The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), through the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme, is inviting qualified professionals in India to apply for the position of Gender Equity Officer. This prestigious full-time national volunteer assignment offers an opportunity to contribute directly to advancing gender equality, social inclusion, and equitable development outcomes for children, adolescents, and communities across India.
Based in New Delhi, this 12-month assignment places successful candidates at the heart of UNICEF India’s efforts to mainstream gender equality across programmes, policies, and institutional operations. The selected volunteer will work closely with UNICEF’s Gender and Development Specialist and support the implementation of gender-focused initiatives across multiple programme sections and field offices nationwide.
For professionals passionate about gender equity, social justice, child rights, women’s empowerment, and sustainable development, this opportunity provides a unique platform to gain hands-on experience within one of the world’s leading international development organizations.
About UNICEF
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is the world’s leading organization dedicated to protecting and promoting the rights of every child.
UNICEF works in more than 190 countries and territories to ensure that children have access to:
- Quality education
- Healthcare services
- Protection from violence and exploitation
- Nutrition and food security
- Safe water and sanitation
- Equal opportunities for growth and development
At the core of UNICEF’s mission is a commitment to equity, ensuring that the most disadvantaged and marginalized children receive the support they need to reach their full potential.
Why Gender Equality Matters at UNICEF
Gender equality is a central pillar of UNICEF’s programming and institutional strategy.
The UNICEF India Country Programme Document (2023–2027) identifies gender equality and equity as cross-cutting priorities that influence all areas of programming and operations.
UNICEF’s gender work is guided by:
- UNICEF Gender Policy (2021–2030)
- UNICEF Strategic Plan (2022–2025)
- UNICEF Strategic Plan (2026–2029)
- Gender Equality Action Plan (GEAP) 2022–2025
- Gender Equality Action Plan (GEAP) 2026–2029
The Gender Equity Officer will contribute to ensuring that these priorities are effectively integrated across UNICEF India’s programmes and state-level interventions.
Position Overview
Job Title
Gender Equity Officer
Organization
UNICEF
Duty Station
New Delhi, India
Assignment Type
National UN Volunteer Assignment
Duration
12 Months
Expected Start Date
July 1, 2026
Work Schedule
Full-Time
Work Modality
Onsite
Number of Positions
1
Application Deadline
17 June 2026
Key Responsibilities
The selected Gender Equity Officer will support UNICEF India’s gender programming efforts across headquarters and state offices.
1. Programme Implementation Support
The volunteer will:
- Support implementation of gender work plans under the 2023–2027 Country Programme
- Assist in coordinating gender-related activities
- Provide technical support to gender focal points
- Facilitate collaboration across programme sections
- Participate in regular coordination meetings
2. Knowledge Management
Responsibilities include:
- Supporting programme documentation
- Maintaining knowledge-sharing systems
- Facilitating communication among gender focal points
- Contributing to publications and reports
- Strengthening information management processes
3. Reporting and Monitoring
The volunteer will:
- Contribute to country, regional, and global reporting requirements
- Monitor gender-related programme results
- Track gender marker implementation
- Coordinate data collection from programme sections
- Support reporting on gender equality outcomes
4. Documentation and Analysis
This area involves:
- Preparing briefing documents
- Supporting programme reviews
- Assisting in annual reporting processes
- Developing analytical reports
- Documenting lessons learned and best practices
5. Strategic Support
The officer will assist with:
- Drafting presentations
- Preparing talking points
- Developing funding proposals
- Creating briefing notes
- Supporting strategic communication efforts
Qualifications and Educational Requirements
Applicants must possess:
Minimum Educational Requirement
A Bachelor’s Degree in:
- Social Sciences
- Development Studies
- Mass Communication
- Related fields
Preferred Qualification
Candidates holding a Master’s Degree in relevant disciplines will be given preference.
Required Professional Experience
Applicants must have:
- At least three years of professional experience at the national level
Relevant experience may include:
- Gender programming
- Social development
- Community development
- Social policy
- Women’s empowerment
- Development cooperation
- Human rights programming
- Youth and adolescent development
Experience with:
- United Nations agencies
- International organizations
- Development partners
is considered an added advantage.
Language Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate:
Required
- Fluent English
Required
- Working knowledge of Hindi
Strong written and verbal communication skills in both languages are highly desirable.
Essential Skills and Competencies
UNICEF is seeking professionals who possess strong technical, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
Professional Competencies
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Professionalism
- Integrity
- Accountability
- Initiative
- Sound judgment
- Confidentiality
- Resourcefulness
Communication Skills
Candidates should have:
- Excellent report writing abilities
- Strong presentation skills
- Advanced drafting skills
- Effective stakeholder engagement capabilities
Technical Skills
The ideal candidate should possess:
- Knowledge of gender equality programming
- Understanding of social development issues
- Experience in programme coordination
- Monitoring and reporting skills
- Documentation and research abilities
Digital Skills
Applicants should be proficient in:
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Email communication
- Internet research
- Database management
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for professionals working in:
- Gender Equality
- Women’s Rights
- Social Work
- Community Development
- Public Policy
- International Development
- Child Protection
- Human Rights
- Education
- Youth Development
- Communication for Development
It is particularly suitable for individuals seeking hands-on experience within the United Nations system while contributing to meaningful social impact.
Volunteer Benefits and Financial Support
Although categorized as a volunteer assignment, the position comes with substantial financial and professional benefits.
Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance
Successful candidates will receive:
INR 70,158.41 per month
This allowance is intended to cover:
- Housing
- Utilities
- Daily living expenses
- Local transportation
Entry Lump Sum
Volunteers will receive:
USD 350 (equivalent in INR)
upon commencement of the assignment.
Relocation Support
Eligible volunteers may receive:
USD 175 at the start and end of the assignment
if relocating from outside commuting distance.
Exit Allowance
Upon successful completion:
USD 120 per month served
will be paid as an exit allowance.
Insurance Coverage
Comprehensive coverage includes:
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Permanent disability insurance
- Malicious acts insurance
Health insurance extends to up to three dependents.
Leave Entitlement
Volunteers receive:
- 2.5 days of annual leave per month
Learning and Career Development
Participants gain access to:
- UNV learning resources
- Professional development opportunities
- Training programmes
- Career advancement support
Living and Working in New Delhi
The assignment is based in New Delhi, India’s capital city and one of the country’s most important political, economic, and cultural hubs.
Living in New Delhi offers:
- Exposure to diverse cultures and communities
- Access to international organizations
- Professional networking opportunities
- Rich historical and cultural experiences
- Modern infrastructure and services
The city provides a dynamic environment for professionals interested in development, public policy, and international cooperation.
Inclusivity and Equal Opportunity
UNICEF and UNV strongly encourage applications from diverse candidates.
The organizations are committed to:
- Gender equality
- Inclusion
- Diversity
- Equal opportunity employment
- Disability inclusion
- Human rights protection
Reasonable accommodation is available for qualified candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment and assignment process.
Why You Should Consider This Opportunity
Working with UNICEF provides an opportunity to:
- Contribute to national gender equality goals
- Support child rights and social justice initiatives
- Gain UN system experience
- Build expertise in development programming
- Work with leading development professionals
- Expand your professional network
- Enhance your career prospects in international development
The Gender Equity Officer position offers both meaningful impact and valuable professional growth for individuals committed to advancing gender equality and social inclusion.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their applications through the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) platform before the closing date.
Application Deadline
17 June 2026
Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible to avoid last-minute technical challenges and to ensure all supporting information is submitted successfully.
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