UN Economist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, and to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. The UN Development System has undergone significant reforms to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (RCO) play a crucial role in supporting countries to meet their development priorities and align with the SDGs. The UN operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to various missions and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The UN Economist position is located within the United Nations Resident Coordination Office (RCO) in Quito, Ecuador. The role involves providing substantive economic analysis and evidence-based advice on sustainable development, economic transformation, and SDG financing. The Economist will conduct research and analysis on economic, social, and sustainable development data, focusing on emerging trends and best practices. This position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Resident Coordinator, UN Country Team, and other partners, to identify challenges and opportunities for accelerating progress towards the SDGs. The Economist will also contribute to the development and implementation of UN sustainable development programming, ensuring that economic considerations are integrated into policy responses and programming efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economist 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 policy data to support the Resident Coordinator and UN Country Team in identifying challenges and opportunities.
• Supporting the implementation of global guidelines related to economic transformation and SDG financing.
• Preparing policy papers, analytical notes, and reports on economic transformation and macroeconomic trends.
• Engaging with national counterparts and stakeholders on economic transformation and SDG financing.
• Contributing to the UN sustainable development programming cycle, including the UN Country Analysis and Cooperation Framework.
• Participating in knowledge management and learning initiatives related to economic transformation and SDG financing.
• Collecting and analyzing data to identify trends and provide insights for decision-making.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in economics, with the ability to apply sustainable development theories and concepts. They should demonstrate analytical skills, including the ability to conduct independent research and analysis. The role requires proficiency in data collection and interpretation, as well as the ability to convey complex information effectively. Candidates should also show a commitment to gender equality and inclusivity in their work, ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered in economic analysis and policy development.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Economics is required for this position. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, successful completion of 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 development economics is required. Candidates should have experience in conducting economic and policy analysis and translating development trends into actionable policy options. Experience in supporting strategic planning and policy development with government institutions or development partners is desirable. Familiarity with inclusive approaches that consider gender equality and other social dimensions is also preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is required for this position. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both languages. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term position with an initial appointment period of one year, subject to budgetary approval and availability of funds. The position is open to nationals of Ecuador only, and candidates residing outside Ecuador may be considered if no suitable local candidates are identified. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.