Economic Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Trade Analysis Branch of the Division on International Trade in Goods and Services, and Commodities of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and is dedicated to promoting the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization focuses on trade, investment, and sustainable development, and operates in over 190 countries, employing thousands of staff members worldwide. Its mission is to support developing countries in their efforts to achieve sustainable economic growth and development through trade and investment.

Job Overview:
The Economic Affairs Officer will play a crucial role in conducting economic or sector analysis, developing socio-economic databases, and interpreting econometric models to analyze trends and policy impacts. This position requires drafting technical papers and analytical studies on various aspects of trade and economic development. The officer will also engage in discussions at international, regional, and national meetings, assist in organizing expert group meetings, and prepare speeches for senior staff. The role involves technical cooperation, including participating in missions, organizing training seminars, and monitoring the implementation of technical cooperation programs. The officer will also be responsible for various administrative tasks to ensure the effective delivery of the work unit’s services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economic Affairs Officer will be responsible for the following duties:

• Develop socio-economic databases and qualitative information for recurrent or ad hoc assignments.
• Interpret and adapt econometric models to analyze trends and policy impacts.
• Draft inputs for technical papers and analytical studies on trade and economic development.
• Identify and analyze policy proposals related to assigned topics.
• Attend international, regional, and national meetings to gather information and engage with colleagues.
• Assist in organizing expert group meetings and seminars on development issues.
• Prepare speeches and presentations for senior staff.
• Participate in missions on development issues as part of a team.
• Organize training seminars for national experts. 1
• Prepare documentation for technical cooperation programs and projects. 1
• Monitor and assess the implementation of technical cooperation programs. 1
• Perform other related duties as required, including administrative tasks necessary for the work unit’s services. 1
• Undertake training activities, both internally and externally.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics or a related field. A first-level university degree in economics or a related field, combined with two additional years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of economic theories and concepts, particularly in relation to trade and sustainable development. They must also exhibit the ability to conduct independent research and validate data from various sources.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics or a related field is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in economics or a related field, along with two additional years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is essential for understanding complex economic concepts and applying them effectively in the role.

Experience:
A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, policy formulation, and the application of economic principles in development programs or related areas is required. Experience working with international trade and trade policy data, including non-tariff measures, is desirable. Additionally, candidates should have experience in quantitative data analysis using econometric methods and statistical packages, such as Stata. At least two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in project management and administration, including organizing meetings and managing financial aspects, is also desirable.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, and both are required for this position. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both languages. Additionally, knowledge of either Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), Russian, or Spanish is desirable, although not mandatory. Proficiency levels are defined according to the UN Language Framework, with specific levels required for each language skill.

Additional Notes:
This position is funded through a project and is subject to the availability of funds. The initial duration of the appointment is three (3) months, starting as soon as possible. The United Nations Secretariat is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Candidates should be aware that there is no expectation of a fixed-term appointment following this temporary assignment. The selection process may include an assessment exercise and a competency-based interview. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.