Associate Data Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was reformed on January 1, 2019, to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO) play a crucial role in this reform, led by an independent UN Resident Coordinator who represents the UN Secretary-General at the country level. The Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was transformed into a stand-alone office within the UN Secretariat, overseeing the resident coordinator system. The DCO aims to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda through data-driven strategies and innovative approaches.

Job Overview:
The Associate Data Specialist is responsible for collaborating with various stakeholders, including data engineers, data scientists, and subject matter experts, to develop and implement databases, data collection systems, and data analytics that enhance statistical efficiency and quality. This role involves engaging with external partners, including UN funds and specialized agencies, to share information and best practices. The position is situated within the UN Resident Coordination Office in Monrovia, Liberia, and reports directly to the Head of the Resident Coordinator Office. The specialist will contribute to evidence-based decision-making by providing analytical support across development, humanitarian, and peace initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be tasked with a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Developing and implementing databases and data collection systems;
• Analyzing trends and patterns using statistical methods;
• Maintaining and quality-assuring databases;
• Creating reports and dashboards for management;
• Documenting methodologies and establishing standards;
• Drafting inputs for various documents;
• Monitoring and analyzing model performance;
• Automating processes and optimizing data delivery;
• Addressing data-related technical issues; 1
• Collaborating with data engineers and scientists; 1
• Conducting data collection and preliminary analysis; 1
• Supporting the design of data science products; 1
• Mentoring staff on data analytics; 1
• Contributing to the production of data products; 1
• Keeping abreast of data analytics trends; 1
• Building capacity through training; 1
• Performing routine data processing; 1
• Contributing to stakeholder communications; 1
• Supporting administrative aspects of the work plan; 2
• Engaging in other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in fields such as computer science, data science, analytics, statistics, applied mathematics, information management, or a related quantitative field. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields is required. A Bachelor's degree may be accepted if accompanied by relevant experience. The educational background should focus on quantitative fields that support data analysis and management.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in data analytics or related areas is required. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions and perform quality assurance on data analysis outputs. Experience in data storytelling and visualization tools is desirable, as is familiarity with data validation processes.

Languages:
English is the mandatory working language for this position, with a required proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered a good-to-have language, enhancing communication within the UN Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term position for an initial period of one year, subject to budgetary approval and availability of funds. The position is open to nationals of Liberia, and candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance. If no suitable local candidates are found, Liberian nationals residing elsewhere may be considered. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.