The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that aims to promote peace and security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. With a mission to build peace in the minds of men and women, UNESCO plays a vital role in fostering sustainable development globally. As part of its commitment to this mission, UNESCO offers various job opportunities for individuals passionate about making a difference.
Career opportunities at UNESCO
UNESCO regularly posts job openings across various fields, including education, culture, science, communication, and administration. Here are some type of positions currently available:
- Internships: These are typically aimed at students or recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in an international setting. Internships at UNESCO can cover various sectors such as natural sciences, gender equality, and internal oversight services.
- Professional Roles: These positions require specific expertise and often involve responsibilities that contribute directly to UNESCO’s mission. Roles may include Programme Specialists in areas like education or social sciences, Communication Officers, and Project Coordinators.
- Consultancies: UNESCO also hires consultants for specific projects or studies. These roles are often temporary and focused on delivering particular outcomes within a defined timeframe.
- Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme: This program is designed for young professionals from under-represented countries who wish to start their careers in international development through hands-on experience at UNESCO.
- General Service Positions: These roles support the administrative functions of the organization and may include positions such as Administrative Assistants or IT Support staff.
To explore open jobs at UNESCO, visit their official website
Application process
Applying for jobs at UNESCO involves several steps, which are outlined below:
1. Visit the UNESCO Careers Website : Start by navigating to the official UNESCO careers page. This is where all job openings are listed, and you can find detailed information about each position.
To apply for a job, you need to create an account on the UNESCO careers portal. Click on “Sign In/View Profile” and follow the prompts to set up your candidate profile.
3. Complete Your Candidate Profile
Once your account is created, fill out your candidate profile completely. This includes personal information, educational background, work experience, and any relevant skills. Note that UNESCO does not accept CVs attached to applications; all information must be entered directly into the online form.
4. Prepare Your Employment History Form
Download and complete the Employment History Form provided on the application site. This form allows you to detail your previous employment history, responsibilities, and achievements in a structured format.
Use the search function on the careers page to find job openings that match your qualifications and interests. You can filter positions by type (e.g., internships, professional roles) or location.
6. Apply for a Position
Once you find a suitable position:
- Click on the job title to view its details.
- Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria.
- Answer any motivation questions required as part of the application process.
- Submit your completed Employment History Form along with any other required documents (e.g., diplomas or certificates).
7. Monitor Your Application Status
After submitting your application, you can track its status through your candidate profile under “Jobs Applied.” Here, you will see updates regarding interviews or offers.
8. Prepare for Interviews
If selected for an interview, prepare thoroughly by researching UNESCO’s mission and values as well as understanding the specific role you applied for.
By following these steps carefully, you can effectively navigate the application process at UNESCO and increase your chances of securing a position within this esteemed organization.