Economic Affairs Officer

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Economic Affairs Officer
Location: Geneva
Country: Switzerland
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Trade, Environment, Climate Change, and Sustainable Development Branch of the Division on International Trade and Commodities (DITC) at the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and aims to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. It operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering sustainable development and economic growth.

Job Overview:
The Economic Affairs Officer will play a crucial role in conducting economic or sector analysis, focusing on the intersection of trade, environment, climate change, and sustainable development. The officer will develop socio-economic databases and qualitative information for various assignments, interpret econometric models to analyze the effects of policies, and draft inputs for technical papers and analytical studies. The position requires attending international meetings, organizing expert group meetings, and preparing speeches for senior staff. The officer will also support intergovernmental processes by preparing reports and summary documents, and will participate in missions and training seminars related to development issues. This role is integral to advancing the UN's goals in sustainable economic development, particularly in developing countries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Economic Affairs Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Developing socio-economic databases and qualitative information for recurrent or ad hoc assignments.
• Interpreting and adapting econometric models to analyze trade, investment, and technology policy effects, particularly in relation to climate change and sustainable development.
• Drafting inputs for technical papers and analytical studies on trade, environment, and sustainability.
• Identifying and analyzing policy proposals related to these topics.
• Attending international, regional, and national meetings to gather information and engage with colleagues.
• Assisting in organizing expert group meetings and seminars on development issues.
• Preparing speeches and presentations for senior staff.
• Contributing to reports for intergovernmental bodies and summarizing meetings.
• Participating in missions and organizing training seminars for national experts. 1
• Monitoring and assessing the implementation of technical cooperation programs and projects. 1
• Performing various administrative tasks as required to support the work unit's services.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in economics or a related field, with the ability to apply economic theories and concepts to sustainable development. They should demonstrate knowledge of the interlinkages between trade, investment, and technology policies and their effects on climate change. The ability to conduct independent research and validate data from various sources is essential. Candidates should also exhibit professionalism, effective communication skills, teamwork, and a client-oriented approach.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. An advanced degree in trade, international development, environment, renewable energies, climate change, or sustainable development is considered an asset.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, policy formulation, or related areas is required. Additionally, two years of experience specifically in trade and environment, climate change, and sustainable development is desirable, indicating a need for specialized knowledge in these fields.

Languages:
Fluency in English (both oral and written) is required, along with knowledge of French. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered desirable, reflecting the UN's commitment to multilingualism and effective communication across diverse cultures.

Additional Notes:
This is a temporary position available for a period of three months, starting as soon as possible. Extensions may be possible based on the continuation of need, availability of the post, and satisfactory performance. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance 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 various administrative tasks and requires adherence to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity.