Technical Specialist (Statistics and Geospatial Analytics)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) was established in 1945 and is dedicated to achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all. The organization operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members worldwide. FAO's mission is to support the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems, contributing to better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind. In Cambodia, FAO aims to assist the government in developing policies, programs, and projects that enhance food security and reduce hunger and malnutrition, while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Job Overview:
The Technical Specialist (Statistics and Geospatial Analytics) plays a crucial role in supporting the FAO's mission in Cambodia by providing technical and analytical support in agricultural data analysis, statistical modeling, and geospatial analytics. This position involves working closely with the FAO Representative and the Technical Team Lead to develop integrated agricultural data systems, enhance data visualization, and support evidence-based decision-making in agriculture. The specialist will also be responsible for capacity development through training sessions and the creation of user-friendly tools for stakeholders. The role requires a strong understanding of data science and its applications in agriculture, as well as the ability to communicate complex data insights effectively to various audiences.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Specialist will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Providing technical and analytical support by developing integrated agricultural data systems, contributing to the design of digital monitoring platforms, and creating user-friendly interfaces for data visualization.
• Supporting the development of spatial analytics and risk assessment models, conducting crop cutting exercises, and utilizing GPS-enabled tools for data collection.
• Developing statistical models to predict agricultural trends and outcomes, and ensuring the quality of data through cleaning and feature engineering.
• Facilitating capacity development by organizing training sessions on GIS tools and statistical software, and creating training resources.
• Ensuring smooth execution of project activities and coordinating logistics.
• Drafting technical notes, contributing to reporting templates, and translating documents between English and Khmer.
• Developing outreach materials to communicate findings effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Data Science, Statistics, Geography, Geographical Information Systems, Remote Sensing, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience working with data science tools is required. Candidates should have a working knowledge of English at level C and must be either nationals of Cambodia or residents with a regular work permit. Proficiency in data science tools such as Python and R, experience managing large datasets, and familiarity with national surveys or censuses are also essential qualifications.

Educational Background:
A university degree in a relevant field such as Data Science, Statistics, Geography, Geographical Information Systems, or Remote Sensing is required for this position. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for the technical and analytical tasks involved in the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant experience working with data science tools and methodologies. This experience should include managing and analyzing large datasets, leading statistical projects, and applying geospatial analysis techniques. Familiarity with the agriculture sector in Cambodia, including agricultural policy and statistics, is highly desirable.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at level C is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in Khmer is also essential, as the role involves translating technical documents and training materials between English and Khmer. Additional language skills may be considered an advantage but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and is based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The FAO is committed to building a diverse workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those from underrepresented groups. The organization offers competitive compensation and benefits, including opportunities for professional development and training.