Junior Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The Junior Consultant position is part of a project implemented by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Subregional Office for Southern Africa. UNECA was established to promote the economic and social development of its member states, and it operates in various countries across the African continent. The organization focuses on providing research, policy analysis, and capacity-building support to its member states, with a mission to foster inclusive and sustainable development in Africa. UNECA collaborates with other UN agencies, regional organizations, and stakeholders to address pressing issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and sustainable industrialization.

Job Overview:
The Junior Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting the Senior Consultant by providing research and data analysis for a regional study aimed at promoting green and inclusive industrialization in Southern Africa. This position is hybrid, allowing for both remote and in-person work, and is expected to last for a duration of three months. The consultant will be involved in a project that supports six countries in the region—Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe—by designing and implementing innovative green economy policies. The focus will be on renewable energy, circular economy practices, and the role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in driving sustainable development. The consultant will assist in conducting desk research, drafting analytical summaries, and contributing to the preparation of national workshops that will discuss policy frameworks and strategies for green industrialization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Junior Consultant will have a variety of responsibilities, including: conducting desk research and compiling relevant literature and datasets; drafting analytical summaries of country experiences and policy frameworks; supporting the dissemination of surveys related to the circular economy and MSMEs; preparing notes on financing mechanisms and innovation systems; contributing written inputs to the draft regional study; and developing supporting materials for workshops and briefings. The consultant will work under the guidance of UNECA and the Senior Consultant, ensuring that the research is evidence-based and relevant for policymakers and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University Degree in Economics, Development Studies, Environmental Policy, or a related field. Alternatively, a first degree with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. The position requires at least three years of experience in economic policy analysis, value chain analysis, or development economics. Strong analytical skills and the ability to synthesize complex information into clear and concise summaries are essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an Advanced University Degree in a relevant field such as Economics, Development Studies, or Environmental Policy. A first degree in these areas, combined with additional professional experience, may also be considered acceptable. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of economic policies and their implications for sustainable development.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of professional experience in economic policy analysis, value chain analysis, or development economics. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to conduct research, analyze data, and contribute to policy discussions effectively. Familiarity with the challenges and opportunities related to green industrialization and the role of MSMEs in the economy will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations. Proficiency in French is also beneficial, as it is another working language of the UN. Candidates who can communicate effectively in both languages will have an advantage in this role, given the diverse stakeholders involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
The total remuneration for this position is USD 500

• It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization also emphasizes that it does not require information regarding applicants' bank accounts, ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process.