PUBLIC INFORMATION ASSISTANT

Organizational Context

This role is within the Guided Tours Unit, Visitors Services Section, Outreach Division of the Department of Global Communications at UN Headquarters in New York. The unit handles guided tours, public inquiries, and briefings for nearly half a million visitors annually. The incumbent reports to the Chief of Unit and Section, and the position is temporary, subject to funding and potential extension.

Job Purpose

The Public Information Assistant (PIA-II) is responsible for conducting engaging lecture tours on the UN's history and work across peace, development, and human rights. This involves showcasing UN chambers and exhibits, explaining organizational functions, and participating in specialized briefings. The role requires continuous study of UN materials to stay current. A key aspect is using tact and diplomacy to address visitor questions on sensitive topics, tailoring information to diverse audiences including children, students, VIPs, and media. The PIA-II also manages tour schedules, dispatches tours efficiently, and ensures smooth daily operations, escalating issues as needed. In absence of the Briefing Assistant, they will prepare and conduct daily briefings for other PIAs.

Responsibilities

Conduct one-hour lecture tours on UN history and work in peace, development, and human rights, including explaining Council Chambers and exhibits. Participate in daily and special briefings on topics like peacekeeping and human rights. Research UN materials to stay updated on current activities. Handle visitor inquiries with tact and diplomacy, addressing sensitive political issues effectively and tailoring information to diverse audiences. Plan, schedule, and dispatch tours daily to ensure smooth operations. Distribute daily workload among PIAs, track attendance and punctuality, and ensure tours depart on schedule. Modify daily plans as needed and report operational issues to supervisors. Prepare and conduct daily briefings for PIAs on UN activities and world news when the Briefing Assistant is absent.

Work Experience

Requires at least one year of full-time experience as an official Tour Guide in an International Organization. Extensive experience in public speaking and engaging diverse audiences in a customer service setting within an international organization is necessary. Prior experience conducting tours for children and younger audiences is also required. Experience in a culturally diverse workplace and with the UN system or another international organization is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, Communication (clear and effective speaking/writing, active listening, tailoring messages), Client Orientation (understanding client needs, building partnerships, proactive problem-solving).

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