Expected Timeline
Based on the position grade (unknown), contract type (Other), and UNHCR's typical recruitment process.
Apply9d left
Screening2-4 weeks
Assessment2-4 weeks
References1-2 weeks
Offer2-4 weeks
Apply
9d left
Screening
2-4 weeks
Assessment
2-4 weeks
References
1-2 weeks
Offer
2-4 weeks
Estimated total process: 2-4 months
Note: UN recruitment timelines vary significantly. Some positions may take longer due to roster reviews, budget approvals, or geographic representation considerations.
Assessment Predictor
Based on the grade level, contract type, and position profile, expect the following evaluations:
Written TestCompetency-Based InterviewTechnical InterviewPresentation / Case StudyLanguage Assessment
Competency-Based Interview (CBI)
The UN uses the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare 2-3 concrete examples for each competency listed below. Focus on recent professional experiences (last 5 years).
Competency Breakdown
These competencies were extracted from the vacancy announcement. Prepare STAR-format examples for each.
CoreCommunication
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a time when you had to convey complex technical information to a non-specialist audience. How did you adapt your message and what was the outcome?
CoreTeamwork
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a situation where you worked with colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds to achieve a shared goal. What was your specific contribution?
CoreAccountability
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you took responsibility for a mistake or an unsuccessful outcome. What steps did you take, and what did you learn?
CoreContinuous Learning
STAR Method Prompt:Give an example of how you actively sought to develop new skills or knowledge relevant to your work. How did you apply what you learned?
CoreCommitment to Continuous Learning
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a time when you proactively identified a gap in your professional knowledge and took concrete steps to address it. What was the impact on your work?
ManagerialBuilding Trust
STAR Method Prompt:Describe how you built trust with a skeptical stakeholder, partner, or team member. What specifically did you do and how did the relationship evolve?
ManagerialJudgement
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a complex decision you had to make with incomplete or ambiguous information. How did you reason through it?
ManagerialDecision Making
STAR Method Prompt:Give an example of a high-stakes decision you made under time pressure. What process did you follow and what was the result?
ManagerialManaging Resources
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you had to deliver results with limited financial, human, or material resources. How did you prioritize and optimize?
FunctionalAnalytical Thinking
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you analyzed a complex or ambiguous problem and developed a clear recommendation. What was your approach?
FunctionalProgramme Management
STAR Method Prompt:Give an example of how you managed a large programme with multiple workstreams, partners, and timelines. What were the key challenges and how did you handle them?
FunctionalProject Management
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a project you managed from inception to completion. What were the main risks, and how did you keep it on track?
FunctionalResults-Based Management
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a time when you introduced or applied results-based management principles to a programme. How did you define success indicators and use them to course-correct?
FunctionalNegotiation
STAR Method Prompt:Give an example of a negotiation involving parties with significantly different interests. How did you reach a mutually beneficial outcome?
FunctionalConflict Resolution
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a workplace conflict you helped resolve. What was the situation, how did you intervene, and what was the lasting outcome?
FunctionalPolitical Awareness
STAR Method Prompt:Give an example of a situation where understanding the political context — organizational, national, or international — was essential to achieving a good outcome.
FunctionalCapacity Building
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you built the capacity of colleagues, counterparts, or partners. What methods did you use and what was the lasting impact?
FunctionalCoordination
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a time when you coordinated activities across multiple teams, offices, or organizations with different mandates. How did you keep everyone aligned?
Required Skills & Technical Knowledge
Programme ManagementProject ManagementCapacity BuildingProtectionOperations ManagementProgram ManagementSupport Results Based ManagementLicenses Programme ManagementBased ManagementData ManagementUndergraduate DegreeGraduate DegreeDoctorate DegreeSound Knowledge Of Results Based-managementField OperationsJoint Needs AssessmentsThe Principles Of TargetingCoordination Within An Inter-agency ContextOther ActorsIn A RefugeeOversee a timely and effective follow
Position Profile
| Grade | — |
| Seniority | Unknown |
| Role Type | Programme Management |
| Contract | Other |
| Education | — |
| Experience | — |
| Languages | Portuguese |
Preparation Checklist
- Prepare 2-3 STAR stories for each competency (18 total)
- Research UNHCR's latest strategic plan and priorities
- Prepare a concise 2-minute "Tell me about yourself" response
- Read recent news and developments about UNHCR
- Prepare 3-4 questions to ask the interview panel
- Review the UN common system values and organizational culture
Pro Tips
- UN interviews are competency-based — they ask for specific examples, not hypothetical scenarios.
- Use the STAR method: Situation → Task → Action → Result.
- Show how your experience aligns with the UN values: integrity, professionalism, respect for diversity.
- Be specific and quantify your achievements when possible.
- Mention experience working in multicultural environments — it's highly valued.