Duration of the contract 6 months Indicative contract starting date 01 November 2025 Deadline for submission of applications 01 October 2025 Organizational Unit Social Development Programme Unit (SDPU) Number of job positions 1 AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION/THEMATIC AREAS
Graphic design, multimedia arts, digital animation, video and audio editing, illustration, social media content creation
OVERVIEW (QUICK DESCRIPTION)
The Social Development Programme Unit (SDPU) of UNITAR provides training to local actors to enhance their capacity to achieve sustainable development in their areas of influence, with a particular focus on the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2030. At the core of the training activities are workshops and seminars, many of which are implemented through a network of regional training centres for local authorities and leaders – the CIFAL Global Network – as well as e-learning courses. In addition, there are training activities directly implemented by the SDPU team.
GENERAL OBJECTIVES OF THE CONTRACT
Based out of the UNITAR HQ in Geneva, Switzerland, the main objective is to support the Programme Unit’s projects and activities through graphic design and related needs. Under the direct supervision of the Senior Programme Specialist, the Trainee shall undertake tasks related to graphic design for projects of the programme unit.
RESPONSIBILITIES/DESCRIPTION OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
1. Brand Design: Following UNITAR branding guidelines and ensuring all graphic materials are aligned with UNITAR branding policies and guidelines
2. Coordination: Managing multiple design tasks and projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines. Maintaining organized files and documenting design processes for future reference.
3. Graphic Design: Create a variety of graphic design assets, including logos, presentations, documents, publications, posters, banners, and other visuals.
4. Digital Content: Design engaging graphics for project-related websites, social media, and multimedia presentations, optimizing content for online platforms.
5. Illustrations and Icons: Develop custom illustrations and icons to clarify project-related concepts and enhance educational materials.
6. Publication Layout: Design visually appealing layouts for project-related documents and publications, adhering to accessibility and readability standards.
7. Data Visualization: Transform data into clear, engaging visuals-such as charts, graphs, and maps-to support training, education, advocacy, and public awareness campaigns.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
8. Enhance professional skills in project management and content development
9. Gain hands-on experience in working in an UN agency
10. Gain deeper understanding of UNITAR and its work.
11. Enhance their creative and logical skills in assisting training portfolios and external communications
12. Develop a professional network.
13. Enhance their social and teamwork skills to adapt to change and embrace diversity, especially with colleagues, participants, and stakeholders from diverse background
REPORTING STRUCTURE
The trainee will report to Ms. Estrella Merlos Castaneda, Senior Programme Specialist, Social Development Programme Unit, Division for People.
MISCELLANEOUS FEE
A monthly stipend of CHF 900.
MEASURABLE OUTPUTS AND DELIVERABLES
14. Content is delivered within the deadlines allotted.
15. A creative approach to the tasks above while maintaining a consistent visual identity for projects, in compliance with UNITAR’s branding guidelines.
INDICATORS FOR EVALUATION OF RESULTS
16. All assignments are delivered within an agreed timeframe
17. All deliverables are of high quality
18. Timely and quality of interactions with colleagues
COMPETENCIES
Professionalism: Ability to follow up on project work-plan. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations; takes responsibility for incorporating gender and inclusivity perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women.
Planning and organizing: Excellent planning, organizational skills, attention to detail, ability to prioritize own work, delivering results and quality work, including when working under pressure.
Communications: Excellent communication skills (spoken, written and presentation), including the ability to draft/edit a variety of written documents. Ability to evaluate information needs and to provide appropriate and targeted information accordingly.
Technology awareness: Fully proficient in computer skills, with ability to use a variety of software and applications.
Teamwork: Strong interpersonal skills; ability to deal effectively with multiple constituencies and to establish and maintain effective working relations in a multicultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.
FUNCTIONAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
19. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
20. Understanding of HTML or other web design applications; experience in web design or website development is an asset
21. Experience with video and audio editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects).
22. Knowledge of design principles, typography, colour theory, and layout techniques.
23. Understanding of digital content creation and multimedia production.
24. Basic knowledge of animation techniques
25. Basic understanding of learning management systems and educational technologies.
26. Previous experience in graphic design projects.
27. Ability to work in a multicultural, multidisciplinary environment.
28. Proven ability to ensure the effective use of resources.
29. Proven ability to work with a diverse team across different functional areas in different time zones.
Minimum requirements
Education:
30. Applicants must be enrolled in an undergraduate/graduate/postgraduate degree (Within communication, graphic design, visual arts, multimedia design, or a related field)
31. Or recent graduate of the aforementioned (if selected, they must commence the traineeship within two years of graduation)
32. Strong portfolio showcasing graphic design skills, particularly in digital media and multimedia arts.
Languages:
33. Required: Fluency in oral and written English
34. Preferred: Professional proficiency in English and Spanish oral and written communication
35. Asset: Knowledge of another official UN language