Analytical and Research Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), which was established in 197

• ESCWA's mission is to promote economic and social development in the Arab region through regional cooperation and integration. The organization focuses on various issues, including gender equality, sustainable development, and economic growth. ESCWA operates in multiple countries across the Arab region, working with governments and stakeholders to address regional challenges and promote sustainable development goals. The organization employs a diverse workforce dedicated to improving the lives of people in the region.

Job Overview:
The Analytical and Research Assistant will work under the direct supervision of the Economic Affairs Officer (Gender Economist) at ESCWA. The primary function of this position is to provide analytical and research support for a study focused on how digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping employment in the Arab region, particularly concerning young women's access to future-ready skills and digital jobs. The role involves compiling, processing, and analyzing data sets from various sources, conducting statistical analyses, and exploring skills profiling to identify trends and gaps. The assistant will also conduct background research, review relevant materials, and contribute to stakeholder engagements and expert interviews as needed. The position requires drafting analytical sections for the study and assisting with other related tasks as requested by the supervisor. All deliverables produced will remain the property of ESCWA, and submissions must be in English. The expected duration of this assignment is six months, and the work location is at UN-House ESCWA in Beirut, Lebanon.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Analytical and Research Assistant include:

• Assisting in the compilation, processing, and wrangling of data sets derived from various sources, including Labour Force Surveys and Labour Market Panel Surveys microdata.
• Conducting statistical and data analysis to explore skills profiling and highlight overall trends and skills gaps in the labor market.
• Conducting background research and reviewing relevant materials to support the study.
• Contributing to stakeholder engagements and expert interviews as requested by the supervisor.
• Supporting the drafting of analytical sections for the study, ensuring that all deliverables are submitted in English.
• Assisting in other related tasks as assigned by the supervisor, ensuring that all work aligns with the objectives of the study and the mission of ESCWA.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the position include:

• An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in economics, labor economics, development studies, data science, or related fields.
• A minimum of 2 years of professional work experience in applied quantitative research.
• Proficiency in STATA is required, along with strong skills in microdata management and statistical/econometric analysis.
• Knowledge of R or Python is desirable, as is experience in labor market and gender issues.
• Familiarity with combining qualitative insights with data-driven evidence is also desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in relevant fields such as economics, labor economics, development studies, data science, or related disciplines. All candidates are required to submit a copy of their educational degree, and incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of professional work experience in applied quantitative research. Candidates should have a strong background in statistical analysis and data management, particularly in the context of labor markets and gender issues. Experience in working with microdata and conducting econometric analysis is essential for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of Arabic is desirable, as it is a working language of ESCWA. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding. Knowledge of Arabic is considered a rating of 'confident' in two of the four areas.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for six months, and 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 does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts. This position is likely to be full-time, and the recruitment process is open to both national and international candidates.