Senior Research Assistant - Social Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the CELADE-Population Division of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), which is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations. ECLAC was established in 1948 with the mission to contribute to the economic and social development of the region. The organization focuses on designing, monitoring, and evaluating public policies, providing advisory services, expertise, and training to governments, and supporting regional and international cooperation and coordination activities. ECLAC operates in various countries across Latin America and the Caribbean, working to enhance the capacities of public and private sectors, particularly in relation to international migrant workers in Chile and Uruguay. For more information, visit www.eclac.org.

Job Overview:
The Senior Research Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the Population and Development Area of CELADE. The position involves independently identifying and monitoring substantive aspects of the work across various countries, evaluating documents, summarizing materials, collecting and analyzing data, and preparing background materials for assessment papers, studies, briefs, and reports. The Research Assistant will also be responsible for preparing charts, graphs, and other outputs for reporting and presentation of data, assisting in formulating project proposals, and coordinating the day-to-day monitoring and implementation of these projects. The role requires building special data sets for specific research needs, designing and updating databases, and managing data relevant to program/project activities. The Research Assistant will also participate in technical meetings, serve as Secretary to committees, and draft various documents and reports. This position demands a high level of professionalism, teamwork, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and external parties to achieve organizational goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Research Assistant include:

• Independently identifying and monitoring substantive aspects of the work of the Area in various countries.
• Selecting and evaluating a variety of documents, summarizing pertinent material, collecting and analyzing data, and preparing background materials for assessment papers, studies, briefs, and reports.
• Systematically retrieving, highlighting, and compiling information from various sources; preparing input for electronic databases and the internet; and cooperating with research institutes and organizations in data collection.
• Preparing charts, graphs, and other outputs for reporting and presentation of data.
• Assisting in formulating project proposals and coordinating the day-to-day monitoring and implementation of projects.
• Producing analytical, quantitative, and qualitative elements required for the elaboration of documents and reports.
• Building special data sets for specific research needs or reports.
• Designing and updating databases and managing data relevant to program/project activities.
• Carrying out preparatory work for and assisting in organizing Committee/Task Force meetings and workshops. 1
• Drafting agenda and procedural notes for meetings. 1
• Establishing internal databases and managing data and information relevant to program/project activities. 1
• Participating in technical meetings, conferences, and seminars. 1
• Serving as Secretary to committees and drafting summary reports, minutes, and notes for the files. 1
• Liaising with relevant parties both outside and inside the organization. 1
• Drafting and editing complex technical texts. 1
• Preparing newsletters and drafting inputs for a wide range of documents. 1
• Processing information gathered using various computer programs and updating information for distribution. 1
• Tracking resolutions and legislative decisions affecting program/project content. 1
• Undertaking mission/field work as needed. 2
• Providing guidance and support to junior staff and reviewing work assignments. 2
• Assisting with data presentations and reports for information sharing and decision-making. 2
• Updating information material such as web pages or brochures. 2
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Supplementary technical studies or university courses in social sciences, economics, demography, or a related field are desirable. Candidates should possess strong analytical skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and a thorough understanding of the functions and organization of the United Nations system. Knowledge of internal policies and procedures is essential, as well as the ability to research and gather information from various sources. Candidates should demonstrate good judgment, professionalism, and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent. It is desirable to have supplementary technical studies or university courses in social sciences, economics, demography, or a related field. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of social and economic development, particularly in relation to population and migration issues.

Experience:
At least ten years of experience in collecting and researching data across various areas of social and economic development or related fields is required. Candidates should have experience in analysis and research in the field of population and development, as well as work experience in research and analysis of public policies related to migrant persons. Experience in program and project support and the provision of technical assistance is also desirable. Additionally, one year or more of experience in data analytics or a related area is preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Spanish is required for this position, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, while Spanish is a working language of ECLAC. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until December 202

• If the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The appointment for positions in the General Service category is done on a local basis, meaning applicants must be recruited in the country or within commuting distance of the office, regardless of nationality. Applicants are responsible for any expenses incurred during the recruitment process, including examinations and travel costs. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging female candidates to apply, and ensuring equal opportunities regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or disabilities. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request. The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment, and staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various functions in accordance with established rules.