
UNOPS Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 157 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Which role are you interviewing for?
30 roles · 157 reportsCandidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at UNOPS.
Finance Associate
The hiring process was quicker than I anticipated since I was already employed as a finance clerk within the same agency. However, due to policy, anyone seeking a higher-level position must go through the application and selection process. The whole thing took about a few months.
- What do you know about IPSAS?
- Can you discuss UN Financial rules and regulations?
- Explain your understanding of internal controls.
Retainer
So, first thing is the online application, you send in your resume, cover letter, and anything else they ask for. If they like it, they'll call you for an online interview, probably over video. It's all about competencies, so they want to hear about stuff you've actually done, how you handled things, and what you know. They really like the STAR method - Situation, Task, Action, Result. They'll ask about things like problem-solving, talking to people, teamwork, leading, and rolling with the punches. Plus, some technical questions for the job might come up.
- Could you tell me about your involvement in humanitarian activities?
- Can you share an instance where you successfully navigated a challenging problem?
- Provide an example of a time you demonstrated strong communication skills in a high-pressure environment.
Project Analyst
The interview was calm, everyone was very polite and friendly. It was based on the STAR method and conducted online. I got feedback after a long time, but at least they got back to me. After a while, they also called me for another job opportunity, I guess because I was on the bench. I found the interview a bit unprofessional, the manager seemed impatient to finish, and the other assistant seemed afraid of her, so she didn't say anything. And to this day, I haven't received a response. I think it depends on the project and the role. I think it depends on the project and the role.
- Tell me about a project where you made a mistake and what you learned from it.
Program Manager
So after getting past the initial screening, I had to do a written test. It was pretty complex. I think I made it to the last stage. Before the interview, they made me do a JSL personality test. I got to the interview stage. The whole thing took 10 months, which felt like forever, especially since they said the role was urgent. They didn't give much info or support for the interview, which was a bummer considering how long it took. Honestly, I had a really bad experience and won't be applying again.
- Tell me about your innovation skills, using our competencies framework as a guide.
UNOPS Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from UNOPS interview reports.
“A girl... so you don't want to make decisions and would like to buy a new dress?”
Read reports →“What's in your handbag and portfolio, and why do you carry so many accessories?”
Read reports →“Looking back at the end of your working life, what elements must have been present for you to consider your career successful?”
Read reports →“Can you tell me about the software you use for content management and progress tracking?”
Read reports →“How would you manage multiple tasks if you had limited time to complete them?”
Read report →“Is there anything interesting in your diary that you were reading before the interview?”
Read report →“Given a specific situation, what would be the cause and how would you resolve it?”
Read report →“You stated you worked with contract claims. What was that like? Was it similar to a courier service?”
Read report →“Tell me about a time you had to change your plans to achieve a goal.”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 157 UNOPS interview reports.