About the opportunity
The Istanbul International Center for Private Sector in Development (ICPSD) is one of UNDP’s six Global Policy Centers, leading global engagement with the private sector and foundations. ICPSD is seeking a proactive Project Operations Intern to join its office-based team in Istanbul, Türkiye. Under the supervision of the Administrative Associate, the intern will support administrative tasks, procurement processes, financial documentation, archiving, event planning, and human resources activities. The role offers hands-on operational exposure to UNDP systems and procedures in an international development setting.
Salary and benefits
- Monthly stipend in accordance with UNDP Internship Policies (for candidates not financially supported by an outside institution, university, or scholarship)
- Prorated stipend if part-time arrangements apply
- Direct operational experience within the United Nations system, including procurement, HR, and administrative procedures
- Opportunity to work within a multicultural team at a global policy center
Who can apply?
- Must meet one of the following academic criteria at application: enrolled in a postgraduate degree program (master's or higher); enrolled in the final year of a first university degree (bachelor's or equivalent); recently graduated with a university degree within the past 12 months; or enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program
- Field of study in Public Administration, Business, International Relations, Tourism Management, Library, Archive and Information, or related fields
- Strong spoken and written proficiency in both English and Turkish is required
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365 tools and familiarity with SharePoint core functionalities required
- Strong editing and visual design skills, including for social media, required
- Knowledge of French, Arabic, or Russian is an asset
- Previous administrative or operational experience, particularly in a non-profit or international organisation, is an asset
Required documents
- Online application profile and submission
- Official documentation confirming academic status or recent graduation (required upon selection)
- Proof of valid medical and life/accident insurance valid for Türkiye (required upon selection)
When to apply
- Applications opened on October 12, 2026
- Application deadline is November 9, 2026 at 06:00:00 UTC
How to apply
- Review job requirements and verify educational and language qualifications
- Submit your formal application through the UNDP Oracle Recruiting Cloud portal before the stated deadline
- If selected, provide verification of student/degree status and valid medical and life/accident insurance
Additional information
- Position is full-time and on-site at the ICPSD office in Istanbul, Türkiye
- Internship duration ranges from a minimum of 6 weeks to a maximum of 6 months
- Selected interns are responsible for securing their own visas and arranging travel and accommodation; ICPSD assists with documentation submission for Turkish MFA visa and residence procedures
- Interns are not staff members and may not officially represent UNDP
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Current graduate students or recent graduates in public administration, international relations, or business seeking operational entry into the UN system
- Bilingual Turkish and English speakers who excel at organizational workflows, digital archiving, and office administration
- Candidates looking to gain direct insight into private sector partnerships and sustainable development operations in Istanbul
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is strictly office-based in Istanbul, and interns must arrange their own travel, relocation, and housing
- Candidates already receiving third-party financial support (such as a university or government scholarship) may not be eligible for the UNDP stipend
- The internship is limited to a maximum duration of six months and does not automatically convert into regular UN staff employment
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This internship provides immediate, high-value operational experience in UN administration, procurement tracking, and event organization. It is ideal for students or recent graduates aiming to establish professional credibility in multilateral operations, international development, or public administration.
Our take
Strongly suited for bilingual Turkish-English graduate students or recent graduates seeking hands-on UN operational experience in Istanbul. It is less suitable for candidates requiring remote work, visa sponsorship financing, or immediate permanent employment.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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