Sampling Expert

Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA Somalia is part of the United Nations Population Fund, which focuses on improving demographic data availability for policy and planning. The organization aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals by ensuring access to reproductive health services, promoting gender equality, and supporting population data collection and analysis. UNFPA Somalia has been operational for several years and employs a diverse team dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced in the region. The organization works in various sectors, including health, education, and community development, and collaborates with local and international partners to achieve its mission.

Job Overview:
The Sampling Expert position at UNFPA Somalia involves providing technical expertise in the construction of sampling weights for a pre-Socio-demographic survey. This role is crucial for improving the availability of demographic data, which is essential for effective policy-making and planning. The expert will be responsible for calculating base weights, making nonresponse adjustments, and performing calibration/poststratification. Additionally, the expert will document the methodology used in a comprehensive Weighting Technical Note, ensuring transparency and reproducibility of the sampling process. The role requires a strong understanding of statistical methods and the ability to communicate complex data insights effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Construct sampling weights for the pre-Socio-demographic survey, ensuring accuracy and reliability in the data collection process.
• Calculate base weights for each responding unit, taking into account the sampling design and population characteristics.
• Perform nonresponse adjustments to account for any biases introduced by non-participation in the survey.
• Conduct calibration and poststratification to align the sample with known population parameters.
• Implement weight trimming techniques to reduce the impact of extreme weights on the analysis.
• Prepare a detailed Weighting Technical Note that documents the methodology, including all calculations and adjustments made during the weighting process.
• Deliver a final dataset that includes the unique weight variable assigned to each responding unit, ensuring it is ready for analysis and reporting.
• Collaborate with other team members to ensure the integration of sampling weights into the overall data analysis framework.
• Provide guidance and support to other volunteers and team members involved in the survey process.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced knowledge of statistical methods and sampling techniques.
• Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., R, SAS, SPSS) for data analysis and weight calculation.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data sets.
• Excellent documentation skills to create clear and comprehensive technical notes.
• Experience in demographic research or survey methodology is highly desirable.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote environment.
• Strong communication skills to convey technical information to non-technical stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or higher in Statistics, Demography, Social Sciences, or a related field is required. Candidates with a strong background in quantitative research methods and experience in survey design will be preferred.

Experience:
A minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in statistical analysis, survey methodology, or demographic research is required. Experience working with international organizations or in a development context is an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of Somali or other local languages is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the understanding of the demographic context.

Additional Notes:
This position is a remote opportunity, allowing for flexibility in work hours. The contract duration is project-based, with the possibility of extension depending on the needs of the organization and the successful completion of the project objectives. The role is open to international applicants, and compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.