View Vacancy - Residence Internship - British Embassy Berne (CHEB26-015573)

The British Government is an inclusive and diversity-friendly employer.  We value difference, promote equality and challenge discrimination, enhancing our organisational capability. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law. We promote family-friendly flexible working opportunities, where operational and security needs allow. The FCDO operates an agile workforce and to facilitate this, you may be required to undertake other duties from time to time, as we may reasonably require.
Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (Residence and Support Staff)
Waiter/Household Assistant

The British Embassy in Berne is part of a world-wide network representing British political, economic and consular interests. We are now offering a unique opportunity to join our team as a Residence Intern, a role that blends service excellence with behind-the-scenes insight into diplomatic life.

Why Join Us?

  • Work in a prestigious diplomatic setting with international exposure.
  • Gain hands-on experience in event management and hospitality.
  • Be part of a supportive and multicultural team.
  • Develop skills that will shine on your CV — whether you’re pursuing a career in diplomacy, hospitality, or international relations.

As a Residence Intern, you’ll be at the heart of the Embassy’s social and ceremonial life, supporting high-profile events hosted by the Ambassador. Your responsibilities will include:

  • Preparing and serving at official functions — from intimate breakfasts to grand receptions.
  • Assisting with event logistics, table settings, and guest service.
  • Supporting the Head of Housekeeping & Service and occasionally stepping into their role.
  • Collaborating with the Chef on event prep and admin.
  • Managing sound and IT systems during events.
  • Helping with housekeeping, seasonal decorations, and the overall presentation of the Residence.
  • Playing a key role in organising the annual King’s Birthday Party Reception — one of the Embassy’s most prestigious events.

We are seeking a motivated and reliable individual who:

  • Has a keen interest in hospitality, events, or diplomacy Demonstrates attention to detail and strong organisational skills;
  • Is proactive, adaptable, and able to work as part of a team Communicates confidently in a professional environment;
  • Is willing to take a hands-on approach in a dynamic setting.

This internship offers a valuable opportunity to:

  • Build practical experience in a high-profile international environment;
  • Develop core professional skills including teamwork, communication, and event coordination;
  • Gain exposure to diplomatic engagement and protocol.

Apply Now If you are looking for a unique, hands-on internship that offers insight into diplomatic life while building practical skills, we would welcome your application. 

Our ideal candidate shows:

  • Full professional proficiency in English, both verbal and written, (a minimum of C1 level, according to CEFR*);
  • Previous experience in hospitality (hotel, restaurant, catering, or similar);
  • Able to work independently, self-initiative;
  • Friendly, proactive, and professional, with a strong sense of discretion;
  • A team player with excellent communication and customer service skills;
  • Comfortable using Microsoft Office and basic IT systems;
  • Legally entitled to live and work in Switzerland. 

Nice to have:

  • Current students of Hospitality or a related field at an undergraduate level, or being a recent graduate;
  • Knowledge of German and/or French language;
  • Willingness to share their knowledge on Hospitality related topics, with a particular focus on beverages, to support team development and continuous learning. 
Changing and Improving, Delivering at Pace, Managing a Quality Service, Working Together
1 October 2026
Internship
Intern
40
Europe, Eastern Europe & Central Asia
Switzerland
Berne
British Embassy
1
CHF
monthly
2,190
2 November 2026

This is a full-time, internship contract of 40 hours per week inclusive of four compulsory 45-minute lunch breaks.  

Embassy opening hours are 0730 – 1830 hrs (Monday – Thursday) and 0730 – 1330 hrs (Friday).   

Gross monthly Stipend / Allowance is CHF 2,190. The annual leave entitlement is 25 days per year, increasing to 30 days over 5 years, and the Embassy also enjoys 13 Swiss/ UK public holidays per year. These are prorated.

The successful candidate will be subject to professional background and security clearances before a contract is offered.  

FCDO is committed to continual learning and development. The Embassy will provide funding in line with L&D requirements, and a variety of learning and development is provided throughout the year both directly at post and virtually through the FCDO International Academy. There will be opportunities to attend training, lectures etc. on the job.   

Visa/work permit requirements: The successful candidate must have pre-existing work authorisation for Switzerland in order to apply. All applicants should have the right to live and work in Switzerland.   

Equal employment  

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, colour, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability or gender identity. We particularly encourage applications from candidates with protected characteristics. FCDO want to maximise the potential of everyone who chooses to work for us, regardless of their background. 

Please note that the deadline for applications is 23:55 on the day mentioned in the above field “Application deadline”.

We advise you to allow enough time to complete and submit your full application, since only applications completed and submitted before the deadline will be considered.

Please be aware that the deadline for submitting applications is considered to be the time zone for the country where the vacancy has arisen.

The British Diplomatic Missions will not be able to meet the travel costs incurred when travelling to the interview, nor the costs connected with relocation if offered a job.

*Please note for more information regarding the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, please click on the following link CEFR. Please bear in mind in case you are invited for an interview your language skill is going to be assessed.

Please be aware that you will only be able to apply to vacancies for Country Based Staff roles with the British Government through this official tal.net site (operated by Oleeo). Jobs may be advertised on third party websites, however our adverts will always link back to the official tal.net site. If you complete and send an application through any other site, we will not receive it.

This opportunity is closed to applications.