Associate Economic Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Trade Facilitation Section (TFS) of the Division on Technology and Logistics (DTL) of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and is dedicated to promoting the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization focuses on trade, investment, and sustainable development, and operates in over 190 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work collaboratively to achieve its mission of fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

Job Overview:
The Associate Economic Affairs Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation and monitoring of projects within the Trade Facilitation Section. This position involves conducting economic and sector analysis, which includes collecting, evaluating, and interpreting various statistics and qualitative socio-economic information related to trade facilitation. The officer will maintain databases, assist in designing econometric models, and prepare analytical studies on development issues. Additionally, the role requires organizing expert group meetings and providing intergovernmental support by preparing reports and summaries for intergovernmental bodies. The officer will also be involved in technical cooperation by compiling data for project proposals and monitoring the implementation of technical cooperation programs. Overall, the position demands a strong understanding of economic theories and their application in international trade, particularly in the context of trade facilitation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Economic Affairs Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Conducting economic and sector analysis by collecting and interpreting data from various sources related to trade facilitation.
• Maintaining databases and managing non-quantitative information.
• Assisting in the design and operation of econometric models.
• Preparing briefing notes and drafts for analytical studies on development issues.
• Organizing and servicing expert group meetings and seminars on development issues.
• Preparing inputs for reports to intergovernmental bodies and summarizing meetings.
• Compiling and analyzing data for technical cooperation project proposals.
• Monitoring and assessing the implementation of technical cooperation programs.
• Performing administrative tasks necessary for the delivery of the work unit's services. 1
• Engaging in training activities to enhance skills and knowledge.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of economic theories and their application in international trade, particularly in trade facilitation. They should demonstrate the ability to conduct research, analyze data, and write comprehensive reports. The ideal candidate will show professionalism, teamwork, and effective planning and organizing skills. They should be motivated by professional concerns and demonstrate persistence in overcoming challenges. Additionally, candidates must be able to incorporate gender perspectives into their work and ensure equal participation of women and men in all areas.

Educational Background:
A first-level university degree in economics or a related field is required for this position. In cases where candidates possess a first-level university degree, two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of economic analysis and trade facilitation.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, policy formulation, or the application of economic principles in development programs is required. Experience specifically in the field of trade facilitation and technical assistance projects is desirable, as it will enhance the candidate's ability to contribute effectively to the role.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Additionally, proficiency in either French, Chinese (Mandarin), Arabic, Russian, or Spanish is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I in these languages. This multilingual capability is important for effective communication within the diverse environment of the United Nations.

Additional Notes:
This position is funded through a project, and its duration is contingent upon the availability of funds and the continuation of the project. The initial duration is until December 31, with a possibility of extension starting in November 202

• The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance in its workforce and strongly encourages female candidates to apply. Candidates should be aware that there is no expectation of a fixed-term appointment following the temporary assignment. The position is classified as a temporary appointment, and candidates should be prepared for the possibility of multiple temporary appointments in the same or different offices.