United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is looking for a Traineeship - Multilateral Diplomacy Programme (Procurement & Administration)

Traineeship - Multilateral Diplomacy Programme (Procurement & Administration)

Vacancy announcement

Geneva, Switzerland

TR/2026/002

Traineeship - Multilateral Diplomacy Programme (Procurement & Administration)

• Vacancy type: Trainee
• Duration of the contract: Six months (in-person)
• Deadline for submission of applications: 25 January 2026
• Organizational Unit: Multilateral Diplomacy Programme Unit (MDPU)
• Number of job positions: 1

The Multilateral Diplomacy Programme (MDP) of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) maintains a traineeship programme for students/recent graduates interested in gaining professional experience in a multicultural environment and enhancing their understanding of the United Nations system.

MDPU designs and delivers the Institute’s core diplomacy training (CDT), consisting primarily of orientation briefings and short, intensive skills development workshops which benefit cumulatively some 2,500 diplomats yearly at the United Nations Headquarters and other venues where the Organization maintains a significant presence.

Parallel to CDT, MDPU develops and delivers training activities at country and regional levels in close partnership with governments, universities and selected international organizations. MDPU’s activities also include e-Learning courses; special projects, advisory services related to the curriculum development of diplomatic academies; and the development of other training tools and publications.

MDPU welcomes qualified candidates interested to work for a period of six months, at UNITAR headquarters in Geneva. The placement is on an unpaid basis, but a monthly lump-sum of 900 CHF will be provided towards transportation and miscellaneous costs.

Background

In line with the Institute’s efforts to continually enhance its training activity portfolio, the Multilateral Diplomacy Programme develops online and face-to-face activities offered to the diplomatic community based in Geneva, New York and elsewhere.

The Programme also routinely organizes tailor-made activities upon request of donors and partners. These activities target government officials involved in bilateral and multilateral negotiations, students and the younger generation.

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Programme Assistant of UNITAR’s Multilateral Diplomacy Programme, the trainee will assist in the administrative coordination of face-to-face and online training activities. Typical tasks assigned to the trainee may include the following:

• Provide operational and administrative support in the coordination of training programmes;
• Support procurement processes, such as purchase requests and comparative statements;
• Track procurement processes up to delivery, acceptance, and payment, ensuring timely delivery of goods and services ordered, in compliance with UNITAR’s procurement guidelines;
• Maintain relevant internal databases, spreadsheets, and files for administrative actions;
• Assist in the physical verification of office equipment and maintaining the related files and inventory records.
• Support the coordination of travel;
• Assist with internal meeting arrangements.

The tasks assigned may be reviewed during contract period to reflect changes in programme needs and priorities.

Learning Objectives

After the assignment the trainee should be able to:

• Translate complex administrative requirements into actionable objectives;
• Develop an understanding of the administrative procedures applied at UNITAR and the United Nations;
• Work in a team and take initiative;
• Develop a professional network with UNITAR and United Nations staff;
• Work in a multicultural environment.

Dates and Duration

• Start date: February 2026. Exact date to be agreed upon with the selected candidate.
• Duration: Six months. The traineeship programme is normally on a full-time basis and trainees are expected to work five days a week.

Minimum requirements

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be enrolled in an undergraduate/graduate/postgraduate degree (within either business administration, international relations, or a related subject) or be a recent graduate of the aforementioned (if selected, they must commence the traineeship within two years of graduation).

Proven administrative and organizational skills; ability to follow complex guidelines and processes; strong attention to detail; ability to communicate in a clear, concise and accurate manner; analytical skills; computer skills including online tools, AI, Adobe, Excel, Word, etc; a high level of individual responsibility, commitment and initiative. Prior experience in the areas of Procurement or Finance are a strong advantage.

Languages

A high standard in both oral and written English is required. Knowledge of other UN working languages (especially French) is an advantage.

How to apply

Please submit your application along with a motivation letter as soon as possible after the vacancy has been posted and well before the deadline stated in the vacancy announcement.

Due to the high number of expected applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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