UN Associate Data Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was reformed on January 1, 2019, to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This reform led to the establishment of the UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO), which are led by an independent UN Resident Coordinator. The UN Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was transformed into a stand-alone office within the UN Secretariat, overseeing the resident coordinator system. The DCO aims to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda through data-driven strategies and innovative approaches.

Job Overview:
The Associate Data Specialist plays a crucial role in the UN Resident Coordination Office (RCO) in Freetown, Sierra Leone. This position involves collaborating with various stakeholders, including data engineers, data scientists, and external partners, to develop and implement databases, data collection systems, and analytics that enhance statistical efficiency and quality. The specialist will be responsible for identifying data sources, analyzing trends, and improving data processes to support evidence-based decision-making across development, humanitarian, and peace initiatives. The role requires a proactive approach to data management and the ability to communicate findings effectively to management and stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for developing and implementing databases and data collection systems, identifying data sources for analytics projects, and optimizing statistical efficiency. They will analyze trends using statistical methods, maintain data quality, and develop reports and dashboards to summarize findings. The role includes documenting methodologies, drafting inputs for various reports, and contributing to the development of monitoring tools for data accuracy. The specialist will also design internal process improvements, automate manual processes, and collaborate with data engineers to enhance data flows. Additional responsibilities include conducting data collection and preliminary analysis, creating data visualization outputs, and building capacity among staff and partners through training.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in fields such as computer science, data science, analytics, or related quantitative disciplines. A first-level university degree combined with relevant experience may be accepted. Professional certifications in data engineering, data management, or analytics are desirable. The role requires strong analytical skills, the ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions, and experience in quality assurance of data analysis outputs.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in computer science, data science, analytics, statistics, applied mathematics, information management, or a related quantitative field is required. A Bachelor's degree may be accepted with qualifying experience. Professional certifications in relevant fields are also desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in data analytics or related areas is required. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to perform quality assurance of data analysis outputs and assess data accuracy. Experience with data visualization tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or similar is desirable, as is experience in data storytelling and analytics.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term position for an initial period of one year, subject to budgetary approval and availability of funds. The position is open to nationals of Sierra Leone, and candidates residing outside the country may be considered if no suitable local candidates are found. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.