Paid Internship Opportunity at ILO: Digital Transformation of Work Research

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Paid Internship Opportunity at ILO: Digital Transformation of Work Research

Grade: Internship
Publication Date: 07 April 2025
Application Deadline (Midnight Geneva Time): 30 April 2025
Vacancy No.: INTERNROSTER/2025/1/RESEARCH/3
Job ID: 12820
Department: Research
Organization Unit: Research
Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Duration of Contract: 3 to 6 months (starting on the 1st or the 15th of a given month)

The International Labour Organization (ILO) is actively seeking motivated and passionate candidates for its internship program focused on the Digital Transformation of Work Research. This is a unique opportunity for individuals to immerse themselves in cutting-edge research within the backdrop of Geneva’s vibrant international environment. The ILO values fresh perspectives and is eager to welcome interns who are committed to promoting decent work for all.

About the ILO Internship Program

The ILO’s Internship Programme aims to provide students and recent graduates the chance to deepen their understanding of relevant international issues by engaging directly in the organization’s work. Interns will experience how ILO principles and strategies are applied in real-world scenarios, and will gain invaluable practical experience relating to their field of study.

Application Process

Candidates must note the following:

Maximum Applications: Interested individuals are requested to apply for a maximum of three internship profiles; exceeding this limit will lead to automatic disqualification.
Cover Letter Requirement: A cover letter is mandatory for consideration. Attachments such as CVs or resumes will not be accepted.
Withdrawal of Applications: Candidates can withdraw their applications at any time via the Jobs Applied section of their profile.
Application Status Notification: Due to the high volume of applications, the ILO does not individually notify candidates about the status of their application.
Deadline Compliance: Late applications will not be considered under any circumstances.

Inclusion and Diversity at ILO

The ILO is committed to promoting diversity within its workforce. The organization encourages applications from qualified candidates, including those with disabilities and individuals from non- or under-represented member states. Reasonable accommodations will be provided during the recruitment phase and throughout the internship. Candidates facing challenges with the online application process due to a disability can reach out via email at [email protected] for assistance.

Additionally, nationals from non- or under-represented member states pursuing or recently completing studies in their home country may be eligible for support to cover travel costs to Geneva.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for this internship, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:

No Close Relatives at ILO: Applicants should not have immediate family members working with the organization.
Previous Internship Limitation: Previous interns are ineligible for this position.
Educational Status: Candidates must be enrolled in a Master’s or Doctoral program, or must have completed such a program within the past year.
Language Proficiency: A strong command of English (both oral and written) is mandatory.

Department Overview

The internship position will be part of the Research Department of the ILO, which is deeply involved in investigating labor and employment issues. The department’s primary focus is to support policy formulation aimed at promoting decent work worldwide. It engages in analyzing the societal and economic effects of major transformative shifts caused by new technologies, inequality, demographic change, climate challenges, and international trade dynamics.

The Digital Transformation of Work Team is particularly dedicated to examining the implications of digital technologies on labor markets, businesses, and workers. The team studies the intricate landscape of digital labor platforms and algorithmic management and how these elements affect working conditions, especially in developing countries. Interns will gain firsthand experience in assessing the effects of technological advancement on diverse worker populations and will contribute to the exploration of how ILO’s social partners and public policies ensure decent work in the era of digital transformation.

Learning Opportunities

Interns will engage in various tasks that will enhance their skills and understanding, including but not limited to:

Legal Research: Providing factual summaries of judicial decisions from Spain and France, while capturing the legal context, factual circumstances, and outcomes.
Data Collection: Gathering information on judicial developments across Latin America.
Policy Understanding: Enriching knowledge about the ILO’s mandate concerning the platform economy and decent work promotion.
Research Skills Development: Enhancing writing skills through the preparation of working papers, reports, and briefs.
Event Participation: Supporting the organization of ILO meetings, workshops, and conferences.

While the role will incorporate 10% to 20% of administrative tasks, the focus will primarily remain on substantive research efforts.

Candidates’ Profile

Educational Background: Candidates should have a background in Economics, Development Studies, Law, Statistics, or related fields. Candidates should be Master’s degree students or recent graduates.

Experiential Advantages: Prior experience related to the digital economy, platform work, or algorithmic management focusing on labor issues is advantageous but not mandatory.

Language Skills: Proficiency in Spanish is essential, and knowledge of another ILO language (English or French) will enhance your application’s competitiveness.

Essential Competencies: Candidates should demonstrate adaptability to a multicultural environment, effective communication skills, and the ability to collaborate within a team setting.

IT Proficiency: Strong skills in IT applications, particularly knowledge of data analysis software—such as statistical tools—are desirable.

Application Submission

Here are the steps to apply:

Search for Internship Profiles: Visit the ILO Jobs pages to find appropriate internship opportunities.
Create a Candidate Profile: Set up your profile on ILO Jobs.
Submit Your Application: Complete your profile and apply for the desired internship.
Attach Required Documents: Ensure you attach a cover letter before the deadline.

Selection Process

Following a preliminary screening by the Human Resources Development Department, selected candidates will be shortlisted for possible internship opportunities. If you’re shortlisted, expect to undergo a written test or an interview process conducted via various communication technologies.

Stipend and Financial Support

Interns in Geneva will receive a monthly stipend of 2,450 CHF. Those on partial funding from external sources may have the difference covered. Additionally, each intern will receive a monthly contribution towards medical insurance costs. Qualified candidates from non- and under-represented countries may also qualify for special funds to cover travel expenses to Geneva.

Important Considerations

Interns are responsible for their own health and accident insurance during their internship. The ILO does not cover such expenses.

Fraud Warning: The ILO strictly does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and emphasizes the importance of online safety.

This internship provides an incredible opportunity to engage at the heart of global labor issues and contribute to impactful research with an organization committed to promoting decent work worldwide. Interested candidates should ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and prepare their applications thoughtfully before the deadline. Join ILO to be a part of meaningful change in the digital landscape of work.