job opportunities across various fields including administration, finance, human resources, information technology, legal affairs, public information, social sciences, and many more. Positions are available at different levels from entry-level to senior management roles.

Finding a job with the United Nations (UN) can be a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. The UN offers a wide range of career opportunities across various fields, but navigating the application process requires knowledge of where to look and how to apply effectively. Below are detailed steps on where and how to find open jobs at the UN.

1. UN Careers Portal : The primary gateway for job seekers is the UN Careers Portal. This platform lists all job openings across different UN agencies and provides essential information about each position, including requirements, responsibilities, and application procedures.

2. Specialized Programs for Young Professionals

More opportunities

If you are a young professional (32 years old or younger), consider applying for specialized programs such as:

  • Young Professionals Programme (YPP): This program recruits young professionals through an entrance examination conducted annually.
  • Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme: This initiative partners with donor countries to provide entry-level positions for young professionals.

Both programs have specific eligibility criteria, including educational qualifications and language proficiency.

3. Temporary Jobs and Complex Duty Stations : For those seeking initial opportunities, looking for temporary jobs or positions in complex duty stations can increase your chances of being hired. These roles often have less competition compared to permanent positions.

4. Consulting Opportunities : If you have expertise in a particular area, consider applying for consultancy roles. Many consultants work remotely, providing flexibility while still contributing to UN projects.

5. Paid Volunteer Opportunities : Geographically flexible candidates may explore paid volunteer opportunities through the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program. While these roles are not considered official staff positions, they offer valuable experience and a modest living allowance.

6. Direct Agency Websites : Not all UN jobs are advertised on the main careers portal; many organizations post vacancies directly on their websites. Regularly check the employment pages of specific UN agencies that interest you.

7. Third-Party Job Aggregators : There are third-party websites that aggregate job listings from various UN agencies. Utilizing these platforms can help streamline your job search by providing multiple listings in one place.

8. Networking and Informational Interviews : Building connections within the UN community can significantly enhance your job search efforts. Attend networking events or seek informational interviews with current or former UN employees to gain insights into potential openings and application tips.

9. International Organizations Related to the UN : Consider applying for jobs with other international organizations that collaborate closely with the UN system. Experience gained in these roles can serve as a stepping stone toward future employment with the UN.

10. Persistence and Patience : Finally, securing a position at the UN often requires persistence due to high competition levels and lengthy application processes. Stay patient, keep applying, and remain open to alternative paths within related organizations if necessary.

Application process

Applying for a job at the United Nations (UN) can be a rewarding process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it:

  1. Determine Your Staff Category: First, decide whether you want to apply for a General Service staff position (G staff) or a Professional staff position (P staff). This distinction is important as it influences the application process and eligibility requirements 
  2. Visit the UN Careers Website: Go to the official UN Careers website. This is where you can find job openings and detailed information about the application process 
  3. Search for Job Openings: Use the search function to find job openings that match your skills and interests. Make sure to read the job descriptions carefully to understand the requirements.
  4. Submit Your Application: Once your application is ready, submit it through the UN’s Inspira platform. Ensure that you follow all instructions and deadlines provided in the job listing.
  5. Prepare for Assessments and Interviews: If selected, you may be invited for assessments or interviews. Prepare thoroughly by reviewing the job requirements, researching the UN’s mission and initiatives, and practicing common interview questions 

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