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 operate under the leadership of an empowered 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 is focused on ensuring that the UN system is optimally configured to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda, emphasizing data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven organizational culture. The UN RCO in Banjul, Gambia, is part of this system, working to support the country's development priorities and the attainment of the SDGs.

Job Overview:
The Associate Data Specialist plays a crucial role in the UN Resident Coordinator Office by engaging with various stakeholders, including counterparts, technical staff, and data specialists. The position involves the development and implementation of databases, data collection systems, and data analytics to enhance statistical efficiency and quality. The specialist will work closely with external partners, including UN funds and programs, to exchange information and best practices. The role requires a strong focus on data engineering and data science, contributing to the overall mission of the UN in supporting sustainable development initiatives. The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring that data-driven decision-making is at the forefront of the UN's operations in Gambia, thereby directly impacting the effectiveness of development programs and initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Data Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to:

• Developing and implementing databases and data collection systems;
• Identifying and analyzing trends using statistical methods;
• Maintaining and quality-assuring databases;
• Contributing to monitoring and evaluation products for the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework;
• Developing reports and dashboards to summarize findings;
• Assisting in statistical capacity-building for UNCT;
• Conducting outcome-level analysis and documenting methodologies;
• Collaborating with national statistical partners to design digital tools;
• Drafting inputs for various documents and reports; 1
• Implementing solutions for data-related technical problems; 1
• Contributing to the creation of data visualization outputs; 1
• Supporting data collection and preliminary analysis; 1
• Keeping abreast of trends in data analytics; 1
• Building capacity on data analytics through training; 1
• Contributing to the design of data science products using advanced analytical methods; 1
• Serving as a resource person on data analytics; 1
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in fields such as computer science, data science, analytics, statistics, applied mathematics, or related quantitative fields. A first-level university degree (Bachelor's) combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of sustainable development theories and concepts, as well as the ability to analyze and interpret data effectively. Professionalism, communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively are essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in computer science, data science, analytics, statistics, applied mathematics, information management, or a related quantitative field is required. A first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) may be accepted in combination with qualifying experience.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in data analytics or a related area is required. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions and perform quality assurance of data analysis outputs. Experience with data storytelling and visualization tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or R is desirable. One year or more of experience in data analytics is also preferred.

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. French is also a working language of the United Nations Secretariat, but proficiency in French is not mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term position with an initial appointment period of one year, subject to availability of funds and budgetary approval. The position is open to nationals of Gambia, and candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. If no suitable local candidates are found, Gambia nationals residing elsewhere may be considered. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process is free of charge, and the UN does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.