Background
Energy access and environmental management need to be considered in humanitarian operations to enhance the well-being and protection of affected populations, and the sustainability of operations. The majority of refugees rely on their surrounding natural environment for food, water, livelihoods, shelter and fuel. However, a large population in an area can put substantial pressure on the surrounding resources, with consequences for persons dependent on the surrounding environment. Additionally, limited access to energy can have severe repercussions on the socio-economic situation and safety of refugees.
UNHCR, mandated to protect the rights and wellbeing of refugees, has implemented measures to address these issues, including providing refugees with fuel-efficient stoves, solar street lights, and solar lanterns, and implementing environmental activities such as land rehabilitation. The UNHCR Energy and Environment Unit within the Operational Solutions and Transition Section (OSTS) is increasing its operational activities in the field, expanding its communication & advocacy activities and striving to engage the community of stakeholders.
In this regard, the E&E Unit is seeking an intern who will be able to assist the team in its day-to-day operational management. This will allow the E&E Unit to have a more comprehensive and coordinated response to energy and environmental issues and needs.
The intern will gain knowledge on:
· UNHCR missions and values;
· UNHCR’s work on energy and environment in field and country offices around the world;
· Other issue areas central to UNHCR’s work (including livelihoods and self-reliance, emergency response, international protection);
· UN policies, procedures and budgetary data;
· Different UN organizations, partners and donors, as well as working groups and UN platforms.
The intern will learn how to:
· Work across sectors and divisions to advance energy and environment issues for persons of concern;
· Strengthen external and internal communication between field colleagues, HQ , partners and the large public;
· Supervise day-to-day operations and respond to various administrative queries;
· Work in a multicultural environment;
· Strengthen time management skills.
Responsibilities will include:
· Day-to-day management of the E&E Unit:
- Plan and schedule meetings;
- Organize workshops and oversee the Unit’s missions planning tool;
- Organize and maintain files, using Sharepoint and E-Safe;
- Draft Memos, summary briefs and ad hoc administrative documents.
· Coordination of the social media platforms (Twitter and Facebook) and bi-monthly OSTS newsletter;
· Support the Unit’s advocacy and communications activities;
· Assist the unit with strengthening the network between HQ and field staff dedicated to energy and environment issues;
· Additional support to the OSTS and the Energy and Environment Unit in particular as required.
Requirements
· Graduate student or recent graduate (information management, business administration, anthropology / sociology, environmental management, humanitarian / international /sustainable development, migration);
· Excellent oral and written English skills. Knowledge of French (oral and written) would be an asset;
· Interest in humanitarian operations and / or energy and environment an advantage;
· Computer literacy (MS Office Suite, social media), and knowledge of publishing or editing software an advantage;
· Familiar with database management systems (Sharepoint, Oracle, etc.);
· Ability to navigate in a dynamic, multi-cultural environment;
· Ability to work both independently and as part of team;
· Positive attitude and pro-activve
· Flexibility, professional and personal integrity.
Commitment
Full time for 6 months: Starting date January 2017 or as soon as possible. The intern will be placed at UNHCR Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
HOW TO APPLY:
Please send an email with CV, a cover letter, and a recent writing sample to: environment@unhcr.org
Deadline for applications: 15 November 2016
