Assistant Economic Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Transport Section of the Trade Logistics Branch, which is part of the Division on Technology and Logistics (DTL) of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and focuses on trade, investment, and development issues, aiming to promote the integration of developing countries into the global economy. The organization operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering sustainable economic growth and development.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Economic Affairs Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the Transport Section's objectives by conducting economic and sector analysis related to sustainable transport and logistics systems. The officer will be responsible for collecting and analyzing data, assisting in the design and modification of econometric models, and preparing analytical studies on transport and trade logistics. This position requires a strong understanding of economic principles and the ability to communicate complex information effectively to non-specialists. The officer will also support intergovernmental processes by preparing reports and organizing meetings, contributing to technical cooperation projects, and performing various administrative tasks to ensure the smooth operation of the work unit.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Economic Affairs Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Conducting economic and sector analysis by collecting, evaluating, and interpreting statistics and qualitative socio-economic information related to transport and logistics.
• Assisting in the design, testing, and operation of econometric models and analytical tools.
• Preparing briefing notes and inputs for speeches on sustainable transport and trade logistics.
• Drafting sector, country, or regional components of analytical studies.
• Organizing and servicing expert group meetings and seminars.
• Supporting the preparation of reports for intergovernmental bodies and summarizing meeting outcomes.
• Compiling data for technical cooperation project proposals and monitoring project implementation.
• Performing administrative tasks and assisting in website content updates and social media campaigns.
• Engaging in training activities to enhance professional skills.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of economic theories and their applications, with the ability to conduct research, analyze data, and write reports. Professionalism, effective communication skills, and technological awareness are essential. The candidate should demonstrate a commitment to gender perspectives and the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. The ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks is also important.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
Applicants with an advanced university degree are not required to have professional work experience. However, those with a first-level university degree must have at least two years of progressively responsible experience in economic research, data analysis, economic modeling, or related areas. Experience in transport, trade, and supply chains is desirable, as is experience in organizing meetings and events, particularly within international organizations such as the United Nations.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, and proficiency in both is required for this position. Desirable additional languages include Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), Russian, or Spanish, with a minimum proficiency level as outlined in the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
This is a temporary position funded by a project, with an initial duration until mid-January 2027, starting as soon as possible. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance in its workforce and encourages female candidates to apply. Candidates should be aware that there is no expectation of a fixed-term appointment following this temporary assignment. The position may involve a variety of administrative tasks and requires flexibility in adapting to the needs of the work unit.