Technical Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Labour Organization (ILO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that aims to promote social justice and fair labor standards globally. Established in 1919, the ILO has a mission to ensure that labor rights are upheld and that all workers have access to decent working conditions. The organization operates in over 180 countries and employs approximately 3,500 staff members. The ILO is committed to promoting rights at work, encouraging decent employment opportunities, enhancing social protection, and strengthening dialogue on work-related issues. It plays a crucial role in setting international labor standards and provides technical assistance to its member states.

Job Overview:
The Technical Specialist position is situated within the Inclusive Labour Markets, Wages and Working Conditions Branch (INWORK) of the Conditions of Work and Equality Department (WORKQUALITY) at the ILO. This role is pivotal in leading the implementation of the Living Wage Programme, which aims to establish fair wage standards globally. The Technical Specialist will be responsible for conducting estimations of living wages using ILO methodologies, improving these methodologies, and integrating wage-related data into a global wage data hub. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government institutions and social partners, to strengthen the evidence base for wage-setting institutions. The Technical Specialist will also oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of technical activities related to the project, ensuring alignment with ILO principles and objectives. This role is essential for promoting decent work and inclusive labor protection, contributing to the ILO's mission of ensuring that all workers benefit from fair treatment and decent working conditions.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the implementation of knowledge activities for the Living Wage Programme, including estimations of living wages and the development of methodologies.
• Provide technical advice to government institutions and social partners to strengthen the evidence base for wage-setting.
• Support consultations with employers' and workers' organizations on living wage estimates.
• Develop and maintain the ILO global wage data hub, including organizing workshops and IT service contracts.
• Plan, implement, monitor, and evaluate technical activities, contributing to operational planning and donor reports.
• Provide guidance to junior project officers and oversee external collaborators' work.
• Participate in exchanges of experiences and information at various levels, including conferences and workshops.
• Create and disseminate technical guidance materials to raise awareness of living wage concepts.
• Liaise with UN counterparts to promote ILO values and increase project visibility. 1
• Promote ILO policies related to the Programme and ensure gender equality and non-discrimination. 1
• Contribute to project information materials and participate in dissemination activities. 1
• Conduct research on living wage trends and identify training needs for constituents. 1
• Engage in resource mobilization activities to expand the donor base for the Programme. 1
• Undertake other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in economics or a relevant field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's or equivalent) with an additional two years of relevant experience will be accepted. The role requires at least seven years of professional experience in quantitative analysis of wage data, preferably at the international level. Familiarity with ILO policies and procedures, as well as experience working with government institutions and social partners, is advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to provide effective technical advice, conceptualize and implement research work, and guide external collaborators.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in economics or a related field is required. A first-level university degree (Bachelor's or equivalent) may be accepted if accompanied by two additional years of relevant experience. This educational background is essential for understanding complex economic factors and methodologies related to wage-setting and labor market analysis.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience, particularly in the quantitative analysis of wage data, including living wages. Experience at the international level is preferred, and familiarity with ILO policies and procedures, as well as working with government institutions and social partners, would be beneficial. Candidates should have a proven track record of providing technical advice and conducting research in the field of labor economics.

Languages:
Candidates must have excellent knowledge of one working language of the Office (English, French, or Spanish) and a good working knowledge of another language. Knowledge of additional working languages of the Office or UN languages is considered an advantage, as it enhances communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to three years, subject to the availability of funds and satisfactory performance. The ILO values diversity and encourages applications from qualified female candidates and individuals with disabilities. The recruitment process includes an online application form, and selected candidates may be contacted for a written test or interview. The ILO has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and abuse and conducts background verifications of candidates. No fees are charged at any stage of the recruitment process.