Geneva Programme
Assistants
Message to those who applied for Programme Assistant Positions at QUNO
Geneva for 2012-2013
We received 150 applications for the two Programme Assistant positions at
QUNO Geneva from 1 September 2012. The standard was very high and we
sincerely thank all those who applied for their effort and interest. We have
now conducted interviews with shortlisted candidates and have offered the
positions to two candidates, who have accepted.
QUNO very much appreciates the high level of interest in these
positions. If you feel particularly interested in this type of work, we
would encourage you to consider applying again in one year's time when you
have built your experience, perhaps including a higher degree if you do not
already have one. This especially applies if you are one of those who is
finishing your first degree this year.
If you wish to gain experience of UN institutions and QUNO's work in Geneva,
you may also be interested in the Geneva Summer School, run each July for 2
weeks by QUNO on behalf of Britain Yearly Meeting of Quakers. The
application deadline is in February each year.
What is a Programme Assistant?
The programme assistant (PA) position is a one-year placement that gives a young person the opportunity to live and work in Geneva contributing to the work of the Quaker United Nations Office. QUNO always has at least one PA and Britain Yearly Meeting (BYM) (http://www.quaker.org.uk) funds that position. Other PA positions are offered if specific programme funding is available.
PA duties are split between programme-specific work and helping with the general running of the office. Programme work obviously varies depending on which representative you are working with but you can expect to attend and help to organise meetings in and around the UN, write reports and conduct research, amongst other tasks. Programme assistants usually write and publish research papers or statements and speak at events here in Geneva or elsewhere. PAs should be willing to contribute actively to all parts of QUNO’s work, including general office, catering and domestic duties. The general administration of the office involves the PA in a wide variety of different tasks, from creating and coordinating the Annual Report to organizing lunch meetings for 25 diplomats.
Who can apply for the job?
To apply for a job as a PA you must be eligible to work in the EU or Switzerland and preferably be aged between 21 and 30.
What qualifications do I need?
These posts are open to Friends or those in close sympathy with the Religious Society of Friends.
Programme assistants are an integral part of the staff team at QUNO. A strong interest in international affairs and a demonstrable commitment to building social justice in the world is essential. A degree or the equivalent qualification is usual, and many have a postgraduate qualification. Fluency in English and well-developed computer skills are essential, and knowledge of another UN language is preferred.
Conditions of Service
QUNO pays a salary of approximately 1,400 Swiss francs per month, in addition to covering the costs of housing, health insurance, public transport in Geneva, and the cost of a return ticket to the appointee's home base. In addition, QUNO pays the social costs and benefits required under Swiss law. QUNO follows Swiss custom of a 40 hour work week with 27 days holiday per annum, in addition to Geneva public holidays.
How can I apply?
The next two PAs will start in September 2012, one will focus on Human Impacts of Climate Change, and one on Human Rights and Refugees.
The deadline for applications has now passed. Please visit our website again to learn about future PA opportunities.
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