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. The UN Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was transformed into a stand-alone office to oversee the resident coordinator system, ensuring alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Group's priorities. The DCO's recalibration in 2026 aimed to optimize support for the 2030 Agenda, emphasizing data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven culture. The position is situated within the UN RCO in Cairo, Egypt, reporting to the Head of RCO, while also collaborating with various sections to ensure coherence in SDG policy and financing support.

Job Overview:
The UN Economist position involves providing substantive economic analysis and support for evidence-based advice on sustainable development, economic transformation, and SDG financing. The incumbent will research and analyze economic, social, and sustainable development data, focusing on emerging trends and best practices. This role requires conducting economic and policy analysis to assist the Resident Coordinator and UN Country Team in identifying challenges and opportunities for advancing the SDGs, with a strong emphasis on gender equality and inclusivity. The position also entails supporting the implementation of global guidelines related to economic transformation and SDG financing, contributing to policy papers and analytical notes, and monitoring economic developments that impact sustainable development at the country level. Additionally, the economist will engage with various stakeholders, including government counterparts and development partners, to foster collaboration on economic transformation initiatives.

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

• Conducting substantive economic analysis and providing evidence-based advice on sustainable development and SDG financing.
• Researching and presenting data on economic transformation, green transitions, and digital transformation.
• Supporting the implementation of corporate guidelines related to economic transformation and SDG financing.
• Preparing policy papers and analytical notes on economic trends and SDG financing.
• Monitoring national and global economic developments and their implications for sustainable development.
• Engaging with national counterparts and stakeholders to promote economic transformation and financing initiatives.
• Contributing to the UN sustainable development programming cycle by providing economic analysis for various frameworks and reports.
• Participating in knowledge management and learning activities related to economic transformation and SDG financing.

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 or related fields is advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of sustainable development theories and possess analytical skills to conduct independent research and analysis. Familiarity with various research sources and the ability to convey complex information effectively are essential. Additionally, candidates should show a commitment to gender equality and inclusivity in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Economics is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. Completion of degree or non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, macroeconomic or socioeconomic policy, or applied economics is required. Candidates should have experience in conducting economic and policy analysis, translating development trends into actionable policy options, and working with multiple stakeholders in support of sustainable development priorities. Experience in SDG financing and innovative financing approaches is desirable, as is experience in supporting partnerships and resource mobilization initiatives in development cooperation contexts.

Languages:
English and Arabic are required for this position. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in both languages, with a minimum level of UN Level II for reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English and UN Level III for Arabic. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position available for a duration of one year, with no expectation of renewal. The position is open to nationals of Egypt only, and candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. If no suitable local candidates are identified, Egyptian nationals residing elsewhere may be considered, with the candidate responsible for relocation costs. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process is subject to budgetary and intergovernmental approvals, and the UN does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.