UN Associate Data Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was restructured 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's mission is to ensure that the UN system is optimally configured to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda, focusing on data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven culture. The organization operates globally, with a commitment to sustainable development and collaboration with various stakeholders, including national governments, NGOs, and other UN agencies.

Job Overview:
The Associate Data Specialist plays a crucial role in the UN Resident Coordinator Office (RCO) in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. This position involves collaborating with various counterparts, including technical staff and data specialists, to develop and implement databases, data collection systems, and data analytics that enhance statistical efficiency and quality. The incumbent will engage with external partners, including UN funds and programs, to exchange information and best practices. The role requires a proactive approach to data management, ensuring that the UN's development priorities are met through effective data-driven strategies. The Associate Data Specialist will also contribute to the development of monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) products, keeping abreast of digital tools and dashboards that track progress against national SDG indicators. This position is integral to supporting the UN's mission of sustainable development and requires a strong analytical mindset and the ability to communicate findings effectively to management and stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for implementing databases, data collection systems, and data analytics strategies to optimize statistical efficiency and quality. Key responsibilities include identifying and analyzing trends using statistical methods, improving data analytics processes, and maintaining databases. The Associate Data Specialist will develop MEL products for UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks, track progress on data initiatives, and create data visualization outputs to aid decision-making. Additional duties involve assisting with data collection, conducting outcome-level analysis, and contributing to capacity-building activities for staff on data analytics. The role also includes compiling data insights for stakeholder communications and supporting the integration of monitoring milestones into common data pipelines. The incumbent will perform other related tasks as assigned, ensuring that all activities align with the UN's goals and standards.

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, information management, or social sciences. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's) combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. The position requires strong analytical skills, knowledge of sustainable development theories, and the ability to undertake research and analyze data effectively. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, communication skills, and teamwork capabilities, with a commitment to gender equality in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as computer science, data science, analytics, statistics, applied mathematics, information management, or social sciences is required. A first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) may be accepted if accompanied by two additional years of qualifying experience. This educational background is essential for understanding complex data systems and contributing effectively to the UN's development goals.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in data analysis, demonstrating the ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions, is required. Candidates should have experience in quality assurance of data analysis outputs, data validation, and familiarity with data visualization tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or Qlik. Knowledge of the data life cycle, including data collection, analysis, and reporting, is also desirable. Project management skills are an added advantage, as they contribute to the effective execution of data-related projects within the UN framework.

Languages:
English and Spanish are mandatory for this position, with English being required at UN Level III proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Spanish is also required at the same proficiency level. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, but not mandatory. Proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication within the UN and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position available for a duration of one year, with no expectation of renewal. The appointment is subject to budgetary approval and the availability of the post. The position is open to nationals of Honduras only, and candidates must possess knowledge of the national language, culture, and systems. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and candidates are advised to apply online as soon as possible.