Software Developer Internship at UNDP: A Path to Global Impact and Technological Innovation

March 19, 2025

16 minutes read

Software Developer Internship at UNDP – Detailed Explanation

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is offering a Software Developer Internship in Copenhagen, Denmark as part of its Innovation and IT Management (ITM) team. The internship is focused on software development, business process automation, and data science. It is an opportunity for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in software engineering while working on global projects that support sustainability, renewable energy, and digital transformation initiatives in over 170 UNDP country offices worldwide.

apply herehttp://Software Developer Internship – UNDP

1. Key Details of the Internship

Job ID: 24802
Location: UN City, Copenhagen, Denmark
Duration: 6 months (August 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026)
Work Schedule: Full-time
Application Deadline: April 27, 2025
Language Requirement: Fluent English (additional UN languages are a plus)
Education:
- Enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field
- Recent graduates (within one year of graduation) can also apply

2. Main Responsibilities@vacancyspaces.com

Interns in this role will be involved in a variety of software development, automation, and data analysis tasks. The responsibilities include:

A. Software Development & Automation

Assist in developing web applications and corporate dashboards using PHP, PowerApps, and Power BI.
Work with Microsoft SharePoint and Office 365 to automate business processes.
Support the development of cloud-based business intelligence tools for data visualization and tracking.
Assist in implementing DevOps pipelines and continuous integration (CI/CD) processes.

B. Data Science & Analytics

Clean and analyze data collected from IoT devices used in UNDP Green Energy projects.
Use tools like Python, Power BI, and Excel to extract insights from large datasets.
Help improve internal and external dashboards for decision-making.

C. Innovation & Research

Research and develop new collaboration and business process automation tools.
Experiment with chatbots, decision-making assistance tools, and workflow automation.
Identify new IT solutions that can enhance UNDP’s operations and sustainability efforts.

D. Documentation & Support

Prepare technical documents, user guides, and training materials for UNDP Country Offices.
Provide technical support for tools used in UNDP’s Green Energy and IT programs.
Contribute to the improvement of existing UNDP systems using the Kaizen continuous improvement approach.

3. Required and Preferred Skills

A. Mandatory Skills

Software Development: Experience with PHP, JavaScript, .NET, or similar frameworks.
Data Analysis & Visualization: Knowledge of Excel, Power BI, SQL, and database management.
Microsoft Cloud Technologies: Familiarity with Office 365, SharePoint, and Azure.
Problem-Solving & Teamwork: Ability to analyze issues, propose solutions, and work in a diverse international team.

B. Preferred Skills (Advantageous but not Required)

Web Development: HTML5, CSS, UI/UX principles, responsive design.
Data Science: Python, R, data cleaning, and real-time data processing.
Automation & AI: Chatbots, machine learning, and workflow automation tools.
DevOps & CI/CD: GitHub Actions, Jenkins, Docker, and Kubernetes.
IoT & Green Energy: Experience working with IoT devices and renewable energy systems.

4. Benefits of the Internship

Hands-on Experience: Work on real-world projects in a global development organization.
Networking: Connect with UN professionals, tech experts, and fellow interns from around the world.
Skill Development: Gain experience in software engineering, cloud computing, data analytics, and automation.
International Work Environment: Work at UN City, Copenhagen, a hub for innovation and sustainability.
Career Growth: Learn how technology is applied in international development and humanitarian projects.

5. Internship Stipend & Conditions

Stipend:
- Up to $1,000/month for in-person interns (depending on location and funding).
- Reduced stipend for remote internships.
Other Expenses:
- Interns must cover their own travel, accommodation, and medical insurance.
No Employment Guarantee: This internship does not lead to a full-time job at UNDP, but it is valuable experience for future roles in tech and international organizations.

6. Application Process

To apply, you must submit the following (in a single PDF file):

Cover Letter (in English) – explaining why you are interested and qualified.
CV/Resume (in English) – highlighting relevant skills and experience.

Deadline: April 27, 2025
📩 Submit your application via the UNDP career portal

7. Why Apply for This Internship?

This internship is a great opportunity for students or recent graduates looking to:
✅ Gain experience in international development and ICT solutions.
✅ Work on real-world projects with a global impact.
✅ Build expertise in Microsoft cloud technologies, data science, and automation.
✅ Connect with professionals in the UN and sustainable energy sector.
✅ Improve software engineering skills in an innovative work environment.

If you’re passionate about technology, sustainability, and global development, this Software Developer Internship at UNDP is an excellent opportunity to kickstart your career. 🚀

Would you like help with your cover letter or resume for this position? 😊

Certainly! Below is an expanded explanation of the Software Developer Internship at UNDP, designed to go over 2,000 words while delving deeply into the role, its responsibilities, required skills, and the benefits that come with the internship.

Software Developer Internship at UNDP – Detailed Explanation

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is currently offering a unique opportunity to interns interested in software development, data science, and business process automation through a 6-month internship in Copenhagen, Denmark. The internship is part of the Information and Technology Management (ITM) Unit of UNDP, which provides ICT and Green Energy solutions for UNDP country offices across the globe.

This internship is an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates in computer science, software engineering, or related fields to contribute directly to global development projects while gaining practical experience in an international organization. The UNDP works on the ground in 170+ countries and territories, addressing a wide range of development challenges, including poverty reduction, environmental sustainability, and innovation.

Interns will join a dynamic and collaborative team that is involved in a wide variety of technological innovations, sustainability initiatives, and digital transformation projects that are shaping the future of international development. Interns will be immersed in real-world challenges and will work on cutting-edge technologies and platforms such as Office 365, Power BI, and Microsoft SharePoint. The internship provides an opportunity to work on projects that directly impact the implementation of sustainable development goals (SDGs).

1. Job Overview

Job ID: 24802
Location: UN City, Copenhagen, Denmark
Duration: 6 months (1 August 2025 – 31 January 2026)
Work Schedule: Full-time
Language Requirement: Fluency in English required; knowledge of other UN languages is an advantage.
Application Deadline: 27 April 2025 (midnight CET)
Educational Requirements:
- Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- Recent graduates (within one year of graduation) may also apply.
- Alternatively, applicants enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program can apply.

The internship provides an opportunity for students to bridge the gap between academic studies and the real world by participating in projects that have a tangible impact on the development efforts of the UN and UNDP.

2. Responsibilities and Duties

Interns selected for this position will support the UNDP ITM team and assist in several key projects and initiatives that have a direct impact on UNDP’s global operations. The main areas of responsibility include:

A. Software Development & Automation

One of the key components of the internship will be assisting in the development and enhancement of software tools that are used for business process automation and collaboration within UNDP’s global network. The ITM unit is responsible for providing tools that help various UNDP Country Offices streamline their internal processes, collaborate effectively, and use data-driven insights to make informed decisions. Interns will be expected to:

Develop applications and tools that automate internal processes using PHP frameworks, PowerApps, and Power BI. These applications are designed to improve the efficiency of UNDP operations and enhance collaboration among staff across different regions and countries.
Support SharePoint and Office 365 platforms to enhance internal collaboration tools, including content management and workflow automation. SharePoint is often used for document management, content sharing, and project collaboration across teams.
Work on enhancing existing cloud-based solutions and tools designed for business intelligence and data visualization, ensuring that users have access to real-time, accurate data to inform decisions.
Contribute to the development of dashboards that track key metrics across UNDP’s operations, such as monitoring project progress or financial health.

This work allows interns to engage in hands-on software development, contributing to the design, development, and deployment of enterprise-level applications that support a wide variety of development initiatives.

B. Data Science and Analytics

As part of the internship, interns will gain exposure to data science principles and will work with large datasets to derive insights that contribute to project tracking and monitoring. Data science plays a critical role in decision-making, especially when dealing with international development challenges that require careful analysis and strategic planning. Interns will:

Clean, consolidate, and analyze data gathered from IoT devices installed in UNDP Country Offices as part of their Green Energy Projects. These devices capture important data about energy usage, environmental impact, and other sustainability metrics.
Use Python, Power BI, Excel, and other business intelligence tools to visualize data and create actionable reports that are used by project managers and teams to evaluate project performance and efficiency.
Participate in the development of automated systems that process real-time data and track progress on Green Energy Projects using data science principles and tools.

This will be a valuable learning experience for those who are looking to improve their skills in data cleaning, data manipulation, and the application of data science tools in the development sector.

C. Research and Innovation

Interns will also have the opportunity to contribute to research and innovation by exploring and developing new tools that can improve business process automation and internal communication systems. The goal is to create smarter solutions that support UNDP’s mission of innovation and sustainability. Interns will:

Research and develop new collaboration tools, such as chatbots or decision-making assistance tools using Microsoft Teams, Flow, and Forms. These tools aim to improve communication and collaboration within UNDP teams.
Explore and identify innovative technologies, such as blockchain, machine learning, or AI, that can be integrated into existing UNDP tools for improving workflow, enhancing operational efficiencies, and automating processes.
Participate in the design and implementation of innovative applications that are part of the UNDP Digital Workspace Strategy, which seeks to bring cutting-edge digital solutions to its global teams.

Documentation is an essential part of this role, as interns will contribute to the creation and improvement of technical documentation and training materials. These documents are crucial for sharing knowledge within the UNDP community and ensuring that best practices are passed on to colleagues across different regions. Interns will:

Develop and update user manuals, training guides, and technical documentation for the tools and applications developed during the internship. This will help ensure that the tools are properly used by UNDP staff in Country Offices worldwide.
Assist in the continuous improvement of UNDP’s knowledge-sharing resources, including creating and maintaining knowledge articles on how to use new business process automation tools or software applications.
Help improve existing procedures by contributing to the ongoing Kaizen (continuous improvement) process, ensuring that best practices and operational improvements are shared with the broader UNDP community.

3. Required Skills and Experience

A. Mandatory Skills

The internship is designed for students or recent graduates with a strong foundation in software development, data analysis, and cloud computing. The essential skills and experience required include:

Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in web development languages such as PHP, JavaScript, or .NET.
- Experience with business intelligence tools like Power BI, Excel, or Tableau for creating data dashboards and conducting data analysis.
- Familiarity with cloud technologies, including Microsoft Office 365, SharePoint, and Azure.
- Experience with IoT devices and data visualization tools.
Problem-Solving: Strong ability to analyze problems, consolidate data, and develop practical solutions using modern technologies.
Teamwork and Communication: Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a multicultural team.

B. Preferred Skills

Although not required, the following skills would be advantageous for candidates applying for this role:

Experience in DevOps and Continuous Integration using tools such as GitHub, Jenkins, or Docker.
Knowledge of Python, R, or other scripting languages for data analysis.
Familiarity with machine learning, artificial intelligence, or blockchain technologies for solving complex challenges in the development sector.
Exposure to tools such as PowerShell, InfoPath forms, Nintex Workflows, or PowerApps for application development.

4. Benefits of the Internship

This internship offers numerous benefits for participants:

Exposure to International Development Work: Interns will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects that address global challenges, particularly in sustainable development, ICT, and innovation.
Hands-on Experience: Interns will gain practical experience in software development, cloud computing, data science, and automation that can significantly boost their career prospects.
Professional Networking: Interns will network with professionals in the UNDP, gain insight into international development, and build connections with other interns and experts across UN agencies.
Stipend and Support: Interns will receive a monthly stipend to help with living expenses during the internship period.

5. How to Apply

To apply for the Software Developer Internship at UNDP, candidates must submit:

A cover letter (in English) explaining why they are interested in the position and how their skills align with the internship requirements.
A current CV/resume (in English) that highlights relevant experience and skills.
Both the cover letter and CV should be uploaded as one PDF document.

The application deadline is April 27, 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps, such as interviews.

Conclusion

The Software Developer Internship at UNDP offers a unique chance to make a global impact while gaining invaluable experience in software engineering, data science, and business process automation. This internship is designed for tech-savvy students and recent graduates who are passionate about using technology for sustainable development.

If you have the necessary skills and are excited about the prospect of working in a dynamic international environment, this internship could be an excellent stepping stone in your career. Apply before the deadline and take advantage of this fantastic opportunity to contribute to global development efforts while developing your technical expertise.

Would you like help with tailoring your application materials, or do you have other questions? Feel free to reach out!

Sure! Here’s an even more detailed explanation, continuing from where we left off, and exploring the Software Developer Internship at UNDP from different angles to give a comprehensive view of the role and its impact.

6. The Role of UNDP in Global Development

To better understand the Software Developer Internship, it’s important to recognize the larger framework within which UNDP operates. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s global development network, working in over 170 countries and territories. UNDP’s mission is to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. Their core areas of work include:

Democratic Governance and Peacebuilding: Strengthening the ability of people to have a say in their own governance and improving the quality of public services and institutions.
Climate and Disaster Resilience: Supporting countries to build resilience to climate change impacts and natural disasters while fostering green economy policies and solutions.
Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development: Helping countries achieve growth that benefits all people and protects the environment.
Crisis Response: Offering humanitarian assistance and recovery services after disasters or conflicts.

Each of these focus areas represents a key challenge in the world, and technology is at the heart of how these problems are tackled. The ITM Unit at UNDP supports these efforts by developing software and systems that enhance operational efficiency, improve data management, and drive impactful innovations. For interns, this means they’ll be involved in projects that directly support sustainable development goals (SDGs), ranging from good health and well-being to quality education and affordable and clean energy.

As a Software Developer Intern, you are not just contributing to a tech project; you’re contributing to a much larger mission of global development and social good. Working on tools and systems that streamline and automate business processes means that resources can be directed more efficiently toward the core work of the UNDP, ensuring that development projects across the world are more effective, scalable, and impactful.

7. The Impact of the Internship

The internship provides an opportunity to be part of meaningful change in the world. Here’s how your work can have a far-reaching impact:

A. Streamlining UNDP Operations

UNDP country offices, often located in remote or challenging environments, rely heavily on ICT systems to manage everything from financial transactions to project monitoring. By working on automation tools and collaborative platforms, interns help to reduce administrative burdens and ensure that the staff can focus on high-priority development tasks. A more efficient workflow means faster project execution, better resource allocation, and ultimately more lives impacted.

B. Supporting Country Offices with Digital Solutions

Through the development of tools such as PowerApps, SharePoint, and Power BI, your contributions will directly benefit UNDP Country Offices working on global challenges. For example, automated data collection and reporting tools can simplify complex monitoring systems for Green Energy Projects or disaster recovery projects, providing real-time insights that help project managers make data-driven decisions. Your work will also enhance remote collaboration, which is especially critical for teams spread across multiple countries and continents.

C. Advancing Global Development Goals

Every software solution, every data analysis tool, and every automation project that you work on will have a ripple effect on the UNDP’s larger goals, specifically the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For example:

SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy): By helping develop software to monitor energy consumption patterns, you’ll directly contribute to more efficient energy use and green energy solutions in developing countries.
SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure): By working on cutting-edge tools, cloud-based solutions, and smart technologies, you’ll be contributing to digital transformation and enhancing sustainable infrastructure in developing economies.

Your work will also enhance data visibility, making it easier for UNDP staff to track project outcomes and adjust strategies when necessary. This improves project sustainability and ensures the effective allocation of resources.

D. Career Growth Opportunities

Working with UNDP gives you exposure to international development, where ICT and data science play an increasingly important role in overcoming challenges. Being part of the ITM team will allow you to engage with leading technologies and tools like cloud computing, IoT, and business intelligence platforms, which are highly valued in today’s technology-driven job market.

At the end of the internship, you will have:

Demonstrated experience in building real-world applications that have a direct impact on global development.
An understanding of development sector needs, especially in terms of data management and collaboration.
Experience working with cross-functional, international teams and gaining knowledge in how multilateral organizations operate, which can be a great addition to your resume if you’re pursuing a career in tech for development, international organizations, or social impact.

You will also be in a position to expand your network by interacting with professionals from different countries and backgrounds and by contributing to global conversations on the role of technology in sustainable development.

8. Tools and Technologies You Will Work With

The tools and technologies used by the UNDP ITM Unit are foundational to its work in the digital space. As an intern, you’ll be exposed to a wide variety of cutting-edge technologies used in international development projects, which will significantly enhance your skills.

A. Cloud Computing and Microsoft Tools

Office 365: Widely used within UNDP for document management, collaboration, and team communication. Interns often work with OneDrive, SharePoint, Teams, and other Office tools to create internal collaboration systems and knowledge-sharing platforms.
Microsoft Power BI: A powerful tool used for data analysis, visualization, and reporting. Interns will often be tasked with creating interactive dashboards for tracking key performance metrics or monitoring the success of development projects across various regions.
PowerApps and Power Automate: These tools help create custom apps and automate business processes, which streamline workflows and improve the efficiency of day-to-day operations. For interns, it’s a great way to learn the practical application of low-code development.

SharePoint is a vital tool in helping UNDP maintain a structured, secure repository of documents that are shared across offices and teams globally. Interns will contribute to optimizing and customizing SharePoint sites, making it easier for staff to access, share, and collaborate on important documents in real-time.

C. Collaboration and Communication Tools

Microsoft Teams is a hub for collaboration, where project teams can communicate, share files, and discuss projects in a secure digital space. Interns will contribute to enhancing Teams environments and ensuring smooth communication across teams.
Flow and Forms: Used to automate workflows and collect data via online forms. Interns might work on creating custom forms for project reporting or feedback, streamlining the process of information collection.

D. Data Science Tools

Interns working in data will use a variety of tools for cleaning, manipulating, and analyzing data. The most common tools include:

Excel and Power BI for reporting and data analysis.
Python for advanced data analysis, especially for working with large datasets from IoT devices or environmental monitoring projects.
R may be used for statistical analysis of project data.

E. Programming Languages

Interns will often work with programming languages such as:

PHP or JavaScript for web application development.
HTML/CSS for building user-friendly, responsive interfaces.
C# or Python for backend systems or automation.

9. Challenges of the Internship

While the internship offers an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of technology and international development, it’s important to be aware of the challenges that might arise.

Multicultural Work Environment: UNDP operates in multiple countries with teams from diverse cultural backgrounds. Communication styles, working practices, and priorities can differ, and it can be challenging to navigate different work cultures. However, it’s also a learning opportunity to develop cross-cultural communication skills.
Complex Projects: The complexity of UNDP’s projects can present challenges. Interns may work on large-scale projects with many moving parts. Being able to adapt quickly, manage time effectively, and ask questions when needed is key to success.
Remote Work: Some projects may require you to work remotely or in a hybrid model, especially when collaborating with teams from other regions or during times of crisis. Working across time zones can sometimes be challenging, so adaptability and good communication are essential.

10. Conclusion: A Life-Changing Opportunity

The Software Developer Internship at UNDP offers more than just coding experience—it’s a chance to become part of an organization that is dedicated to changing the world. You’ll gain hands-on experience in the latest technologies, be exposed to the challenges of international development, and contribute to projects that help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

For those interested in combining a passion for technology with a desire to make a global impact, this internship offers a remarkable platform for professional growth and development. Whether you’re looking to pursue a career in tech, international organizations, or global development, this internship is an exceptional stepping stone.

If you would like to explore more details about any specific aspect of the internship or need assistance with your application, feel free to ask!

March 19, 2025

16 minutes read