Data Analysis Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The organization behind this job posting is UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, which was established in 196

• UNFPA is dedicated to ensuring that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization operates in over 150 countries, with a mission to promote reproductive health and rights, and to support population and development strategies. UNFPA works with governments and partners to provide data and analysis that inform policies and programs, particularly in the areas of population dynamics, gender equality, and health.

Job Overview:
The Data Analysis Consultant will play a crucial role in the 2026 Population and Housing Census in Sierra Leone, which aims to generate a comprehensive dataset essential for evidence-based policymaking and development planning. The consultant will be responsible for analyzing census data and producing high-quality statistical outputs, reports, and visualizations that will inform policy and development planning. This position requires close collaboration with Statistics Sierra Leone and UNFPA to ensure that the data processing flow is effectively planned, organized, implemented, monitored, and evaluated. The consultant will also be expected to train local staff on data analysis techniques, report writing, and data visualization, thereby building local capacity in these critical areas.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include conducting descriptive and inferential statistical analysis, generating key demographic and socio-economic indicators, and segmenting data by various variables. They will produce standard census tables for dissemination and support the preparation of the initial pilot census report. The consultant will develop thematic analytical reports on topics such as population structure, fertility, and migration, ensuring that all reports meet international standards set by UN guidelines. Additionally, the consultant will create data visualizations, including charts, graphs, and infographics, to effectively communicate findings to both technical and non-technical audiences. They will also produce policy briefs and summary reports that highlight key trends and implications for national planning. The consultant will work closely with the Data Processing Consultant, provide feedback on data quality, and support dissemination activities. Training sessions for Statistics Sierra Leone staff will be a key component of the role, ensuring that local capabilities are enhanced.

Required Qualifications:
The consultant must possess an advanced degree in Statistics, Demography, Economics, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field from a recognized university. They should have at least five years of experience in processing household survey data captured using tablets for computer-assisted personal interviews (CAPI) and Survey Solutions software. A minimum of ten years of demonstrated professional experience in conducting quality assurance of household-based surveys and population censuses is required, along with experience in data processing, systems design, and data archiving. The consultant should have at least five years of experience working with statistical and demographic analysis software such as CSPRO and SPSS, and knowledge of Python or R would be advantageous. Familiarity with modern technology and equipment used in census data processing, as well as an understanding of the challenges faced by developing countries in relation to population census, is essential. Proven experience in planning and implementing census data processing and technical capacity building in developing countries is also required, along with strong teamwork skills and experience in leading teams in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have at least an advanced degree in a relevant field such as Statistics, Demography, Economics, Computer Science, or Data Science from a recognized university. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of data analysis and interpretation required for the census.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically at least five years in processing household survey data and a minimum of ten years in quality assurance of surveys and population censuses. The consultant should have extensive experience in data processing, systems design, and data archiving, as well as a proven track record in conducting statistical analysis and producing high-quality reports.

Languages:
Fluent spoken and written English is essential for this position. While English is the mandatory language, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context or the populations being studied.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for three months, from April 20 to July 19, 202

• The payment schedule is based on milestones, with 30% paid upon submission of the inception report and analysis plan, 40% upon submission of draft outputs, and the remaining 30% upon completion of final deliverables. The consultant will be stationed at Statistics Sierra Leone and will report to the Director of Data Science, with technical oversight from UNFPA. Weekly meetings will be held to monitor progress, and the consultant is expected to travel within Sierra Leone as needed. Confidentiality and data integrity are paramount, and the consultant must adhere to strict data protection policies. UNFPA promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from underrepresented groups.