Research and Analysis Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Joint Inspection Unit (JIU) is the only external independent oversight body of the United Nations system. Established to enhance management and administrative efficiency, the JIU promotes greater coordination among UN agencies and other oversight bodies. It operates under the authority of the General Assembly and is accountable to various legislative organs of specialized agencies within the UN system. The JIU is committed to ensuring that its operations are transparent and effective, and it engages in various oversight activities to improve the functioning of the UN system. The organization is composed of a small team of inspectors and professional staff who work collaboratively to fulfill its mandate across multiple countries and sectors.

Job Overview:
The Research and Analysis Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the JIU's mandate by working closely with JIU Inspectors and the professional staff of the JIU Secretariat. The position requires a motivated individual who can operate independently with minimal supervision. The officer will be involved in various aspects of the JIU's review processes, including participating in team meetings, conducting qualitative and quantitative research, and preparing documentation. The role demands strong analytical skills and the ability to present findings clearly and professionally. The officer will also be responsible for administrative tasks, communication with stakeholders, and document management, ensuring that all activities align with the JIU's objectives and standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Participating in team meetings and external stakeholder meetings, preparing meeting notes and mission reports as needed.
• Conducting qualitative and quantitative research and analysis, utilizing technologies such as MS Excel and AI tools.
• Drafting interview guides, questionnaires, and surveys, and consolidating findings for analysis.
• Presenting research findings using data visualization tools and drafting key documents, including text, tables, and graphs.
• Managing administrative tasks such as preparing travel cost estimates, supporting recruitment processes, and tracking project milestones.
• Communicating with stakeholders by preparing notification letters, meeting invitations, and correspondence.
• Managing documents by creating folders for internal use, proofreading, formatting, and liaising with editors and translators.
• Keeping up-to-date information on JIU participating organizations and monitoring the implementation of JIU recommendations.
• Actively participating in quality assurance and improvement activities within the JIU.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A first-level university degree or higher is preferred and can reduce the required work experience. The ideal candidate should have at least seven years of experience in research or analysis related to oversight activities, strategic or operational analysis, risk management, or performance monitoring. Experience in the UN system or similar international organizations is desirable, along with skills in supporting communication activities and drafting public documents. Familiarity with organizing surveys and interviews is also beneficial.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher will have a reduced experience requirement, making them more competitive for the role. The educational background should ideally include formal training in research methodologies, data analysis, and communication skills relevant to the functions of the JIU.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in research or analysis, particularly in oversight activities, strategic, financial, or operational analysis, risk management, or performance monitoring. For candidates with a first-level university degree or higher, the minimum experience requirement is reduced to five years. Experience in the United Nations or similar international organizations is highly desirable, as is experience in supporting communication activities and drafting public documents. Candidates should also have experience in organizing surveys and interviews with diverse stakeholders and analyzing the responses received.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered a desirable language, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I. Proficiency in both languages will enhance communication and collaboration within the UN system and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension. The position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that applicants must be authorized to work in Switzerland. Selected candidates from outside the duty station will be responsible for their relocation expenses. Staff members subject to local recruitment are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce and is committed to creating a respectful environment for all employees. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.