The World Meteorological Organization is offering internships for students and recent graduates worldwide, with paid placements available in Geneva, WMO regional and sub-regional offices, and remote roles. The programme is relevant for candidates interested in meteorology, climatology, hydrology, geophysical sciences, international administration and related fields, and applications are submitted online for individual internship openings.
Key facts
- The internship programme is open to students and recent graduates worldwide.
- Placements can be based in Geneva, WMO Regional/Sub-Regional Offices or remote.
- Pay depends on location: CHF 1,500 per month in Geneva, CHF 300 per month for remote roles, and a 10% Daily Subsistence Allowance for regional office interns.
- Internships run for a minimum of three months and a maximum of 12 months.
- English is required, and knowledge of a second UN language is desirable.
What does this mean for students and recent graduates?
For students approaching the end of their studies, those who need an internship to complete a programme, and recent graduates aged 21 to 35 with less than two years of relevant experience, the WMO scheme offers a structured route into an international UN setting. The programme is also open to applicants supported by scholarships, governments, NGOs or academic institutions, provided the placement aligns with WMO’s core activities.
Applicants need working knowledge of English, good communication skills and the ability to work in an international, multicultural and multilingual environment. The organization also says interns are expected to gain exposure to WMO rules, UN work processes, mandatory training and stakeholder engagement during the placement.
- Where: Geneva, regional or sub-regional offices, or remote.
- When: Duration is three to 12 months; deadlines vary by opening.
- How to apply: Online through the WMO e-Recruitment site.
What fields are covered?
The internship programme covers meteorology, climatology, operational hydrology, related geophysical sciences and public international administration. WMO says it uses internships to bring in motivated candidates with different experiences and perspectives, while also building links with universities and academic institutions in relevant areas.
How much do WMO interns receive?
Compensation varies by duty station. Geneva-based interns receive CHF 1,500 per month. Remote interns receive CHF 300 per month. Interns in WMO regional or sub-regional offices receive a 10% Daily Subsistence Allowance for 30 days per month. If an internship is funded by a Member State or university, the allowance follows the policy of the sending entity.
Leave and insurance provisions are also set out by WMO. Interns accrue 2.5 days of leave per month, unused leave is not paid out at the end of the internship, and insurance coverage differs depending on whether the internship is based in Switzerland or elsewhere.
What should applicants know before applying?
To be eligible, candidates must be students or recent graduates related to WMO’s core activities. Recent graduates must be between 21 and 35 years old and have fewer than two years of relevant work experience. WMO also notes that applicants may qualify if they are nearing the end of their studies, need an internship to complete their degree, hold an internship scholarship, or are sponsored by a governmental, non-governmental or academic entity.
