Data Scientist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and is committed to addressing the triple planetary crises of climate change, nature loss, and pollution. The organization is focused on digital transformation to enhance its operations and better serve its partners, which include governments, businesses, finance, and civil society. UNEP aims to become increasingly data-driven and effective in its mission through the adoption of existing and emerging digital technologies.

Job Overview:
The scientist" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Data Scientist position is integral to UNEP's Chief Digital Office, focusing on leveraging internal and external data to support evidence-based decision-making. The role involves analyzing trends, current data, and predictions to accelerate and scale environmental sustainability through digital transformation. The Data Scientist will lead the Applications, AI, and Data Science function, overseeing UNEP's data platforms and applications. This position requires a strategic approach to data science, ensuring that data sources are effectively utilized to support programmatic areas and advance the organization's goals. The incumbent will also coordinate the design and development of data science products, ensuring that insights are effectively communicated to stakeholders and clients.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Data Scientist will be responsible for leading the Applications, AI, and Data Science function, managing the work program on data science, and providing supervision to staff. Key responsibilities include exploring and acquiring data sources, ensuring data quality for analytical use, and collaborating with stakeholders to leverage data science methods. The incumbent will coordinate the development of data science products, design customized visualization tools, and represent UNEP at international meetings. Additionally, the Data Scientist will advise senior management on trends in data science and recommend actions based on data-driven insights.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of software and data analysis life cycles, excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to convey complex data science topics in a relatable manner. The role requires a commitment to gender perspectives and the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. The Data Scientist should demonstrate professionalism, planning and organizing skills, performance management capabilities, client orientation, and sound judgment in decision-making.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in data science, mathematics, statistics, engineering, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A degree focusing on environmental applications of data science is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in data science, data analytics, applied mathematics, or software engineering is required. Candidates should have experience with statistical and computational methods, data science tools, and managing software development and data science teams. Experience in delivering environmental applications in an international or multinational context is desirable.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in either English or French is required, with a minimum level of proficiency specified according to the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is for an initial period of one year, subject to extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is open to both internal and external candidates, with a strong encouragement for female candidates to apply. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.