Associate Economic Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Housing and Land Management Unit of the Forests, Land and Housing Division at the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). The UNECE was established in 1947 and is one of the regional commissions of the United Nations. Its mission is to promote pan-European economic integration and sustainable development. The organization operates in 56 member states across Europe, North America, and Central Asia, focusing on various sectors including trade, transport, environment, and economic cooperation. The UNECE employs a diverse workforce of over 300 professionals who work collaboratively to address economic and environmental challenges in the region.

Job Overview:
The Associate Economic Affairs Officer position is a critical role within the UNECE, focusing on economic analysis and policy formulation in various sectors. The officer will engage in development economics, international economics, public economics, and environmental economics, among others. The role requires the collection and analysis of socio-economic data, assisting in the design and modification of econometric models, and preparing analytical studies on development issues. The officer will also support intergovernmental processes by preparing project reports and organizing capacity-building workshops. This position demands a strong understanding of economic theories and their practical applications, as well as the ability to communicate complex economic concepts to non-specialists effectively. The officer will work closely with the UN4UkrainianCities Programme Management Officer and contribute to the overall mission of the UNECE by providing data-driven insights and recommendations.

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

• Conducting economic and sector analysis by collecting, evaluating, interpreting, and analyzing statistics and qualitative socio-economic information from various sources.
• Assisting in the design, testing, operation, and modification of econometric models to support economic analysis.
• Preparing briefing notes, speeches, and other materials on economic issues that are accessible to non-specialists.
• Drafting sector, country, or regional components of analytical studies on development issues and policies.
• Organizing and servicing expert group meetings, seminars, and workshops on development issues.
• Preparing inputs for project reports and summarizing project-related meetings.
• Compiling and analyzing data for technical cooperation project proposals and preparing documentation for these projects.
• Monitoring and assessing the implementation of technical cooperation programs and projects.
• Performing various administrative tasks necessary for the delivery of the work unit’s services and contributing to data collection and analysis for decision-making and reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong foundation in economic research and analysis, with a minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in this field. Experience in policy formulation and the application of economic principles in development programs is essential. Additionally, candidates should have experience in preparing and delivering workshops and capacity-building initiatives, with a preference for those who have worked in conflict areas. Familiarity with the UN Common System or similar organizations is desirable. The role requires a high level of professionalism, analytical skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or Doctorate degree, or equivalent) in economics or a related field is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in the specified fields, combined with two additional years of relevant work experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background ensures that candidates have the necessary theoretical knowledge and analytical skills to perform effectively in this role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, as well as policy formulation. Candidates should have experience in applying economic principles in development programs or related areas. Desirable experience includes two years in preparing and delivering workshops and capacity-building initiatives, as well as at least one year of experience in applying development economics in conflict areas. Experience with the UN Common System or similar organizations is also preferred, as it provides valuable insights into the workings of international organizations.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, proficiency in English is required, while knowledge of French is considered desirable. Candidates should be able to demonstrate their language skills according to the UN Language Framework, which outlines the minimum required level for each skill in these languages. This requirement ensures effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Geneva, Switzerland. The contract duration and seniority level are not specified in the job posting. The UNECE is committed to recruiting internationally, and candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Compensation and benefits details are typically aligned with UN standards, which include competitive salaries, health insurance, and retirement plans.