Individual Contractor for Future of Work Project

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), which was established in 197

• ESCWA's mission is to promote economic and social development in the Arab region through regional cooperation and integration. The organization operates in multiple countries across the Arab region, focusing on various issues including economic growth, social development, and environmental sustainability. ESCWA aims to support member states in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and enhancing their capacities to address regional challenges. The organization employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with various stakeholders to implement its programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The position of Individual Contractor for the Future of Work Project is designed to address critical research areas related to labor markets, economic growth, and the impact of the Fourth Industrial Revolution on employment. The contractor will work in a hybrid environment, contributing to the assessment of labor market dynamics and the skills needed for future job categories. The role involves analyzing data from the ESCWA Skills Monitor and other sources to provide insights into labor market policies and the mismatch between education and job demand. The contractor will support ESCWA member states in preparing for the changes brought about by technological advancements, ensuring that they can harness new job opportunities while addressing the challenges posed by automation and evolving labor market needs. This position is crucial for informing policy decisions and promoting sustainable economic growth in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Individual Contractor will be responsible for a range of duties, including:

• Conducting substantive research related to the Future of Work Project, which involves reviewing existing literature and performing background analyses.
• Updating economic analyses based on the Skills Monitor results on a monthly basis, including detailed analysis of the findings.
• Performing data analysis using data from the ESCWA Skills Monitor and various government sources, including unemployment statistics across the region.
• Providing economic analysis to support technical assistance for countries in the region.
• Conducting skills gap assessments to identify discrepancies between available skills and labor market demands.
• Assisting in the development of technical assistance materials for Arab countries, including concept notes, training materials, and tailored policy research. The contractor will work under the supervision of the Team Leader of the Future of Work Project and will contribute to the overall objectives of the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in economics, social science, statistics, or a related field. A master’s degree is considered desirable. All applicants are required to submit a copy of their educational qualifications, as incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Additionally, candidates should have at least four years of relevant experience in economics, social science, statistics, or a related area. Knowledge of machine learning, experience with household and firm-level surveys, and proficiency in big data analysis are also desirable qualifications. Proven experience in economic data analysis, presentation, drafting, and visualization is essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as economics, social science, or statistics. A master’s degree is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of the subject matter. Candidates must provide documentation of their educational qualifications as part of the application process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of professional experience in fields related to economics, social science, or statistics. This experience should include practical knowledge and skills in economic data analysis, as well as familiarity with labor market dynamics and policy analysis. Candidates with experience in machine learning and big data analysis will have an advantage, as these skills are increasingly relevant in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and its impact on labor markets.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is mandatory for this position, as these are the working languages of ESCWA. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in all four areas of language use: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding. Knowledge of French is considered desirable, providing an additional asset for communication within the United Nations framework. The language requirements ensure effective collaboration and engagement with diverse stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered on a local basis, meaning that candidates must have the legal right to live and work in Lebanon. The expected duration of the contract is six months, and the role is hybrid, allowing for a combination of remote and in-office work. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring procedure. Candidates should be aware that the organization does not request personal banking information at any stage of the application process.