UN Youth Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of children worldwide. With a mission to ensure that every child has the opportunity to survive, develop, and thrive, UNICEF operates in over 150 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to advocate for children's rights and provide essential services. The organization focuses on equity, aiming to reach the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families, ensuring that no child is left behind. UNICEF's work is guided by the principles outlined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child, emphasizing the importance of addressing inequity to foster sustainable growth and stability in nations.

Job Overview:
The UN Youth Volunteer position within UNICEF Sierra Leone is designed to support the Evaluation and Research function of the organization. This role is crucial for ensuring accountability, learning, and evidence-based decision-making across various program areas. The volunteer will work under the guidance of the Multi-Country Evaluation Specialist, contributing to the implementation of the evaluation and evidence agenda of the UNICEF Sierra Leone Country Office. The primary focus will be on strengthening the generation, use, and communication of evaluative evidence across programs, thereby enhancing learning and accountability. The volunteer will engage in research and evaluation activities, data analysis, and the dissemination of findings, providing an excellent opportunity for professional development in the field of evidence generation and evaluation within the UN system. The role also includes supporting knowledge management and maintaining the Evidence Information System (EISI) database, which is essential for tracking management responses to evaluations and ensuring that evidence informs policies and programs for children in Sierra Leone.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Evaluation and Research Support: Assist in planning, coordinating, and implementing research and evaluation activities; support data collection, analysis, and synthesis of findings; contribute to the preparation and review of evaluation terms of reference, inception reports, and draft deliverables; ensure evaluation quality through adherence to UNICEF’s Global Evaluation Reports Standards (GEROS) and ethical guidelines.
• Evidence Use and Knowledge Management: Support the dissemination and use of evaluation and research findings; prepare briefs, presentations, and communication products; maintain and update the Evidence Information System (EISI) database; document lessons learned and good practices.
• Monitoring of Evaluation Follow-up: Track management responses and actions from completed evaluations; prepare summary reports and dashboards on evaluation recommendations; liaise with program sections to monitor progress in implementation.
• Capacity Development and Learning: Participate in internal learning sessions and workshops; contribute to initiatives promoting youth engagement and capacity strengthening in evidence generation and use.
• Coordination and Administrative Support: Provide logistical support for evaluation-related meetings; assist with communication among partners and stakeholders; support record-keeping and documentation of evaluation materials.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills. They must demonstrate the ability to synthesize information and prepare concise reports or briefs. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is essential, along with familiarity with data visualization tools. The ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment and adapt to dynamic team settings is crucial. A high sense of responsibility, initiative, and commitment to UNICEF’s values of integrity, care, respect, trust, and accountability is expected.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically a degree in social sciences, public health, international development, or a related field. Candidates should have a strong foundation in research methodologies and evaluation principles, which will be beneficial in carrying out the responsibilities of the role effectively.

Experience:
The position is aimed at young professionals, ideally those who have some experience in research, evaluation, or data analysis, although specific years of experience may not be strictly required. The focus is on providing an opportunity for professional development and gaining practical experience within the UN system.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of UNICEF. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Sierra Leone would be an asset, enhancing communication and engagement with local communities.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position based at UNICEF’s Sierra Leone Country Office in Freetown, with periodic travel to districts. The UN Volunteer will be responsible for their own accommodation and related expenses. The position is classified as a family duty station, and living conditions are generally good. The UN Volunteer will need to obtain UNDSS clearance to ensure adherence to safety standards. The role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to UNICEF's mission while gaining valuable experience in evaluation and research within a supportive environment.