Programmes for young professionals

Each year, several UN organisations offer personal career development programmes for talented professionals with limited work experience who wish to pursue a career within their organisation.

These highly competitive but exciting 'young professionals programmes' usually last for one or two years and combine exposure to work in headquarters and the field.

Overview of programmes

Below is an overview of some of the programmes available in the UN. For more details click on the respective programme link in the table.

FAO: Junior Professional Programme

Minimum requirements

32 or younger
Master’s degree
1 year professional experience
Fluent in English plus one official UN language

> More information

UNESCO: Young Professionals Programme

Minimum requirements

32 or younger
Master’s degree
Fluent in English and/or French
National of a non- or under-represented Member State (varies)

> More information

UNHCR: Entry-Level Humanitarian Professional Programme

Minimum requirements

45 or younger
Bachelor’s degree
2 years' professional experience
Fluent in English plus one official UN language

> More information

UNICEF: New and Emerging Talent Initiative

Minimum requirements

Master’s degree
5 years' professional experience
Fluent in English plus one official UN language

> More information

UN Secretariat: Young Professionals Programme

Minimum requirements

32 or younger
Master's degree
Fluent in English or French
National of a non- or under-represented Member State (varies)

> More information

The NETI is a great programme for motivated young professionals. The support provided by UNICEFUnited Nations Children's Fund during the assignment is unique – it really encourages you to consider a long-term career with UNICEF

Nathalie Meyer, Social Policy Officer (NETI), UNICEF, 2016

JPOJunior Professional Officer positions

Switzerland and some other donor countries have bilateral agreements with UN organisations to enable a number of selected young talents to start a career in their organisation.

If you are Swiss, find out about Swiss JPO positions here.

Nationals of other countries can look for opportunities on: