How to Land a United Nations Consultancy Job: A Comprehensive Guide
United Nations consultancy jobs offer a unique opportunity to contribute to global development and humanitarian efforts while gaining valuable international experience. However, these positions are highly competitive, and understanding the UN consultancy application process is key to standing out. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get a United Nations consultancy job:
1. Where to Find UN Consultancy Posts
UN consultancy opportunities are typically advertised on the following platforms:
- UN Careers Website: The official job portal for the UN (careers.un.org).
- UN Agency Websites: Individual agencies like UNICEF, UNDP, UNHCR, and WHO list consultancy positions on their sites.
- Development Job Boards: Websites like Devex, ReliefWeb, and Impactpool often feature consultancy opportunities with the UN.
- LinkedIn: UN agencies occasionally post vacancies on their LinkedIn pages.
2. What to Include in the UN Consultancy Application
To make your application stand out, focus on the following:
- Tailored Cover Letter: Address the terms of reference (TOR) explicitly. Highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with the consultancy’s objectives.
- Updated CV/Resume: Showcase specific skills and accomplishments relevant to the consultancy. Use keywords from the TOR.
- Technical Proposal: Some posts may require a proposal detailing your approach to the consultancy task.
- References: Provide professional references who can vouch for your expertise.
3. Setting Your UN Consultancy Fee
Consultancy fees vary widely based on experience, location, and the agency. Here’s how to determine yours:
- Research Standard Rates: Check platforms like Devex or consult peers in the field.
- Consider Your Experience: Mid-level consultants typically earn $5,000 to $10,000 USD per month, while senior consultants can earn significantly more.
- Negotiate: Be prepared to negotiate. Agencies may ask for your expected fee in the application or during the interview.
4. Flights and Accommodations
UN agencies generally cover travel and accommodation expenses for consultancies requiring relocation. This includes:
- Round-Trip Flights: Usually booked through the UN travel system.
- Daily Subsistence Allowance (DSA): A stipend to cover lodging, meals, and incidentals.
- Exceptions: Remote consultancies or those based in your home country may not include these benefits.
5. Remote or On-Site?
Consultancy posts can be:
- Remote: Tasks are completed from your home location, often involving virtual meetings.
- On-Site: Based in a specific duty station, typically for roles requiring hands-on involvement.
6. Duration of UN Consultancies
Consultancies are typically short-term contracts, ranging from:
- 3 to 6 Months: Common for project-based assignments.
- Up to 11 Months: The maximum duration for most UN consultancies due to contractual policies.
7. UN International vs. Local Consultancies
UN consultancies can be categorized into international and local roles, each with distinct characteristics:
- International Consultancies:
- Typically open to candidates from any nationality.
- Often involve relocation to a duty station outside your home country.
- Include benefits like flights, accommodation, and a daily subsistence allowance (DSA).
- Require a broader skill set or specialized expertise not readily available in the host country.
- In many countries exempted from income tax, even while serving in your home country
When seeking an international consultancy, look for the following abbreviations in job postings:
- IC: International Consultancy Contract
- IPSA (UNDP): International Personnel Service Agreement
- IICA (UNOPS): International Individual Consultancy Agreement
- SSA: Special Service Agreement (Note that SSA can also be used for local consultancies.)
- Local Consultancies:
- Reserved for candidates residing in the host country or with work authorization there.
- Focus on leveraging local expertise and knowledge.
- Usually do not include relocation benefits or DSA.
- May offer lower consultancy fees compared to international posts.
- Not normally exempted from income tax
When searching for a local consultancy, watch for these abbreviations:
- NC: National Consultancy Contract
- LICA Specialist: Local Individual Consultancy Agreement
- LICA Support (UNOPS): Local Individual Consultancy Agreement
- NPSA (UNDP): National Personnel Service Agreement
- SSA: Special Service Agreement (keep in mind that SSA can also apply to international roles).
Understanding these differences can help you determine which opportunities align with your qualifications and circumstances.
8. Taxation for UN Consultants
Tax obligations depend on your nationality and residency:
- UN Taxes: The UN does not deduct taxes from consultancy fees.
- Self-Reporting: Consultants are responsible for reporting income and paying taxes in their home country.
- Tax Treaties: Some countries have agreements that exempt UN earnings from taxation.
- Seek Professional Advice: If unsure about your tax obligations, consult a tax professional who understands international consultancy income.
9. The UN Consultancy Interview Process
If you’ve been shortlisted for a UN consultancy, prepare for a competency-based interview conducted by a panel. This format focuses on assessing how your past experiences align with the skills and competencies required for the role. Expect questions that ask for specific examples of how you’ve handled challenges or demonstrated key skills.
For tips on excelling in competency-based interviews, check out my post on competency-based interviewing.
10. Pros and Cons of a UN Consultancy Contract
Pros of a UN Consultancy
- Work Environment: As a consultant, you gain the opportunity to work within a UN office, building valuable professional experience and contributing to meaningful projects.
- Compensation: Consultants are typically well-compensated for their expertise, offering a competitive short-term earning potential.
- Networking Opportunities: Being onsite allows you to expand your professional network and demonstrate your skills to decision-makers, which could lead to future assignments.
- Flexibility: Consultancy contracts offer more flexibility than staff positions, exempting you from considerations like geographic quotas or representation constraints.
- Career Exploration: A consultancy is an excellent way to evaluate whether a long-term career with the organization aligns with your goals.
Cons of a UN Consultancy
- Lack of Benefits: Consultants are not eligible for the UN’s benefits package, meaning you’ll need to manage your own health insurance, security, and retirement planning.
- Job Insecurity: Consultancy contracts are temporary, with no guarantee of renewal or extension, and the procurement process can sometimes be lengthy and cumbersome.
- External Applicant Status: Despite working within a UN office, consultants are still considered external candidates when applying for staff positions, which can limit career progression opportunities.
By weighing these advantages and disadvantages, you can make an informed decision about whether a UN consultancy aligns with your career aspirations and personal circumstances.
Final Tips for Success
- Network: Engage with UN professionals through LinkedIn or networking events.
- Be Persistent: Competition is stiff, so don’t get discouraged by rejections.
- Enhance Your Skills: Certifications in project management, data analysis, or other relevant areas can boost your chances.
- Prepare for Interviews: Familiarize yourself with competency-based interviewing techniques and practice answering related questions.
By following this guide and staying proactive, you’ll increase your likelihood of securing a UN consultancy post and embarking on a meaningful career in global development.
Looking for more insights and resources to kickstart or further your humanitarian career? Explore more on The Global Humanitarian Blog for expert advice and actionable tips.
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Please note: the views and opinions expressed on this blog are that of my own and do not represent the opinions of any agency mentioned.