Public Information Assistant

About the role

The Department of Global Communications is seeking a Public Information Assistant to join the Guided Tours Unit at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. This temporary, full‑time position supports the Visitor Services Section by delivering informative tours and briefings to a diverse global audience.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct one‑hour lecture tours covering UN history, peace and security, development, and human rights.
• Participate in daily and special briefings on topics such as peacekeeping, disarmament, and human rights.
• Research and study UN materials in English to stay current on system activities.
• Handle politically sensitive visitor questions with tact, adapting language for children, students, seniors, VIPs, and media.
• Plan, schedule, and dispatch tours, ensuring smooth daily operations.
• Monitor and record Public Information Assistants’ attendance and punctuality.
• Adjust daily tour plans on short notice and report operational issues to senior coordinators.
• Prepare and lead morning briefings for PIAs when the Briefing Assistant is absent.

Required profile

• Professionalism and pride in work, with strong competence in UN subjects.
• Conscientious, efficient, and able to meet deadlines.
• Excellent diplomatic skills for handling sensitive inquiries.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multicultural environment.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to engage with half a million visitors annually at the UN Visitor Centre.
• Experience in international public information and diplomatic communication.
• Potential for contract extension based on funding availability.