UN Economist

UN Economist

United Nations Secretariat

September 28, 2026October 29, 2026RabatMorocco
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was restructured on January 1, 2019, under the leadership of the UN Secretary-General 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 tasked with supporting countries in their development priorities. The Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was transformed into a stand-alone office within the UN Secretariat, overseeing the resident coordinator system. The DCO's functions include managerial oversight and ensuring that the RC system is configured to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda, focusing on data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven culture. The UN RCO operates under the supervision of the Head of RCO and collaborates with various divisions to align SDG policies and financing.

Job Overview:
The UN Economist position is critical in providing substantive economic analysis and evidence-based advice on sustainable development, economic transformation, and SDG financing. The incumbent will engage in extensive research and analysis of economic, social, and sustainable development data, focusing on emerging trends and best practices. The role involves supporting the Resident Coordinator and the UN Country Team in identifying challenges and opportunities for accelerating progress towards the SDGs, ensuring that gender equality and inclusivity are prioritized. The economist will also be responsible for implementing global guidelines related to economic transformation and SDG financing, contributing to policy papers, analytical notes, and reports, and monitoring economic developments that impact sustainable development at the country level. Additionally, the position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government entities, private sector actors, and civil society, to foster partnerships and enhance the UN's support for sustainable economic development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:
  • Conducting substantive economic analysis and providing evidence-based advice on sustainable development and SDG financing.
  • Researching and analyzing economic and development data to identify trends and gaps, proposing actions to strengthen programming and decision-making.
  • Preparing policy papers, analytical notes, and reports on economic transformation and SDG financing.
  • Supporting partnerships with national counterparts and stakeholders on economic transformation and SDG financing.
  • Contributing to the UN sustainable development programming cycle, including the Common Country Analysis and the UNSDCF.
  • Engaging with various stakeholders to identify collaboration opportunities and support sustainable economic transformation.
  • Contributing to knowledge management and learning on economic transformation and SDG financing, sharing best practices and lessons learned.
  • Documenting and disseminating knowledge generated through analytical and program support activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Economics. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of sustainable development theories and the ability to conduct independent research and analysis.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Economics is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree along with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. Completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics or related fields is considered an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, macroeconomic or socioeconomic policy, or development economics is required. Candidates should have experience in conducting economic and policy analysis, translating development trends into actionable policy options, and working with various stakeholders in support of sustainable development priorities. Experience in SDG financing and development finance is essential, along with familiarity with inclusive approaches that consider gender equality and other social factors.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, and proficiency in both is required for this position. Arabic is considered a desirable language skill. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English and French at UN Level III, while Arabic proficiency at UN Level I is advantageous.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position for a duration of one year, with no expectation of renewal. The position is open to nationals of Morocco only, and candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. If no suitable local candidates are found, Moroccan nationals residing elsewhere may be considered, but they will be responsible for relocation costs. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. All applicants must adhere to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, and the recruitment process is free of charge.
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