Economics Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization focuses on various areas, including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience, and aims to support countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP collaborates with governments, civil society, and the private sector to implement projects and initiatives that address pressing development challenges.

Job Overview:
The Economics Analyst position is crucial for supporting municipalities, public utilities, and the UNDP Programme team in the development and analysis of economic and operational models related to district heating and energy efficiency investments. The incumbent will engage in investment justification, cost-benefit analysis, affordability assessments, scenario modeling, and forecasting related to demand and tariffs. This role is designed to enhance the quality and bankability of district heating investment projects, ensuring they align with international standards and contribute to the overall resilience and sustainability of energy supply systems in Ukraine. The position requires a strong analytical background and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to facilitate effective access to sustainable finance and improve the operational reliability of heat supply systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economics Analyst will perform a comprehensive set of duties, including:

• Economic Modelling and Investment Analysis: Develop and maintain economic and investment analysis models for sub-projects, prepare multi-period economic forecasting models, assess key economic indicators, and validate economic models submitted by sub-borrowers.
• Operational Forecasting and Cost Analysis: Conduct operational cost and revenue analysis, prepare investment-period forecasts, assess liquidity and operational risks, and produce consolidated forecasting summaries.
• Stakeholder Support and Technical Assistance: Provide technical assistance to municipal administrations and utility companies, liaise with partner banks, support the preparation of sub-project data packages, and advise on infrastructure investment planning.
• Knowledge Management, Reporting, and Capacity Building: Prepare analytical briefs for progress reports, document good practices, conduct training sessions for municipal representatives, and contribute to regular reporting on Programme progress. The incumbent will also maintain regular contacts with sub-borrowing entities and partner banks, ensuring effective communication and collaboration throughout the project lifecycle.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as Economics, Public Administration, Energy Management, or related areas. Alternatively, a first university degree (Bachelor's degree) combined with two additional years of relevant experience will be considered. The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience with a Master’s degree or four years with a Bachelor’s degree in economic analysis, infrastructure planning, investment modeling, budgeting, or utility performance analysis, preferably within the energy or municipal infrastructure sectors. Candidates should have experience in preparing analytical reports, feasibility assessments, and working with quantitative financial data, along with advanced MS Excel skills for modeling and forecasting.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Economics, Public Administration, Energy Management, Infrastructure Planning, Utility Management, Business Administration, Data Analytics, or closely related fields. A first university degree (Bachelor's degree) in these areas, combined with additional relevant experience, will also be considered. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of economic modeling and investment analysis in the context of district heating and energy efficiency projects.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience for candidates with a Master’s degree or four years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. This experience should be in economic analysis, infrastructure planning, investment modeling, budgeting, utility performance analysis, or cost-benefit analysis, ideally within the energy, municipal infrastructure, public utilities, or development sectors. Candidates should demonstrate a strong background in preparing analytical reports and feasibility assessments, as well as experience working with quantitative financial and operational data.

Languages:
Fluency in Ukrainian and English is required for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with stakeholders, preparation of project documentation, and participation in technical evaluations. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is a national professional role within the UNDP Ukraine District Heating Programme Technical Assistance. It involves full-time engagement and requires the incumbent to work closely with various stakeholders, including municipalities, utility companies, and partner banks. The role is critical for enhancing the operational reliability and sustainability of district heating systems in Ukraine, particularly in the context of ongoing recovery efforts. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and ensures a fair recruitment process.