National UN Volunteer - Research, Assessment, and Monitoring

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the food assistance branch of the United Nations and the world's largest humanitarian organization addressing hunger and promoting security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, providing food assistance in emergencies and working with communities to improve nutrition and build resilience. The organization aims to eradicate hunger and malnutrition, supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 2, which focuses on zero hunger. WFP's mission is to ensure that no child goes to bed hungry and that every person has access to the food they need to lead a healthy life. In Iraq, WFP's strategic plan is informed by a zero hunger strategic review conducted in 2018, focusing on enabling national programs and supporting the government in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The National UN Volunteer in the Research, Assessment, and Monitoring (RAM) unit will play a crucial role in supporting the design and implementation of assessments and thematic studies across WFP Iraq’s program portfolio. This position requires effective data collection, validation, and analysis, ensuring that the information gathered is contextualized and relevant to the needs of the program. The volunteer will coordinate with WFP field offices, government stakeholders, and partners to ensure quality data collection and timely dissemination of assessment results. The role also involves providing technical analytical support for various monitoring activities, including Post-Distribution Monitoring (PDM) and baseline surveys, ensuring alignment with WFP standards and Iraq’s national priorities. The volunteer will utilize advanced statistical and geospatial tools to evaluate environmental degradation and socio-economic impacts, contributing to evidence-based programming and targeting strategies. This position is integral to strengthening national capacities and promoting data ownership, ultimately enhancing community resilience and food security in Iraq.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National UN Volunteer include:

• Supporting the design and implementation of assessments and thematic studies across WFP Iraq’s program portfolio.
• Ensuring effective data collection, validation, and contextualized analysis in coordination with WFP field offices and partners.
• Compiling, quality-assuring, and disseminating assessment results to inform program management and strategic decision-making.
• Providing technical analytical support for Post-Distribution Monitoring (PDM) and other evidence-generation activities.
• Conducting advanced methodological refinement and contributing to integrated climate and resilience analysis.
• Utilizing statistical and geospatial tools to evaluate environmental degradation and livelihood vulnerabilities.
• Leading geospatial mapping and data visualization efforts to improve targeting accuracy.
• Supporting the development of targeting methodologies for social protection programs.
• Strengthening national capacities by working closely with government counterparts. 1
• Supporting the development of an integrated national monitoring system for real-time data collection and predictive analytics. 1
• Conducting structured food security analysis and providing findings for programmatic response. 1
• Managing the implementation of food security monitoring systems and investigating anomalies in datasets. 1
• Providing managerial and technical guidance for designing and conducting analyses. 1
• Leading all aspects of surveys, ensuring findings are translated into operational responses. 1
• Participating in response analysis exercises to improve cohesion between analytical findings and programmatic response.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a strong background in research, data analysis, and monitoring. Candidates should possess skills in statistical and geospatial analysis, as well as experience in conducting assessments and surveys. Familiarity with food security and nutrition issues, particularly in the context of Iraq, is essential. The ability to work collaboratively with government stakeholders and partners is crucial, as is the capacity to communicate findings effectively to inform decision-making. Proficiency in data visualization and the use of relevant software tools is also required. Candidates should demonstrate adaptability, creativity, and professionalism in their approach to the role.

Educational Background:
A degree in social sciences, statistics, economics, or a related field is required for this position. Advanced degrees or specialized training in research methodologies, data analysis, or food security are highly desirable. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the socio-economic context of Iraq and the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2-3 years of relevant experience in research, data analysis, or monitoring and evaluation, preferably in a humanitarian or development context. Experience working with international organizations, government agencies, or NGOs in Iraq or similar settings is an advantage. Familiarity with food security assessments and monitoring systems is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of Arabic is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of data collection efforts. Additional languages may be considered an asset, depending on the context of the work.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment, and the volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. National UN Volunteers receive a monthly living allowance to sustain a basic, adequate, and safe lifestyle, which varies based on local living costs. The allowance is not considered compensation but is intended to cover basic living expenses. Additional benefits include a danger and hardship differential, entry lump sum, exit allowance, annual and learning leaves, medical and life insurance, and access to various learning platforms. For more information on UN Volunteer benefits and conditions of service, please refer to the provided links.