The United Nations (UN) continues to offer prestigious internship opportunities for young professionals and students across the globe. In 2026, one of the most valuable learning opportunities has been announced by the Department of Operational Support (DOS) for the position of Instructional Design Intern – Training Design & Development. This internship is designed for individuals interested in learning and development, human resources training, instructional design, and educational technology.
This role offers hands-on exposure to UN systems, global training initiatives, and modern learning technologies while contributing directly to the organization’s operational effectiveness. Below is a complete and in-depth guide covering job details, responsibilities, eligibility, skills, duration, location, application process, and key benefits of this internship opportunity tt.
Overview of the Internship
The Instructional Design Intern position is offered under the United Nations Internship Programme and is classified at the Internship, I-1 level. The internship is hosted by the Capacity Development and Operational Training Service (CDOTS) within the Department of Operational Support.
Key Job Information
- Job Title: Instructional Design Intern – Training Design & Development
- Job Opening ID: 269491
- Category: Internship (I-1)
- Department: Department of Operational Support (DOS)
- Duty Station: New York
- Work Mode: In-person or Remote (flexible)
- Date Posted: 12 January 2026
- Application Deadline: 22 January 2026
- Expected Start Date: 16 February 2026
- Duration: 3–6 months
This internship is suitable for candidates seeking practical experience in instructional design, digital learning, HR training, and organizational development at an international level tt.
About the Department of Operational Support (DOS)
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The Department of Operational Support plays a critical role in ensuring that the UN Secretariat operates efficiently worldwide. Within DOS, CDOTS is responsible for:
- Operational and functional training
- Language and communication training
- ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system training
- Knowledge management initiatives
- Business process management facilitation
CDOTS is recognized for innovation, digital transformation, and modern learning solutions. Interns working here gain first-hand experience with global training strategies used across UN missions and offices worldwide tt.
Duties and Responsibilities
Under the supervision of a Training Officer, the Instructional Design Intern will support multiple learning and development activities. Key responsibilities include:
1. Training Design & Development
- Supporting the design and implementation of HR-related training programmes
- Assisting in instructional planning and learning strategy development
2. Content Creation
- Developing and updating training materials
- Creating e-learning modules, manuals, and user guides
- Supporting digital and blended learning initiatives
3. Data Analysis & Evaluation
- Collecting and analyzing training data
- Measuring effectiveness of learning initiatives
- Preparing recommendations for improvement
4. Learning Technology & Innovation
- Exploring modern learning tools and technologies
- Recommending digital solutions to enhance training experiences
5. Research & Best Practices
- Conducting research on instructional design trends
- Studying emerging methodologies in learning and development
6. Collaboration
- Working closely with UN staff, trainers, and stakeholders
- Supporting smooth execution of training programmes
This role provides a balanced mix of creative design, analytical work, and strategic learning development tt.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this UN internship, applicants must meet at least one of the following academic conditions:
- Currently enrolled in or completed a graduate programme (Master’s degree or higher), OR
- Enrolled in or completed the final year of a Bachelor’s degree, OR
- Completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programme
Important Notes
- No prior professional work experience is required
- Field of study must be closely related to the internship (Instructional Design, Education, HR, Psychology, Learning Technology, etc.)
- Proof of enrollment or degree completion must be provided
This makes the internship highly accessible for students, fresh graduates, and early-career professionals tt.
Required Skills & Technical Qualifications
Mandatory Skills
- Proficiency in MS Office 365 or equivalent office tools
- Strong written and communication skills
Preferred Skills (Highly Advantageous)
- Instructional design background
- Experience with Articulate 360 or Adobe Captivate
- Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite:
- InDesign
- Illustrator
- Photoshop
- Premiere Pro
- Experience with Moodle-based Learning Management Systems
Candidates with digital learning, multimedia, and content authoring skills will have a strong advantage during selection tt.
Language Requirements
- English: Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory
- Additional UN Languages: Desirable but not required
- Arabic
- Chinese
- French
- Russian
- Spanish
Multilingual candidates may have enhanced opportunities within UN training environments tt.
Internship Duration & Working Arrangements
- Minimum Duration: 3 months
- Maximum Duration: 6 months
- Work Schedule: Full-time or Part-time
- Flexibility: Remote or in-person arrangements possible
Interns must complete the equivalent of:
- At least 2 months full-time, or
- 4 months part-time
Attendance records are maintained to ensure compliance with UN internship policies tt.
Visa & Work Authorization (USA)
For internships based in the United States:
- Non-US citizens may require a G-4 visa
- Interns are responsible for arranging:
- Visa
- Work authorization (CPT/OPT if applicable)
- Travel and accommodation
Candidates should confirm visa eligibility before accepting the offer tt.
Financial Information
- This is an unpaid internship
- The UN does not cover:
- Travel expenses
- Accommodation
- Living costs
Despite being unpaid, the internship offers exceptional global exposure and professional value tt.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online only and must include:
Required Documents
- Cover Note including:
- Degree title and graduation date
- IT skills and software proficiency
- Top three areas of interest
- Why you are the best candidate
- Motivation for joining the UN
- Candidate Profile including:
- Education history
- Skills and competencies
- Past work experience (if any)
- Three references
⚠️ Incomplete applications will not be reviewed
⚠️ Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
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Important UN Policy Notice
The United Nations:
- Does NOT charge any fee at any stage
- Does not request bank details
- Follows strict ethical recruitment practices
Candidates should beware of fraudulent job offers tt.
Why This Internship Is Valuable
This internship offers:
- Real-world experience in global learning systems
- Exposure to UN training frameworks
- Skill development in instructional design & e-learning
- International career credibility
It is an excellent opportunity for candidates aiming for future roles in:
- United Nations agencies
- International NGOs
- Learning & development departments
- HR and training consultancies
Conclusion
The United Nations Instructional Design Intern Recruitment 2026 is a highly competitive and prestigious opportunity for motivated students and graduates passionate about learning, development, and global impact. With flexible work arrangements, exposure to modern learning technologies, and direct involvement in UN training initiatives, this internship can be a powerful stepping stone toward an international career.
Eligible candidates are strongly encouraged to apply before 22 January 2026 and ensure their application is complete and well-structured.
