Organization: United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)
Organizational Unit: Social Development Programme Unit (SDPU)
Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Duration: 6 months (starting 1 November 2025, full-time)
Compensation: Monthly stipend of CHF 900
Application Deadline: 1 October 2025
About the Programme
The Social Development Programme Unit (SDPU) supports local actors to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2030 through training workshops, seminars, and e-learning activities. These are often implemented via the CIFAL Global Network or directly by SDPU.
This traineeship will provide hands-on experience in supporting UNITAR projects through graphic design, multimedia content creation, and visual storytelling.
Key Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Senior Programme Specialist, the trainee will:
- Develop brand-aligned graphic materials (logos, posters, publications, presentations, banners)
- Create engaging digital content for websites, social media, and multimedia presentations
- Produce custom illustrations, icons, and data visualizations (charts, maps, infographics)
- Design layouts for project-related documents and publications
- Support coordination of multiple design projects and meet deadlines
- Optimize materials for accessibility and online distribution
Learning Objectives
By the end of the traineeship, participants will:
- Gain practical experience working within a UN agency
- Strengthen creative, organizational, and technical design skills
- Enhance project management and content development capabilities
- Build professional networks and intercultural communication skills
- Learn to maintain consistent branding and visual identity across projects
Required Qualifications
Education:
- Enrolled in or recently graduated (within 2 years) from a degree in communication, graphic design, visual arts, multimedia design, or related field
- Portfolio demonstrating strong graphic design skills, particularly in digital media and multimedia arts
Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
- Experience with video/audio editing tools (Premiere Pro, After Effects)
- Knowledge of design principles, colour theory, typography, and layout techniques
- Understanding of digital content creation and basic animation
- Web design or development experience is an asset
- Familiarity with learning management systems is a plus
Languages:
- Required: Fluency in spoken and written English
- Preferred: Professional proficiency in Spanish
- Asset: Knowledge of another official UN language
Key Competencies
- Strong planning, organizational, and time management skills
- Creativity with attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines
- Excellent communication skills (written, visual, and presentation)
- Ability to work in a multicultural, multidisciplinary environment
- Knowledge of inclusivity and gender-sensitive approaches in communication
Application Information
Applicants are encouraged to apply early.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted due to the high number of applications.
For further details please see the UNITAR’s website.
