Consultant for Labour Market Assessment

Job Posting Organization:
The job is commissioned by DRC (Danish Refugee Council) and Mercy Corps, two prominent organizations focused on humanitarian aid and development. DRC was established in 1956 and has since grown to operate in over 40 countries, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to supporting displaced populations and promoting durable solutions to displacement. Mercy Corps, founded in 1979, operates in over 40 countries as well, with a mission to alleviate suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities. Both organizations are committed to integrating gender-sensitive approaches and ensuring the inclusion of marginalized groups in their programs.

Job Overview:
The position involves conducting a comprehensive Labour Market Assessment (LMA) as part of an EU-funded program aimed at empowering youth employment in Sudan. The assessment will focus on understanding the dynamics of the labor market in nine states affected by conflict and displacement, specifically targeting youth aged 15-35, with an emphasis on including at least 51% women and 5% youth with disabilities. The consultant will be responsible for producing an evidence-based analysis that identifies viable employment pathways and actionable recommendations tailored to the specific contexts of each state. The assessment will utilize a market systems development lens to explore not only labor gaps but also the underlying constraints that hinder youth employment opportunities. The consultant will work closely with DRC and Mercy Corps teams to ensure that the findings inform design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and implementation effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with mapping labor demand and growth prospects in priority sectors relevant to youth, profiling labor supply disaggregated by sex and disability, assessing system functions and rules affecting labor outcomes, and prioritizing feasible employment pathways. Specific duties include conducting surveys and interviews with employers and youth, analyzing data to identify trends and constraints, and producing detailed reports that outline findings and recommendations. The consultant will also need to ensure that gender and protection considerations are integrated throughout the assessment process, including the application of GBV risk analysis and child labor standards. Additionally, the consultant will be responsible for coordinating with local stakeholders, managing data collection logistics, and ensuring the quality and ethical standards of the research.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate proven experience in leading labor market assessments in fragile or conflict-affected settings, with a strong understanding of gender and inclusion issues. They should possess strong quantitative and qualitative research skills, including experience in designing and implementing surveys and conducting interviews. Familiarity with market systems development approaches and the ability to integrate these into labor market assessments is essential. The consultant must also have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and be able to produce high-quality reports that convey complex findings clearly and effectively.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in social sciences, economics, international development, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in labor market analysis, gender studies, or humanitarian response will be considered an asset.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in conducting labor market assessments, particularly in contexts affected by conflict or humanitarian crises. Candidates should have a track record of managing similar projects from inception to completion, including data collection, analysis, and reporting. Experience working with youth employment programs and understanding the challenges faced by marginalized groups in labor markets is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with strong report-writing skills. Proficiency in Arabic is preferred and will be considered an asset, especially for field coordination and data collection. If the consultant does not speak Arabic, a clear plan for translation and interpretation must be included in the proposal.

Additional Notes:
The assignment is expected to require 40-60 working days from March to May 202

• The consultant will work remotely, coordinating with DRC and Mercy Corps teams throughout the assessment cycle. The role may involve managing a team of enumerators and ensuring adherence to ethical standards in data collection. The consultant will also need to provide a detailed work plan, including timelines and milestones, and demonstrate a commitment to quality assurance and data protection throughout the project.