Disaster Data Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) was established in December 1999 and serves as the focal point within the United Nations system for coordinating efforts to reduce disasters. The organization aims to ensure synergies among disaster reduction activities across the United Nations and regional organizations, operating in both developed and developing countries. UNDRR is led by the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction (SRSG) and has a workforce of over 120 staff members based in its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, as well as in various regional offices. The organization is committed to guiding, monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, while also supporting regional and national efforts to enhance disaster risk reduction. UNDRR collaborates with UN Member States and a diverse range of partners, including civil society, the private sector, parliamentarians, and the science and technology community, to increase global awareness and action towards reducing disaster risk.

Job Overview:
The Disaster Data Expert position is designed to support government counterparts from various entities in enhancing their national data capabilities for improved disaster-related data collection, analysis, reporting, and application. The expert will play a crucial role in the rollout of DELTA Resilience, a UNDRR-supported system for tracking and analyzing disaster and hazardous events, as well as facilitating accelerated reporting through the Sendai Framework Monitor (SFM). The role involves coordinating support for country-level data ecosystem analysis, assessing data readiness and quality, and identifying context-specific needs to strengthen data governance and applications. The expert will also provide tools, methodologies, and training to enhance national capacities in utilizing disaster-related data standards and technologies. Additionally, the position entails engaging with national disaster risk reduction focal points and statistics offices to ensure effective data collection for reporting against the Sendai Framework and related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The expert will contribute to the continuous development of training materials and assist in documenting best practices in disaster-related data application, ultimately supporting governments in strengthening national data collaboration and coordination.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UNV Disaster Data Expert will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including supporting countries in assessing their data ecosystem maturity and readiness, identifying technical assistance needs for establishing or enhancing national disaster tracking systems, and providing capacity development efforts for data collection and analysis. The expert will assist in strengthening existing data systems, facilitate the integration of disaster-related statistics with national statistics ecosystems, and support Sendai Framework monitoring focal points in maintaining appropriate data sources. The role also involves helping data users understand the applications of data, supporting data producers in analyzing trends, and collaborating with government counterparts and UN country teams to produce analytical reports and visualizations. The expert will engage in enhancing dashboards and translating data into meaningful insights for decision-making and action.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Disaster Data Expert position should possess a strong understanding of disaster risk reduction and data management principles. They should have experience in data analysis, statistical methods, and the use of data visualization tools. Familiarity with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and related SDGs is essential. The ideal candidate should demonstrate excellent communication skills, the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, and a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. A proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances are also important qualifications for this role.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for the Disaster Data Expert position, typically including a degree in fields such as data science, statistics, disaster management, environmental science, or a related discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in data analysis or disaster risk reduction may be advantageous. Candidates should also have a strong foundation in research methodologies and data governance principles.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a significant level of experience in data management, analysis, and disaster risk reduction. Previous work experience in international organizations, governmental agencies, or non-governmental organizations focused on disaster risk reduction or data management is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of successfully implementing data-related projects and initiatives, as well as experience in capacity building and training delivery.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for the Disaster Data Expert position. Proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable, given the regional context of the role. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the countries in which the expert will be working.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Cairo, Egypt, which is classified as a family duty station with a range of services and good living conditions. The UN International Expert Volunteer will receive a monthly living allowance of USD 3522.23, along with a one-time entry lump-sum payment of USD 400

• An exit allowance will be provided upon successful completion of the assignment, and the volunteer will be covered by medical and life insurance. Access to training and learning resources, including the UNV E-Campus and LinkedIn Learning, will also be available. Further details regarding entitlements and conditions of service can be found on the UNV website.