Data Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and communities to address development challenges. The organization focuses on various areas, including democratic governance, sustainable development, and resilience to crises. In Malaysia, UNDP collaborates with the government to implement the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan (2026-2030), which aims to transform Malaysia into a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable country.

Job Overview:
The Data Analyst position within the Strategy & Analytics Unit of UNDP Malaysia is designed to support the government's demand for policy consultancy and strategic insights. The role involves establishing and strengthening data systems, curating knowledge products, and conducting policy-relevant research. The Analyst will work closely with government agencies, UN entities, and civil society to mobilize data and evidence for decision-making and public engagement. This position is crucial for enhancing internal capabilities on research and knowledge management, ensuring that the unit effectively contributes to national development strategies, particularly in areas such as SDG integration and climate resilience.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will report to the Development Economist and collaborate with the Strategy & Analytics team, management team, and external partners. Key responsibilities include:

• Data Management and Analysis: Design and maintain structured databases for project and policy data; support data cleaning, validation, and integration; conduct quantitative and qualitative analysis; develop visualizations and dashboards.
• Research and Policy Support: Conduct desk research and literature reviews; draft policy notes and briefs; synthesize lessons learned from UNDP projects; contribute to strategic insights for government partners.
• Capacity Building and Engagement: Organize workshops on data literacy; support stakeholder engagement processes; promote data use in public discourse.
• Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting: Track progress of knowledge activities; prepare reports and presentations.
• Knowledge Management: Curate knowledge products; maintain a digital repository; facilitate knowledge sharing across teams and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Data Science, Statistics, Public Policy, Development Studies, Economics, Mathematics, or related fields. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in these areas combined with two years of qualifying experience will be considered. Applicants with a Master’s degree are not required to have professional work experience, while those with a Bachelor’s degree must have at least two years of relevant experience in data analysis, research, or knowledge management.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields is required. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) may be accepted with additional qualifying experience. The educational background should ideally include studies in Data Science, Statistics, Public Policy, Development Studies, Economics, Mathematics, or other Social Sciences.

Experience:
The level of experience required varies based on educational qualifications. Applicants with a Master’s degree are not required to have prior professional experience, while those with a Bachelor’s degree must have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in data analysis, research, or knowledge management. Desired skills include demonstrated experience in data analysis, familiarity with SDG frameworks, and proficiency in data visualization tools and statistical software.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Bahasa Melayu is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but the primary requirement is strong communication skills in both English and Bahasa Melayu.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of the UNDP's commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. The right to select multiple candidates is reserved, and UNDP may retain applications for similar positions. Importantly, UNDP does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.