UNDP Early-careers for International Professionals in 2025
Apply for the UNDP Early-careers for International Professionals in 2025. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is hiring early-career International Professionals to support global development initiatives. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is offering global career opportunities for international professionals eager to make an impact in sustainable development, humanitarian response, and global policy-making. These roles offer international mobility, leadership growth, and hands-on experience in crisis and development contexts. Explore how you can be part of this mission.
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Background & Job Description
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is one of the world’s leading organizations dedicated to sustainable development, poverty eradication, and humanitarian assistance. UNDP recruits International Professionals from diverse backgrounds to contribute their expertise across various specialized functions. These positions are vital in shaping global policies, managing development programs, and leading innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
As an International Professional, you will be expected to work in multiple regions, including crisis zones and humanitarian emergency settings. This category of professionals includes Directors, technical experts, and development specialists, who play a pivotal role in driving UNDP’s mission forward.
These positions provide a unique career trajectory, offering opportunities for international mobility, leadership development, and hands-on experience in international policy and program management. Depending on your experience and education, you may qualify for different levels within the Professional (P) category, ranging from entry-level (P-1) to mid-career roles (P-3).
If you have a strong passion for international development, policy analysis, project management, and global governance, this is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact.
Tasks
As a UNDP International Professional, your responsibilities may include:
1. Program Development & Implementation
- Designing and implementing development programs focused on poverty alleviation, climate action, gender equality, and governance.
- Managing partnerships with governments, NGOs, and private sector actors to drive policy impact.
- Ensuring project alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
2. Policy Research & Advocacy
- Conducting research on pressing global challenges, including climate change, economic development, and human rights.
- Drafting policy briefs and reports to advise UNDP leadership and partner organizations.
- Advocating for sustainable development policies at national and international levels.
3. Crisis Response & Humanitarian Assistance
- Working in post-conflict and crisis zones to provide immediate support for humanitarian initiatives.
- Coordinating emergency relief efforts and helping countries recover from disasters.
- Supporting policy development for resilient infrastructure and disaster preparedness.
4. Strategic Leadership & Management
- Leading diverse teams across different regions and cultural contexts.
- Overseeing budgets, project planning, and operational management of UNDP programs.
- Providing strategic guidance and expertise to help shape global development strategies.
5. Monitoring & Evaluation
- Assessing the impact of UNDP projects to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
- Developing performance indicators to track project success and recommending improvements.
- Reporting progress to UN agencies, donors, and stakeholders.
UNDP Early-careers for International Professionals in 2025
Qualifications
Education and Certification
To qualify for International Professional roles, candidates must meet the following educational requirements:
| Level of Appointment | Bachelor’s Degree + Experience | Master’s Degree + Experience |
|---|---|---|
| P-1 (Entry Level) | 2 years | 0 years |
| P-2 (Junior Level) | 4 years | 2 years |
| P-3 (Mid-Level) | 7 years | 5 years |
- Degrees in fields such as International Relations, Development Studies, Political Science, Economics, Environmental Studies, or Public Administration are preferred.
- A Project Management Certification (PMP, Prince2, or equivalent) is advantageous.
Experience
- P-1 Level (Entry-Level): Candidates with a Master’s degree can apply with no prior experience. Those with a Bachelor’s degree need at least 2 years of experience in international development or a related field.
- P-2 Level (Junior-Level): Requires 4 years of experience with a Bachelor’s or 2 years with a Master’s in relevant fields.
- P-3 Level (Mid-Level): Requires 7 years of experience with a Bachelor’s or 5 years with a Master’s.
Additional Experience Requirements:
- Experience in policy research, humanitarian aid, project management, and sustainable development is highly valued.
- Proven ability to work in cross-cultural, international settings is preferred.
- Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills are essential.
Additional Information
Global Mobility & Duty Stations
- UNDP International Professionals must be globally mobile, meaning you may be assigned to multiple countries throughout your career.
- Assignments vary in duration and are influenced by the hardship level of the duty station.
- Duty stations can range from headquarters in New York to field offices in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and crisis-affected regions.
Salary & Benefits
- Competitive tax-free salary based on the UN salary scale.
- Health insurance, pension benefits, and paid leave.
- Opportunities for career progression and further training through UNDP.
Application Process
- Interested candidates can apply through the UNDP Careers Portal at careers.undp.org.
- Applications must include a CV, cover letter, and academic credentials.
- Deadlines vary by position, so early applications are encouraged.
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