UN Associate Data Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was restructured under the leadership of the UN Secretary-General on January 1, 2019, to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This reform led to the establishment of the UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO), which are tasked with supporting countries in their development priorities. The UN Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was transformed into a stand-alone office responsible for overseeing the resident coordinator system. The DCO is committed to ensuring that the UN system is optimally configured to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda, focusing on data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven organizational culture. The organization operates globally, with a focus on collaboration with national institutions, civil society, and development partners.

Job Overview:
The Associate Data Analyst position is integral to the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in Pretoria, South Africa. This role involves significant interaction with various stakeholders, including UN entities, national institutions, and development partners. The incumbent will be responsible for the development and implementation of databases, data collection systems, and data analytics to enhance statistical efficiency and quality. The position requires the ability to leverage data analyses for decision-making processes, utilizing various data tools to support strategic insights and results-oriented planning. The Associate Data Analyst will also contribute to monitoring and evaluation efforts, ensuring that the UN's commitments to the Sustainable Development Goals are met through effective data management and analysis.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: implementing databases and data collection systems; analyzing trends and patterns in data; improving data analytics processes; developing monitoring and evaluation products; creating reports and dashboards; tracking progress on data initiatives; contributing to data visualization outputs; assisting in data collection and analysis; supporting capacity-building activities; and participating in training sessions on data analytics and results-based management. The role also involves collaborating with various UN entities and stakeholders to ensure effective data-driven decision-making and reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of sustainable development theories and concepts, along with the ability to conduct research and analyze data effectively. The role requires proficiency in data management and analysis, as well as experience in developing training programs for diverse audiences. The incumbent should demonstrate a commitment to gender equality and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential for conveying complex information clearly and effectively.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in fields such as computer science, data science, analytics, statistics, applied mathematics, information management, or social sciences is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in data management, analysis, monitoring, and reporting is required. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in translating business requirements into technical solutions and performing data validation to ensure accuracy and reliability. Experience in using data visualization tools and engaging with UN entities and development partners is desirable, along with project management skills.

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. Knowledge of French is considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position for a duration of one year, with no expectation of renewal. The position is open only to nationals of South Africa, and candidates residing outside the country may be considered if no suitable local candidates are identified. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.