National Research Consultant for Data and Market Mapping

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established in 197

• Its mission is to promote economic and social development in the Arab region through regional cooperation and integration. ESCWA works with member states to strengthen their capacities in various areas including economic governance, sustainable development, and social justice. The organization employs a diverse team of professionals and operates in multiple countries across the Arab region, focusing on enhancing the quality of life for people in the region through evidence-based policy-making and technical assistance.

Job Overview:
The National Research Consultant for Data and Market Mapping will play a crucial role in supporting the Oman building materials project, which aims to enhance competition and market functioning in the sector. The consultant will be responsible for compiling, organizing, and verifying data related to the building materials market, ensuring that the information is accurate and well-documented. This position requires a strong background in data management and analysis, as the consultant will be tasked with preparing chart-ready datasets, checking figures, and maintaining a comprehensive project data repository. The consultant will also document stakeholder inputs and assist in the preparation of the final report, contributing to the overall success of the project. The role is expected to last for three months, during which the consultant will work closely with the project team to deliver high-quality outputs that meet the project's objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Compile, clean, and organize sectoral and macroeconomic data using HS and ISIC classifications.
• Update the project data repository and maintain source references.
• Prepare a basic data dictionary and identify missing or inconsistent information.
• Prepare chart-ready datasets and support the organization of charts for the project dashboard.
• Check figures, calculations, and source references, and maintain a log of discrepancies and corrections.
• Support peer review of the final report by verifying reported figures against source data.
• Document stakeholder inputs and maintain related project records.
• Assist in implementing data-access arrangements as specified by the Project Manager.
• Contribute to other activities and projects under the Economic Governance, Development Planning and Regulatory Modernization workstream as required.

Required Qualifications:
A Bachelor's degree in Economics, Econometrics, Statistics, or related fields is required. A Master's degree in a relevant field is desirable. Candidates must have a minimum of two years of professional experience in data collection, data cleaning, spreadsheet management, chart preparation, and research documentation. Experience in data visualization or dashboard-related work is also desirable. Candidates must submit a copy of their educational degree as part of the application process, as incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess at least a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Economics, Econometrics, or Statistics. A Master's degree is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's profile. It is essential for applicants to provide proof of their educational qualifications, as this is a critical requirement for the application process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of professional experience in relevant areas such as data collection, data cleaning, and research documentation. Candidates should have experience in managing spreadsheets and preparing charts, as well as familiarity with data visualization techniques. Experience in supporting dashboard-related work is also advantageous and will be viewed favorably during the selection process.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations and ESCWA. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in all four language skills: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding. Knowledge of French is considered a plus, as it is also a working language of the United Nations Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
This position is based locally in Beirut, Lebanon, and candidates must have the legal right to live and work in the country. The recruitment process is conducted on a local basis, and the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. The position is expected to last for three months, and the consultant will be engaged on a full-time basis during this period. The role is essential for supporting the ESCWA's mission to enhance competition frameworks and improve market performance in the region.