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 pivotal role in this reform, led by an empowered UN Resident Coordinator who represents the UN Secretary-General at the country level. The organization aims to support countries in achieving their development priorities and the SDGs, operating in various countries worldwide with a focus on collaboration and efficiency.

Job Overview:
The Associate Data Specialist is responsible for engaging with various stakeholders, including counterparts, officers, and technical staff, to develop and implement databases, data collection systems, and data analytics that enhance statistical efficiency and quality. This role involves collaboration with external partners, including UN funds, programs, and NGOs, to share information and best practices. The position is crucial for supporting the UN's efforts in monitoring and evaluating development initiatives, contributing to the creation of reports and dashboards, and ensuring data-driven decision-making processes. The Associate Data Specialist will also assist in capacity-building activities and training related to data analytics, ensuring that the UN's data initiatives align with national priorities and frameworks.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Associate Data Specialist include implementing databases and data collection systems, analyzing trends using statistical methods, improving data analytics processes, and developing monitoring and evaluation products for UN frameworks. The role requires tracking progress on data initiatives, creating data visualization outputs, and assisting in data collection and analysis. The specialist will also contribute to capacity-building efforts, conduct training sessions, and support the integration of monitoring milestones into data pipelines. Additionally, the position involves compiling data insights, conducting outcome-level analysis, and identifying gaps in the national statistical system, ensuring that the UN's data efforts are effective and aligned with best practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of sustainable development theories and concepts, with the ability to conduct research, analyze data, and produce reports on development issues. Professionalism, planning and organizing skills, and a commitment to continuous learning are essential. The role requires proficiency in data management and analytics, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.

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

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in translating business requirements into technical solutions is required. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge in database management and data analysis, with experience in quality assurance and data validation being desirable. Familiarity with data visualization tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or R is also advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as French, is considered an advantage. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas: reading, writing, speaking, and understanding.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term limited position with an initial appointment of one year, subject to availability of funds and budgetary approval. The position is open to nationals of Albania only, and candidates residing outside Albania may be considered if no suitable local candidates are found. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce.