Associate Data Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was restructured on January 1, 2019, under the leadership of the UN Secretary-General to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO) play a crucial role in this reform, supporting countries in their development priorities. The Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was transformed into a stand-alone office within the UN Secretariat, overseeing the resident coordinator system. The DCO's recalibration in 2026 aimed to optimize support for the 2030 Agenda, focusing on data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven culture. The UN RCO in Riyadh is part of this global initiative, working towards sustainable development and effective coordination among UN agencies.

Job Overview:
The Associate Data Specialist is a pivotal role within the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office (UN RCO), responsible for managing, coordinating, and analyzing data related to the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) results. This position involves systematic data collection, validation, processing, and maintenance within the Information Management System (IMS) and UN INFO. The specialist will coordinate data requirements with UNCT focal points, ensuring the accuracy and completeness of submissions. The role also includes supporting the planning and monitoring of normative scorecards, preparing the UN Annual Results Report, and collaborating with various stakeholders to enhance data quality and reporting coherence. The Associate Data Specialist is expected to contribute to the development of analytical content and facilitate timely information exchange among UN agencies and government counterparts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Data Specialist will implement databases and data collection systems to optimize statistical efficiency and quality. Responsibilities include analyzing trends using statistical methods, improving data analytics processes, and maintaining organized databases. The specialist will develop reports and dashboards to summarize findings, track progress on data initiatives, and create data visualization outputs. Additionally, the role involves assisting with data collection, preparing stakeholder communications, and contributing to capacity-building activities through training on data analytics. The Associate Data Specialist will also support administrative tasks related to data verification and routine reporting, ensuring all activities align with organizational goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong project management skills, strategic and analytical thinking abilities, and resource management capabilities. The role requires proficiency in quality assurance of data analysis outputs and the ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions. A commitment to sustainable development principles and the ability to communicate complex information effectively are essential. The candidate should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and planning and organizing skills, ensuring that multiple reporting processes are completed accurately and on time.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in fields such as Computer Science, Data Science, Analytics, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Information Management, or related areas is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in research, data analysis, information management, or project/programme management in development cooperation is required. Candidates should have experience coordinating data processes involving multiple stakeholders, maintaining organized records, and working with information-management platforms. Desirable experience includes contributing to annual results reporting and skills in project management and workflow management.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is required for this position, with English and French being the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both English and Arabic at UN Level II.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position for a duration of one year, with no expectation of renewal. The position is open to nationals of Saudi Arabia only, and candidates residing elsewhere may be considered at their own expense for relocation. The United Nations is committed to gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Staff members are expected to adhere to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various functions as needed. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.