UN Economist

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. This office is responsible for supporting countries in achieving their development priorities and aligning with the SDGs. The UN Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was transformed into a stand-alone entity within the UN Secretariat, overseeing the resident coordinator system. The DCO's functions were recalibrated in 2026 to ensure optimal support for the 2030 Agenda, focusing on data, digital innovation, and strategic foresight. The Economist role is integral to this mission, working closely with various UN entities and stakeholders to advance sustainable development initiatives.

Job Overview:
The UN Economist position is pivotal in providing substantive support for evidence-based analysis related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The incumbent will engage in economic and policy analysis to assist the Resident Coordinator (RC) and the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in accelerating SDG implementation, particularly in the context of EU accession reforms and economic transformation. The role involves developing partnerships with national counterparts, including government entities, International Financial Institutions (IFIs), and the private sector, to foster sustainable economic transformation and financing for the SDGs. The Economist will contribute to integrated UN country-level analysis and planning processes, ensuring alignment with national reform agendas and the Cooperation Framework. This position requires a strong focus on knowledge generation and management, supporting a shared understanding of sustainable development trends and challenges within the UNCT.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economist will be responsible for a range of duties, including:

• Providing substantive support for evidence-based analysis of progress towards the SDGs, focusing on economic transformation, investment, and SDG financing.
• Supporting the RC and UNCT in developing partnerships with various stakeholders to advance SDG acceleration and sustainable economic transformation.
• Conducting economic analysis and supporting integrated UN country-level planning processes, including the UN Country Analysis and Cooperation Framework.
• Contributing to knowledge generation on SDG acceleration and economic transformation, ensuring a shared understanding within the UNCT.
• Conducting analysis on macroeconomic trends and their implications for sustainable development, preparing policy papers and analytical notes.
• Engaging with national counterparts and stakeholders to facilitate collaboration on economic reforms and financing solutions.
• Supporting the development of investment-ready SDG initiatives and contributing to the UN sustainable development programming cycle.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree 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. Professionalism, planning and organizing skills, teamwork, and client orientation are essential competencies for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is an advanced university degree in Economics. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. Completion of degree or 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 recommendations, and working with multiple stakeholders in a development cooperation context. Experience in SDG financing and knowledge management is desirable, as is familiarity with Albania’s EU integration process.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Albanian is required for this position, with a minimum UN Level II proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for both languages. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position 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 Albania only, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and diversity in its workforce.