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Project Management Interns - Innovation (Multiple Positions)
United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)
Internship Intern Internship
Close on 29 Oct 2025
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Posted 13 hours ago
Job Description

Note: This position is based within UN Global Pulse Asia Pacific, the UN Secretary-General’s Innovation Lab, administered by UNOPS.

East Asia and Pacific Multi-Country Office (EAPMCO)

The South East Asia and Pacific Multi Country Office (EAPMCO) supports, develops and oversees the UNOPS portfolio of projects in South East Asia and the Pacific. In 2024, the UNOPS EAPMCO implemented projects worth more than USD 80 million, in the areas of Energy Transition, Digital Transformations, Sustainable Environmental Management, Climate Change, Waste Management, Rule of Law and Access to Justice, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Post Conflict Reintegration, Emergency Relief, Post COVID19 Economic Transformations, and Health, through HR, procurement, construction, contract management, fund and program management services.

The Multi Country Office head office in Bangkok provides strategic direction, operational support, delivery oversight and assurance of the excellence of business processes and quality standards across all of the entire Multi Country Office locations. It is also responsible for developing, delivering and managing the portfolio of engagements in the country of the MCO location itself.

UN Global Pulse (UNGP)

UN Global Pulse is an initiative of the Executive Office of Secretary-General (EOSG) founded in 2009. We work in support of the Secretary-General’s priorities, in advancement of the UN Charter. UN Global Pulse serves as a cross-pillar lead and hub for experimentation and digital innovation. We have a globally distributed team in the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia. The teams work with digital innovation, strategic foresight, real-time data and artificial intelligence to further sustainable development, humanitarian and peace outcomes. Our vision is ‘A world in which responsible and inclusive digital innovation serves to empower people and protect the planet’. Our mission is to work at the intersection of digital innovation and science to inform, inspire and support the entire UN and those it serves, to anticipate and respond to the challenges of today and tomorrow.

The goals of the UN Global Pulse Network are: i) to generate knowledge, capabilities and approaches that support the transformation of the United Nations into a more agile and resilient ‘next-generation’ institution; ii) to create and accelerate the development of globally accessible approaches that help communities and partners anticipate and address emerging global challenges; and iii) to advocate for the global transformation of policies, practices and culture required to maximize the impact of digital innovation, minimize its risk of harm, and ensure pathways to scale and sustainability.

The UN Global Pulse Asia Pacific, administered by the UNOPS system, is a regional hub that works at the intersection of innovation and the human sciences to strengthen the ability of the United Nations and its stakeholders to respond and adapt to the challenges of today and tomorrow. As the UN Secretary-General’s Innovation Lab, the hub utilises a set of capabilities on data, innovation, digital expertise, strategic foresight, and behavioural science.

Serving the wider Asia Pacific region, the hub is a frontrunner in practising and advocating for inclusive innovation. Drawing on a decade of successes harnessing system design, as well as big data and artificial intelligence for platform development and data analytics, Global Pulse Asia Pacific facilitates co-creation of forward-thinking solutions that inform policy and decision-making.

From enhancing humanitarian crisis response, strengthening climate resilience, and improving the decision-making process in digital transformation, the hub will continue to apply innovation to accelerate the achievement of the sustainable development agenda for a better future.

To achieve its goals, UN Global Pulse Asia Pacific is looking for Interns (multiple positions) to support Data Innovation and Policy Analysis, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning & Knowledge Management, Social Systems Research, and Partnership, advocacy and communications in the Jakarta Office. Selected candidates will have the opportunity to work in one of the designated areas of specialization, with the possibility of rotation across different areas based on organizational needs and supervisory guidance.

Applying candidates are encouraged to express their preferred area(s) of work in the cover letter.



  1. Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning & Knowledge Management
  2. Social Systems Researcher

  3. Data Innovation and Policy Analysis

  4. Strategic Partnerships and Communications

1.Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning & Knowledge Management

In 2023, UN Global Pulse adopted Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) and Knowledge Management (KM) practices as a set of best practices for its portfolio of projects. These practices focus on aligning projects with the organization’s overarching Theory of Change and ensuring systematic processes for monitoring, evaluation, and knowledge sharing. By integrating MEL and KM approaches, the organization seeks to optimize its impact and enhance decision-making processes.

The MEL/KM’s objectives include:

  • Systematic Monitoring and Knowledge Management: Align projects with corresponding Theories of Change, establish clear data collection mechanisms, and develop results frameworks at the project and organizational levels.

  • Comprehensive Evaluation: Implement evaluation plans that address organizational needs beyond project-specific requirements, considering existing capacity and resources.

  • Learning Processes: Encourage teams to analyze collected data and integrate insights into decision-making processes to enhance project delivery and impact.

Under the supervision of the MEL Senior Analyst, the MEL/KM intern will collaborate with project teams to support the implementation of the organizational MEL framework and plans. The MEL/KM intern will undertake the following duties:

  • Conduct desk reviews and background research to identify innovative MEL approaches and opportunities within the UN System and beyond, focusing on applying the Quintet of Change methods.

  • Aid in the development of MEL and KM tools and guides, collaborating with the MEL Senior Analyst and team members, and contribute to the creation of data collection instruments such as online surveys and interview guides, as well as collecting responses.

  • Assist in using and developing further the portfolio information system in collaboration with MEL, KM and Communications teams.

  • Support project teams in gathering, analyzing and visualizing both qualitative and quantitative data.

  • Contribute to the planning and implementation of internal capacity-building for colleagues to inform and guide the teams in using new MEL and KM practices.

  • Participating in meetings and drafting meeting minutes or summaries.

*Perform any other duties as may be reasonably required and in line with the incumbent’s scope of services above.

2.Social Systems Research

The Social System work stream of UN Global Pulse Asia Pacific (UNGP-AP) hosts ethnographers, human-centred designers, and urban planners. This work stream is aimed at providing a deeper context to data through an understanding of the behaviour and needs of humans behind those data. The Social Systems researcher will be supporting the Social Systems team in crafting research plans, conducting field work and immersion, synthesising insights, and communicating our projects in a fresh, relevant, and compelling way. It is essential for candidates to excel in writing and storytelling.

In this context, the social systems researcher intern has the following objectives:

  1. Support the social systems team in ensuring the effective provision of high-quality, policy-relevant research.

  2. Support the development and dissemination of research products and other social systems dissemination activities.

  3. Contribute to knowledge building and sharing for the UNGP AP hub

Under the supervision of the Social Systems Lead or designated staff, the intern will be supporting the Social Systems team in crafting research plans, conducting field work and immersion, synthesising insights, and communicating our projects in a fresh, relevant, and compelling way. It is essential for candidates to excel in writing and storytelling.

The intern will contribute through the following tasks:

  1. Actively conduct policy-relevant research.

  2. Support the development and dissemination of research products and other social systems dissemination activities.

  3. Contribute to knowledge building and sharing for the UNGP AP hub

  4. Support the research activities as needed, including crafting the research plan, synthesising insights and logistical arrangement

  5. Drafting a research report or storytelling

*Perform any other duties as may be reasonably required and in line with the incumbent’s scope of services above.

3. Data Innovation and Policy Analysis

The Data Innovation and Policy team at UN Global Pulse Asia Pacific applies advanced data analytics, digital innovation, and strategic foresight to support evidence-based policy and resilient development pathways. Current flagship initiatives include work on sea level rise (SLR), which poses critical risks to coastal communities, ecosystems, and economic stability, and the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (PMBG), which leverages data-driven decision support systems to strengthen food security and social protection.

For sea level rise, the team addresses development challenges in Indonesia and the broader Indo-Pacific region by balancing high-level national strategies with locally relevant insights. Priority areas include:

  • Adaptation planning

  • Protection of settlements and infrastructure

  • Conservation of natural resources

  • Mapping of social and economic risks

  • Disaster mitigation and response

  • Community awareness

  • Sustainable development

By scaling successful pilots, integrating multiple data sources, and applying cutting-edge methods, UN Global Pulse AP aims to support Indonesia and Pacific Island nations in building resilience and adapting to the impacts of climate change. At the same time, the team demonstrates how data innovation can inform national priorities, strengthen policy coherence, and provide transferable lessons for other development sectors.

Under the direct supervision of the Data Innovation and Policy Lead, the intern will support the Data Innovation & Policy team with the following tasks aligned to the project management needs of the team:

  • Coordination and delivery of activities:

    • Support the preparation, coordination and execution of virtual, hybrid and/or in-person events and activities.

  • Track progress and continuous improvement:

    • Assist the development of monitoring, evaluation and learning approaches in close consultation with other in-house technical analysts to track key milestones.

    • Assist the analysis and visualization of monitoring, evaluation and learning outcomes to contribute to continuous improvement of the team’s activities and reporting requirements.

  • Ensure a needs-driven and evidence-based service offer:

    • Support desk reviews of related topics to synthesize up-to-date information of innovation best practices or opportunities from within the UN System and beyond, with an emphasis on innovation scaling, to ensure the team’s priority areas remain evidence-based and needs driven.

  • Documentation and strategic communication:

    • Support the development of materials that contribute to the effective communication and strategic visibility of the team’s work internally and externally to the UN System. This can include assisting with content development and delivery of materials such as newsletters, blogs, social media, slide decks and other channels in collaboration with the in-house communications team.

*Perform any other duties as may be reasonably required and in line with the incumbent’s scope of services above.

4. Strategic Partnerships and Communications

Partnerships and communications play a crucial role in enhancing an organization’s visibility and fostering trust with its partners. A strong team in this area contributes significantly to the overall success and impact of the organization.

Reporting directly to the Partnership and Advocacy Lead, this internship offers a unique chance to contribute to meaningful initiatives by supporting effective and timely reporting and communication efforts for the UN Global Pulse office.

We’re looking for a passionate and proactive individual eager to learn and grow in a dynamic environment, while making a real difference in global advocacy and partnerships.

Under the guidance and supervisor of the Partnership and Advocacy Lead, the intern will:

  • Support in preparing briefing materials and slide decks and key documentation for meetings and events including minutes of meetings.

  • Identify, collect and compile data and information to prepare key documents, guidelines, talking points, position papers, and other materials, as required.

  • Provide logistic and administrative support in the organization of meetings and events with governments, UN agencies, and other stakeholders, as required.

  • Assist in development of communication materials for various events, projects, and research outcomes, ensuring clarity of language and accessibility for non-technical audiences.

  • Support in maintaining relationships with partners, including tracking engagement efforts, preparing partnership briefs, and drafting follow-up communications.

  • Assist in developing social media content, newsletters, and outreach materials to enhance the visibility of UN Global Pulse AP’s initiatives, ensuring effective storytelling and engagement.

  • Contribute to monitoring and reporting on the impact of partnerships, advocacy efforts, and events, supporting the documentation of best practices and lessons learned for internal and external knowledge-sharing.

*Perform any other duties as may be reasonably required and in line with the incumbent’s scope of services above.


Impact of Results

In coordination with the UN Global Pulse Asia Pacific staff, interns will report on progress and assure the timely deliverables of the agreed outputs. Interns are expected to exercise flexibility in the internship regarding the potential of dynamically adapting working arrangements so that the outputs can be delivered.

  • Interns will work on the assignment full time (candidates who can only work part time might also be considered) for an estimated 6 months.

  • The positions are based in Jakarta, Indonesia

Interns may be eligible for a monthly stipend from UNOPS provided that they do not receive funds from other institutions. Furthermore, UNOPS may provide a one time travel lumpsum. However, the interns must make their own arrangements for accommodation, travel and necessary visa arrangements.

Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organizational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion.
Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. For people managers only: Acts as positive leadership role model, motivates, directs and inspires others to succeed, utilizing appropriate leadership styles.
Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role).
Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries.
Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements.
Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving.
Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground.

Education:
  • Applicants must be enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree or be pursuing an advanced university degree, such as a Masters or a Ph.D., or be a recent graduate from such studies (within the last 3 years).

  • To be eligible for this particular internship, the candidate should have studied or be studying towards a university degree preferably in: innovation management, administrative studies, international relations, global development studies, social sciences, computer science, information System, information technology or another related discipline.


Experience:

  • Experience with monitoring, evaluation and learning processes and knowledge management is an asset.

  • Experience with futures and foresight related planning, design, experimentation, training, or tools is an asset.

  • Strong interest in innovation scaling and the role of innovation within a development and/ or humanitarian context is an asset.

  • Experience in data analysis, visualization, and conducting comprehensive desk reviews is an asset.

  • Experience in collating and synthesizing evidence-based knowledge is an asset.

  • Experience in communications content production is an asset.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills are desirable.

  • Strong organizational and project management skills are desirable.

  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively with a team is desirable.


Language requirements:
  • Fluency in both written and oral English is required.

  • Knowledge of another official United Nations language is an asset.


  • Contract type: Internship
  • Contract level: Intern
  • Contract duration: 6 months with possibility of extension based on satisfactory performance and budget availability

This internship is not designed to lead to a staff position with UNOPS. Therefore, there should be no expectation of employment at the end of the internship.

Interns may be eligible for a monthly stipend from UNOPS provided that they do not receive funds from other institutions. Further, UNOPS may provide a one time travel lumpsum. However, they must make their own arrangements for accommodation, travel and necessary visa arrangements.

For more details about UNOPS internships please follow this link:
https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/Internships-and-volunteering.aspx


  • Please note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes.

  • Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.

  • Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process, which involves various assessments.

  • UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity. Our workforce consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures, languages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. UNOPS seeks to sustain and strengthen this diversity to ensure equal opportunities as well as an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce.

  • UNOPS evaluates all applications based on the skills, qualifications and experience requirements outlined in the vacancy announcement. We are committed to considering all candidates in a fair and transparent manner, and we value diverse perspectives and experiences, including those of women, indigenous and racialized communities, individuals with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities.
  • We would like to ensure all candidates perform at their best during the assessment process. If you are shortlisted and require additional assistance to complete any assessment, including reasonable accommodation, please inform our human resources team when you receive an invitation.

Terms and Conditions

  • For staff positions only, UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post.

  • For retainer contracts, you must complete a few mandatory courses ( they take around 4 hours to complete) in your own time, before providing services to UNOPS. Refreshers or new mandatory courses may be required during your contract. Please note that you will not receive any compensation for taking courses and refreshers. For more information on a retainer contract here.

  • All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda.

  • It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential personnel. Recruitment in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.


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