Economic Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations, established in 194

• Its mission is to contribute to the economic and social development of the region by designing, monitoring, and evaluating public policies. ECLAC provides advisory services, expertise, and training to governments, while also supporting regional and international cooperation and coordination activities. The organization operates across various countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing on economic issues pertinent to the region. For more information, visit www.eclac.org.

Job Overview:
The Economic Affairs Officer position is integral to the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, specifically within the International Trade and Integration Division. The officer will be responsible for monitoring economic developments in infrastructure, transport, and logistics, identifying issues of concern to the United Nations, and conducting studies on these topics. The role involves drafting reports, interpreting economic analysis, and formulating policy recommendations. The officer will also engage in intergovernmental support, providing substantive assistance on economic issues to various UN bodies and representing the organization at meetings. Additionally, the officer will design and monitor technical cooperation projects, conduct training seminars, and support junior staff, ensuring a collaborative and effective work environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economic Affairs Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Monitoring economic developments in infrastructure, transport, and logistics, identifying emerging issues.
• Designing and conducting studies, drafting reports, and interpreting economic data related to international trade.
• Developing policy recommendations and proposals for development strategies.
• Attending and representing the organization at international, regional, and national meetings.
• Organizing expert group meetings and seminars on development issues.
• Providing substantive support to intergovernmental bodies on economic matters.
• Designing and monitoring technical cooperation projects and conducting missions to member states.
• Preparing analyses to advise national governments on infrastructure and logistics issues.
• Conducting training seminars for government officials. 1
• Supporting junior staff and participating in broader departmental initiatives. 1
• Performing administrative tasks necessary for the delivery of the work unit’s services. 1
• Collecting and analyzing data to identify trends and provide insights for decision-making.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of economic theories and concepts, particularly in international trade, infrastructure, transport, and logistics. They should demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research, assess data validity, and develop data collection sources. Professionalism, effective communication, planning, and organizational skills are essential. The candidate should also be able to empower others, delegate responsibilities, and appreciate staff contributions.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, policy formulation, and application of economic principles in development programs is required. Experience in international trade, infrastructure, transport, and logistics is essential. Candidates should have a record of publications in economics or related fields and experience providing advisory services to governments or NGOs. Project coordination and management experience is also desirable, along with at least two years of experience in data analytics or related areas.

Languages:
English and Spanish are required for this position, as they are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is also beneficial. Candidates must meet the minimum required level for each skill in these languages according to the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
The position may involve a full-time commitment and could include responsibilities that require international travel. The role is aimed at professionals with a seniority level appropriate for an Economic Affairs Officer, and compensation will be aligned with UN standards. Additional benefits may include opportunities for professional development and training.