New Job Opening: Associate Communication Officer At UNESCO (Paris HQ) – Apply By Sept 22

0 247 4 minutes read

UNESCO is currently inviting applications for the position of Associate Communication Officer (Communications and Public Engagement), based at its headquarters in Paris, France. This exciting opportunity, open to both internal and external candidates, offers a two-year fixed-term contract with the possibility of renewal. Applications close on 22 September 2025 (Midnight, Paris time).

ALSO READ: Lead Change With Data: Apply Now For The 2026 World Bank Government Analytics Fellowship Program

This role is part of the Division for Communications and Public Engagement (CPE) and is graded at P-1/P-2 level. It represents an excellent entry point for communication professionals eager to contribute to UNESCO’s global mission of promoting peace, sustainable development, and international cooperation through education, science, culture, and communication.

Table of Contents

Role Overview

Working under the authority of the Director of CPE and the supervision of the Senior Communication Officer for Strategic Planning, the Associate Communication Officer will play a vital role in strengthening UNESCO’s communication and engagement strategy.

The position focuses on ensuring effective information flow between headquarters and field offices, supporting campaigns, managing engagement events, and enhancing UNESCO’s visibility globally. The selected candidate will also provide administrative and coordination support, contributing to the division’s strategic planning and operational efficiency.

ALSO READ: Apply Now: 2025 UNFPA Data Analytics Internship – Remote, Paid Stipend

Key Responsibilities

The role encompasses several areas of responsibility, including:

1. Coordination

Supporting the management and planning of CPE’s communication activities.
Facilitating inputs and contributions from various UNESCO sectors and divisions, especially field offices.
Liaising with communication officers worldwide to gather stories, beneficiary testimonies, and content for press, digital platforms, and internal communications.
Assisting in internal coordination to ensure timely delivery of outputs and operational efficiency.

2. Backstopping and Administrative Support

Organizing and facilitating administrative work within the division, including supervising junior administrative assistants.
Managing budget, procurement, contracts, and extrabudgetary funds in compliance with UNESCO standards.
Monitoring progress, identifying priorities, and reporting regularly to the Director.
Assisting in work plan development for regular and extrabudgetary programmes.

3. Content Development and Updating

Producing content for UNESCO’s website, social media channels, and calendars of events.
Supporting the technical maintenance of communication platforms, including updating texts, translations, and visuals.

4. Monitoring and Communication Analysis

Preparing reports and analysis to support evidence-based decision-making.
Monitoring communication activities and producing insights on global trends, best practices, and innovations in strategic communication.

5. Internal Communications

Developing information materials to promote a unified culture within UNESCO.
Sharing updates on CPE activities across headquarters and field offices to ensure transparency and organizational coherence.

ALSO READ: Join Chatham House: Programme Manager Role In Environment And Society Centre(ESC) 2025

Required Qualifications

Education

Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in communication, public administration, international relations, languages, or related fields.
A first-level degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.

Professional Experience

At least two years of relevant professional experience in communication, with at least one year at the international level preferred.
Demonstrated experience in coordinating communication activities, project management, and administrative support.
Experience producing website updates and event-related content.

ALSO READ: World Bank Treasury Summer 2026 Internship: Applications Open August 2025 with Stipend Support

Skills and Competencies

Strong organizational, multitasking, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent ability to synthesize and present information clearly.
Flexibility, adaptability, and strong cultural sensitivity.
Proficiency in MS Office, Outlook, Excel, and digital collaboration tools (e.g., MS Teams, Trello).
Strong interpersonal and communication skills for teamwork in a multicultural environment.

Languages

Excellent command of English or French (written and spoken) with a good working knowledge of the other.
Knowledge of additional UNESCO languages (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish) is an asset.

Desirable Qualifications

Prior experience in budget management, procurement, and administrative processes.
Familiarity with Content Management Systems (CMS), particularly Drupal.
Work experience within the UN system or international organizations.

Benefits and Entitlements

The annual starting salary for this post is approximately USD 68,555, along with a comprehensive package of benefits. These include 30 days of annual leave, medical insurance, pension plan, family allowance (if applicable), and other entitlements.

ALSO READ: The Fully Funded Chevening Clore Fellowship (2025–2026): Elevate Cultural Leadership

Recruitment Process

Applicants must submit a complete online application via the UNESCO Careers website before the deadline of 22 September 2025. The selection process will include assessments, written tests, and interviews, which may be conducted virtually. Reference checks will be carried out for shortlisted candidates.

UNESCO is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its recruitment. The organization particularly encourages applications from under-represented Member States, minority groups, indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities.

ALSO READ: PEC-PG: Fully Funded Brazil’s Prestigious Graduate Scholarships For Global Scholars 2025

Why Apply?

This role offers a unique opportunity to join an international organization at the forefront of global education, science, culture, and communication initiatives. The Associate Communication Officer will gain hands-on experience in strategic communication, international engagement, and organizational management while contributing to UNESCO’s mission of building peace through international cooperation.

With its dynamic work environment, commitment to professional growth, and dedication to global impact, this position is well-suited for early-career communication professionals aspiring to advance in the UN system.

👉 Application Deadline: 22 September 2025 (Midnight, Paris Time).
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early via the UNESCO Careers Portal.