Data and Coordination Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. With a presence in over 190 countries, UNESCO aims to build peace in the minds of men and women through education, science, culture, and communication. The organization focuses on fostering sustainable development and addressing global challenges through its various programs and initiatives. UNESCO employs thousands of professionals worldwide, working collaboratively to achieve its goals and uphold its core values of commitment, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism.

Job Overview:
The Data and Coordination Specialist position is crucial for enhancing the education data systems in Syria, which have been severely impacted by the ongoing conflict. This role involves effective data analysis and management to support the Ministry of Education (MoE) in Syria, ensuring that education policies are informed by accurate and comprehensive data. The specialist will be responsible for coordinating with various stakeholders, including the MoE and other UN agencies, to facilitate the implementation of the UNESCO Syria Education Programme. The position requires translating project objectives into actionable plans, monitoring project progress, and providing technical support to address operational challenges. The specialist will also contribute to the development of a national EMIS Roadmap and a harmonized set of education indicators, ensuring alignment with international standards and the needs of the Syrian education sector. This role is vital for building institutional capacities and improving the quality of education for displaced and marginalized children in Syria.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Data and Coordination Specialist will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: acting as the primary technical focal point for coordination with the MoE; implementing the UNESCO Action Plan for Syria; translating project objectives into operational actions; facilitating technical exchanges and meetings; monitoring project activities and identifying risks; providing technical advice to MoE counterparts; documenting feedback and decisions; coordinating with UN agencies and education sector partners; preparing technical documentation and progress reports; and performing additional activities as required to ensure project implementation. The specialist will also be expected to contribute to the development of a national framework for education data governance and enhance the Modeer platform to improve data management and reporting capabilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or higher) in fields such as Education, Data Science, Statistics, Information Management, Economics, or International Development. Additionally, candidates should have at least four years of relevant professional experience in education policy and planning, project coordination, education monitoring, research, evaluation, data analysis, and database management. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, organizational abilities, and the capacity to work under pressure are essential for this role. Candidates should also demonstrate discretion and the ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's or higher) in relevant fields such as Education, Data Science, Statistics, Information Management, Economics, or Teacher Professional Development. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of education systems and data management, particularly in fragile contexts like Syria.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of relevant professional experience in areas such as education policy and planning, project coordination, education monitoring, research, evaluation, data analysis, and information management. Experience in managing large datasets, producing analytical reports, and working in fragile or humanitarian contexts is highly desirable. Familiarity with education monitoring and data governance frameworks is also beneficial.

Languages:
Candidates must have excellent knowledge of both spoken and written English and Arabic. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with stakeholders and for the preparation of technical documentation and reports. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 12 months, and it is open to external candidates. The role is classified at the SC5 level, indicating a seniority level that requires significant expertise and experience. The position is based in Damascus, Syria, and involves on-site work. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence, and integrity in its hiring process, and it applies a zero-tolerance policy against harassment. All applications will be treated confidentially, and candidates from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities, are encouraged to apply. The statutory retirement age at UNESCO is 65 years, and the organization does not charge any fees during the hiring process.