The World Meteorological Organization (WMO), a specialized agency of the United Nations, has announced an exciting internship opportunity for 2026 within the Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF) Secretariat. This internship is ideal for students and recent graduates passionate about climate change, meteorology, international development, and global cooperation.
Based in Geneva, Switzerland, this one-year internship offers hands-on experience at the heart of global efforts to strengthen weather and climate observation systems, particularly in developing countries.
About the World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
WMO plays a critical role in promoting international cooperation in atmospheric science, climatology, hydrology, and geophysics. Through its work, WMO supports countries in improving weather forecasts, climate services, and disaster risk reduction. By facilitating data exchange and strengthening national meteorological and hydrological services, WMO contributes directly to sustainable development, climate resilience, and the protection of lives and livelihoods worldwide.
As part of the UN system, WMO is committed to diversity, inclusion, and gender balance. Applications are welcomed from qualified women and men, including persons with disabilities, who meet the eligibility criteria.
Understanding the Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF)
The Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF) was established following endorsement by the World Meteorological Congress in 2021. It is a UN Multi-Partner Trust Fund, created jointly by WMO, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). SOFF became operational in July 2022 with a clear mission:
To support developing countries—especially Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS)—in generating and internationally exchanging basic weather and climate observations in compliance with the Global Basic Observing Network (GBON).
SOFF focuses on addressing long-standing gaps in observational data, which are essential for accurate weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and early warning systems. The SOFF Secretariat is hosted by WMO in Geneva and operates under WMO regulations and administrative procedures. It is guided by a Steering Committee and supported by a small, dynamic team of professionals.
Internship Overview
- Vacancy Notice Number: INTERNSHIP-2025-SOFF 3
- Duty Station: Geneva, Switzerland
- Commencement Date: 2 February 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter)
- Duration: 1 year (2 February 2026 – 31 January 2027)
- Application Deadline: 8 January 2026
- Organizational Unit: SOFF Secretariat, Executive Management Department, WMO
This internship is designed for candidates aged 18 and above, with the maximum age allowing completion of the internship before the mandatory separation age of 65.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The selected intern will be part of the SOFF Operations Team, reporting to the SOFF Programme Management Officer and working closely with other members of the Secretariat. The role offers broad exposure to portfolio management, monitoring and evaluation, data management, and international coordination.
Key responsibilities include:
- Portfolio Coordination:
Supporting the coordination of the SOFF Readiness Phase portfolio, including oversight of key outputs such as GBON National Gap Analyses, National Contribution Plans, and Country Hydromet Diagnostics. - Monitoring and Reporting:
Assisting in monitoring both Readiness and Investment Phases by reviewing and consolidating semi-annual and annual reports from SOFF Implementing Entities, tracking progress, and updating monitoring and evaluation (M&E) dashboards.
- Knowledge and Data Management:
Organizing partners’ reports within SOFF databases, supporting data input and quality checks, and contributing to the maintenance of dashboards and internal systems. - Learning and Capacity Building:
Helping maintain and update the SOFF Learning Moodle platform, which supports knowledge sharing and learning across partner countries.
- Communications Support:
Assisting in the preparation of communication materials based on implementation progress and peer advisory inputs. - Coordination and Administration:
Supporting the organization of meetings, surveys, and schedules related to independent external evaluations and other Secretariat activities. - Additional Tasks:
Performing other related duties as required, contributing to a collaborative and results-driven team environment.
Work Programme and Learning Opportunities
The internship offers a structured work programme that allows interns to gain valuable professional experience in a multilateral environment. Interns will contribute to:
- Portfolio management of Readiness and Investment Phase activities
- Monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of climate finance initiatives
- Drafting reports, briefing notes, and Steering Committee documents
- Managing operational data and supporting analytical work
- Collaborating with international partners, experts, and UN agencies
This exposure makes the internship particularly valuable for those considering careers in international organizations, climate policy, development finance, or environmental governance.
Required Qualifications
Education:
Applicants should hold at least a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, Environmental Science, Climate Studies, Disaster Risk Management, or a related field. A Master’s degree is considered an advantage.
Experience and Skills:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
- Experience working on climate change-related projects or programmes
- Exposure to development projects or climate finance, particularly in developing countries, is an asset
- Experience in international or multicultural contexts
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Additional Requirements:
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Demonstrated interest in climate change, meteorology, or international development
Languages:
Excellent command of English is required. Knowledge of other WMO official languages—Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish—is an advantage.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online only through the WMO e-recruitment system. Candidates are advised not to submit applications through multiple channels. Only applicants shortlisted for further consideration will be contacted, and the selection process may include a written test and/or interview.
This internship represents a unique opportunity to contribute to global climate resilience efforts while gaining practical experience within the United Nations system.
