The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme, in collaboration with UNOPS Bangladesh (UNOPS BGD), has announced an exciting opportunity for young professionals interested in research, sustainability, and development work.
UNOPS Junior Research Assistant (UN Volunteer – Youth) in Bangladesh: A Unique Opportunity to Support Sustainable Construction and the SDGs
The Junior Research Assistant assignment is a national UN Youth Volunteer position based in Dhaka, Bangladesh, offering hands-on experience within a UN operational environment while contributing directly to Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
This six-month, full-time, onsite assignment, with the possibility of extension, is ideal for early-career graduates in Architecture or Civil Engineering who are passionate about green building, low-carbon materials, and sustainable urban development.
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About UNOPS in Bangladesh
UNOPS has been active in Bangladesh since 2003, establishing a formal representation in 2014 to strengthen its support to the Government of Bangladesh and development partners.
The organization focuses on resilient infrastructure, programme and project management, procurement, human resources, financial management, and capacity building, all with the overarching aim of supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Through its work, UNOPS plays a key role in improving community resilience, strengthening national institutions, and promoting sustainable development practices across the country.
Project Context: Transforming the Built Environment
The Junior Research Assistant will support the project titled “Transforming the Built Environment through Sustainable Materials.” This initiative aims to promote circularity, low-carbon construction materials, and sustainable building practices in Bangladesh.
UNOPS is working closely with major national institutions, including:
- Housing & Building Research Institute (HBRI)
- Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK)
- Public Works Department (PWD)
- Local Government Engineering Department (LGED)
The project focuses on research, capacity development, policy support, and demonstration of environmentally responsible construction materials. As part of this effort, the Junior Research Assistant will provide research, documentation, and coordination support to technical experts and national stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities and Tasks
Working under the direct supervision of the Project Manager, and in close coordination with UNOPS experts and HBRI, the UN Volunteer will carry out a wide range of responsibilities, including:
Research and Technical Support
- Supporting studies on green building certification, low-carbon construction materials, energy and building modelling, and life-cycle carbon analysis (LCA)
- Reviewing literature, standards, building codes, and green rating systems
- Assisting with data collection through stakeholder interviews, field observations, and documentation
- Preparing research summaries, analytical notes, and data tables
Writing, Reporting, and Documentation
- Contributing to technical reports, methodologies, policy briefs, and recommendations
- Drafting meeting minutes, project briefs, and stakeholder consultation notes
- Supporting scripts for project videos, documentaries, and social media content
- Assisting with formatting, quality assurance, and final submission of deliverables
Communication and Presentation Support
- Developing presentations, infographics, and visual summaries
- Preparing short articles, event briefs, and outreach materials
Project Coordination and Event Support
- Assisting in the organization of workshops, seminars, hackathons, and training sessions
- Supporting logistics, invitations, schedules, and follow-ups
- Preparing event documentation and reports
Administrative and Project Support
- Maintaining filing systems and tracking deliverables
- Coordinating with experts and stakeholders
- Supporting procurement and administrative processes
- Monitoring deadlines and assisting with multiple priorities
Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for this assignment, applicants must:
- Be nationals, legal residents, or refugees in Bangladesh
- Be aged 18 to 80 years
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or Civil Engineering
- Have at least one year of relevant experience
- Be fluent in English and a native speaker of Bengali
Required competencies include accountability, teamwork, communication, planning and organizing, creativity, professionalism, and adaptability. Strong research skills, proficiency in Google Workspace and MS Office, and the ability to manage multiple tasks are essential.
Preferred qualifications include experience or coursework in green building, sustainable design, energy modelling, life-cycle assessment, event coordination, or prior exposure to UN agencies, government institutions, or development partners.
Living and Working in Dhaka
Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is the country’s political, cultural, and economic hub. Located along the Buriganga River, the city offers access to medical services, educational institutions, historical sites, green spaces, and a growing international community.
While the city is rapidly developing, volunteers should be prepared for a busy urban environment and some limitations in mobility.
The working language of UN agencies is English, while Bengali is the official language. The climate is tropical, with hot and humid summers and cooler, drier winters.
Why This Opportunity Matters
This Junior Research Assistant role offers young professionals a chance to gain practical UN experience, work on cutting-edge sustainability projects, and contribute to national and global development goals. It is a valuable stepping stone for those aiming to build a career in sustainable infrastructure, research, urban development, or international development cooperation.
Importantly, the UN emphasizes that no fees are charged at any stage of the recruitment process, and applicants are encouraged to remain vigilant against recruitment scams.
For motivated young professionals in Bangladesh, this UN Volunteer assignment represents a meaningful opportunity to make an impact while building a strong foundation for a future career in development and sustainability.
