Socio-Demographic Data Specialist Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The UNFPA Pacific Sub-Regional Office (PSRO) is dedicated to providing technical assistance to 14 Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs) with the mission to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization focuses on supporting governments in generating, analyzing, and utilizing high-quality disaggregated data to inform National Population Policies (NPP) and sustainable development planning. UNFPA embodies principles of human rights and aims to recruit staff who are principled, ethical, and committed to delivering high-impact results. The organization emphasizes transparency and excellence in program results, making it a vital player in the region's development efforts.

Job Overview:
The Socio-Demographic Data Specialist Consultant will play a crucial role in providing high-level technical and statistical support to the Population & Development (P&D) unit. This position involves translating complex demographic data into actionable policy insights, strengthening national statistical capacities, and ensuring the technical integrity of UNFPA-supported population programs in the Pacific. The consultant will work under the direct supervision of the Population & Development Technical Advisor and will be responsible for leading data analysis, reporting, and capacity-building initiatives. The role is pivotal in enhancing the understanding and utilization of socio-demographic data among various stakeholders, thereby contributing to informed policy formulation and sustainable development planning.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to: leading or supporting in-depth analysis of population and housing census data, civil registration and vital statistics (CRVS) data, and various household survey data to identify key socio-demographic trends and disparities. They will draft analytical reports, policy briefs, factsheets, and presentations that synthesize complex data into clear insights for diverse audiences. The consultant will also develop statistical dashboards and visualizations to enhance data accessibility, contribute to national demographic projections, and support the drafting of population policies. Additionally, they will provide technical guidance and on-the-job training to national statistical office staff, assist in developing methodologies for data collection instruments, and support the integration of new data sources and technologies into existing statistical processes. The consultant will promote the use of socio-demographic data among stakeholders, facilitate consultations and workshops, and collaborate with national statistical offices and other partners to improve data dissemination and utilization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in Demography, Population Studies, Statistics, Economics, Social Sciences, or a related field with a strong quantitative component. They should have a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible professional experience in socio-demographic data analysis, statistical methods, and population studies, preferably within a national statistics office, academic institution, or international development organization. Demonstrated experience in analyzing complex population and housing census data and/or large-scale household survey data is essential. Proficiency in statistical software packages such as R, Stata, SPSS, SAS, or CSPro for data management and analysis is required, along with experience in data visualization tools and GIS software. Familiarity with the socio-economic and demographic context of Pacific Island Countries and Territories is a strong advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in a relevant field such as Demography, Population Studies, Statistics, Economics, or Social Sciences. The degree should have a strong quantitative component, equipping the candidate with the necessary analytical skills to handle complex demographic data effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible professional experience in the field of socio-demographic data analysis and statistical methods. Candidates should have experience working within a national statistics office, academic institution, or international development organization, with a proven track record in analyzing complex population and housing census data and large-scale household survey data. Experience in capacity building, training, and technical assistance delivery is also essential.

Languages:
A high level of proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of a major Pacific language is considered an asset, enhancing the consultant's ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The compensation for this consultancy will be on a monthly schedule, contingent upon the submission and approval of monthly reports. The UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics.