Statistical Analysis and Knowledge Product Development Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is a regional commission of the United Nations established to support economic and social development in its 22 Arab member states. ESCWA aims to promote inclusive and sustainable development through policy dialogue, knowledge exchange, and consensus-building. The organization focuses on various areas including governance, conflict prevention, and economic growth, and operates across multiple countries in the Arab region. ESCWA is committed to enhancing the capacity of member states to implement effective policies and programs that address regional challenges and promote equitable growth.

Job Overview:
The Statistical Analysis and Knowledge Product Development Consultant will play a crucial role in strengthening data management and providing statistical analyses and visualizations to support project reports and policy recommendations. The consultant will work closely with the Project Coordinator to implement and update the Oman Governorate Competitiveness Index (OGCI) and other related analytical assignments. This position requires specialized technical expertise in statistical analysis, data modeling, and policy research to enhance ESCWA's regional data frameworks and promote evidence-based decision-making. The consultant will be responsible for developing robust analytical products, validated datasets, and technical reports that align with the objectives of the OGCI and broader evidence-based policymaking initiatives. The role also involves fostering data-driven decision-making to support local authorities in developing tailored strategies that leverage the unique potential of each governorate in Oman.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Consultant will undertake a variety of duties under the overall supervision of the Project Coordinator. Key responsibilities include validating, cleaning, harmonizing, and organizing data; maintaining indicator databases; conducting statistical analysis and modeling to identify trends and policy implications; preparing dashboards and visualizations; drafting technical reports and policy briefs; and developing evidence-based policy recommendations. Additionally, the consultant will provide technical inputs to expert meetings, consultations, and workshops, prepare related materials and outcome summaries, and ensure data coherence and analytical quality in accordance with ESCWA's statistical and publishing standards. The consultant will also be expected to support technical consultations and stakeholder meetings, ensuring alignment with UN statistical standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in Economics, Statistics, Data Science, Development Studies, or a related field. A minimum of one year of professional work experience in these areas is required. Advanced proficiency in statistical software such as STATA, R, Python, or advanced SPSS/Excel is essential, along with experience in data visualization tools like Power BI or Tableau. Exposure to indices or governance monitoring tools is desirable, as is familiarity with data analysis, statistics, or governance-related research.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as Economics, Statistics, Data Science, or Development Studies. Candidates must submit a copy of their educational degree as part of the application process, and incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of one year of professional work experience in fields related to Economics, Statistics, Data Science, or Development Studies. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in statistical analysis, data modeling, and policy research, as well as familiarity with governance-related research and indices.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is required for this position, as these are the working languages of ESCWA. Knowledge of French is considered desirable. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas (speak, read, write, and understand), while knowledge of a language is rated as 'confident' in two of the four areas.

Additional Notes:
This position is recruited on a local basis, meaning that candidates must have the legal right to live and work in Lebanon. The recruitment process does not involve any fees at any stage, and the United Nations does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.