Consultant for Small Area Estimation and Geospatial Population Modelling

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights, aiming to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, employing approximately 4,000 staff members. The organization is dedicated to advancing the global agenda on population and development, particularly in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). UNFPA's mission emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making and the empowerment of individuals, particularly women and girls, in achieving health and development outcomes.

Job Overview:
The consultancy role is designed to support UNFPA Nepal and the National Statistics Office (NSO) in enhancing and consolidating Small Area Estimation (SAE) and geospatial population modelling efforts initiated during the 2024-2025 period. The consultant will build upon existing data sources, including Census 2021 and NDHS 2022, to generate municipality-level population and development indicators, as well as sub-ward population estimates. This role is critical in addressing the current lack of reliable data for health, education, and other essential services at a granular level. The consultant will focus on knowledge transfer and capacity building, ensuring that local institutions can independently produce and update SAE-based estimates and geospatial products. The ultimate goal is to improve planning, prioritization, and humanitarian response through the development of accurate and actionable data.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: reviewing and assessing existing SAE models based on NDHS 2022 and Census 2021, proposing necessary refinements; producing municipality-level estimates for selected UNFPA-mandate indicators; acquiring and processing geospatial data to support sub-ward population estimation; developing vulnerability indicators using socio-demographic and housing variables; integrating population and vulnerability data with hazard or accessibility layers; designing and delivering structured training programs for NSO and UNFPA staff; backstopping training participants to produce estimates; developing reproducible analytical workflows and documentation; and collaborating with UNFPA and NSO to apply validation strategies for SAE outputs. This comprehensive set of responsibilities underscores the importance of both technical expertise and effective communication in the role.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in demography, statistics, geography, data science, or a related field. They should have at least 5 years of demonstrated expertise in advanced statistical analysis and modeling, with a strong background in Small Area Estimation techniques and spatial statistical modelling. Proficiency in relevant statistical and GIS software is essential, along with proven experience working with census, DHS, and geospatial datasets in developing country contexts. Experience engaging with government statistical offices and supporting capacity strengthening initiatives is also required. Excellent report writing skills in English are necessary for effective communication of findings and recommendations.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in demography, statistics, geography, data science, or a related field is required for this consultancy position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of population data analysis and geospatial modelling, which are central to the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in advanced statistical analysis and modelling. Candidates should have a strong track record in Small Area Estimation techniques and spatial statistical modelling, particularly within the context of developing countries. Experience with census, DHS, and geospatial datasets is essential, as is familiarity with government statistical offices and capacity strengthening efforts. Prior experience in Nepal or similar contexts is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's understanding of local data challenges and opportunities.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory, as well as proficiency in Nepali. These language skills are essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and for the preparation of reports and documentation.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy role is expected to be full-time and may involve a contract duration that aligns with the project timeline. UNFPA is committed to diversity and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, and persons with disabilities. The organization promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, and compensation, ensuring a supportive work environment that reflects its values of gender equality and diversity. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to facilitate their participation in the recruitment process.