Geneva Programme Assistants

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) (www.quaker.org.uk) funds that position. Other PA positions are offered if specific programme funding is available.

PA duties are split between helping with the general running of the office and programme specific work. Programme work obviously varies depending on which representative you are working with but you can expect to attend and help to organise meetings, follow UN processes and help with research, amongst other tasks. The general administration of the office involves the PA in a wide variety of different tasks – be prepared to help out with anything and everything, from cooking a lunch for 25 people to creating and coordinating the mailing of Christmas cards!

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 persons in close sympathy with the Religious Society of Friends. 

Programme assistants are an integral part of the small team at QUNO. A strong interest in international affairs and a commitment to building social justice in the world is essential. Fluency in English with a working knowledge of French is prefered, computer skills and a degree or the equivalent qualification are all advantages. Most important of all though is a willingness to contribute actively to all parts of QUNO’s work including general office, catering and domestic duties. A sense of humour can go a lot further than an academic qualification!

Conditions of Service

QUNO pays a salary of Swiss Francs 1,360 per month plus a housing allowance. 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. The days in which the office is closed, other than public holidays, will count as part of the leave allowance.

Travel costs at the start and end of the appointment: The costs of a return ticket to the appointee's home base will be paid.

When can I apply?

We advertise the PA position in the Spring of each year ready for the job to begin in September of the same year. You will be able to download an application form from this page as soon as applications are open.

Learn more about being a PA at QUNO