Data Specialist, Economic Empowerment

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC operates in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, focusing on responding to the world's most severe humanitarian crises. The organization aims to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With a mission to deliver lasting impact, the IRC employs a diverse workforce dedicated to helping millions regain control of their lives and strengthen their communities. The IRC is recognized for its commitment to humanitarian principles and its effectiveness in delivering aid and support to those in need.

Job Overview:
The Data Specialist, Economic Empowerment plays a crucial role in supporting the IRC’s Economic Empowerment programs, which are active in nearly 30 U.S. cities and various international projects. The position focuses on program areas such as workforce development, financial capabilities, small business development, and food and agriculture-programming" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">agriculture programming. A key expectation for this role is to ensure that data is accurately captured and utilized to assess impact and enhance service delivery. The Data Specialist will work closely with both field and headquarters staff to facilitate data collection, maintain data quality, and support the overall goals of the Economic Empowerment programs. This position is integral to the IRC's mission of providing effective and impactful humanitarian assistance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Data Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting field and HQ staff in the recording and gathering of data, ensuring compliance with project and donor requirements.
• Participating in and delivering training activities focused on economic empowerment data for program staff, both in group settings and one-on-one.
• Assisting in the updating and maintenance of data collection resources, including manuals, guides, templates, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Compiling reports from various data systems to support program objectives and reporting needs.
• Preparing data sets for import/export, uploads, and other data transfer processes.
• Conducting regular data quality assurance checks on program and project data to ensure accuracy, consistency, and completeness.
• Collaborating with field teams to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of data entry and assisting in resolving data-related issues.
• Performing other duties as assigned by the Technical Advisor – Data & Knowledge, Economic Empowerment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Data Specialist position should possess the following qualifications:

• An undergraduate degree or relevant work experience in social sciences or a related field, with substantial coursework in data or quantitative methods.
• A minimum of 2 years of experience working with large, complex data sets, particularly in social services or economic development contexts, is strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with data collection methods, tools, and best practices is essential.
• Experience using proprietary data systems, CRMs, and similar platforms is required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel is necessary, with familiarity in CSV and other data formats being preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to perform data quality assurance in dynamic, fast-paced environments.
• Excellent organizational skills and the capability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to adapt communication for various audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in multicultural and multidisciplinary teams.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Data Specialist position includes an undergraduate degree in social sciences or a related field. Candidates should have substantial coursework in data or quantitative methods, which is critical for understanding and managing the data-related aspects of the role. Relevant work experience may also be considered in lieu of formal education, particularly if it involves significant exposure to data management and analysis.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of experience working with large and complex data sets, especially within the context of social services or economic development. This experience is crucial for ensuring that the Data Specialist can effectively support the IRC’s Economic Empowerment programs and contribute to the organization's mission of delivering impactful humanitarian assistance.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is implied as a requirement given the nature of the position and the working environment. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they align with the communities served by the IRC’s programs.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote within the United States, with occasional travel or field coordination required to support data initiatives. The compensation for this role ranges from $20.00 to $27.00 per hour, depending on various factors such as labor market conditions, job type, internal equity, and budget considerations. The IRC offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, sick days, and a retirement savings plan with matching contributions. The organization is committed to equal opportunity employment and considers all applicants based on merit without discrimination.