Economic Affairs Officer

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Position Title: Economic Affairs Officer
Location: Bangkok
Country: Thailand
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) was established to promote sustainable and inclusive development and regional connectivity in the Asian and Pacific region. As a regional development arm of the United Nations Secretariat, ESCAP supports its member states through policy-oriented research, normative support, technical assistance, and capacity building to address development priorities and adapt to changing needs. The organization focuses on enhancing regional cooperation and capacity in information and communications technology (ICT) and disaster risk reduction, aiming for improved management of disaster risks and associated socioeconomic challenges.

Job Overview:
The Economic Affairs Officer position is situated within the Space Applications Section of the Information and Communications Technology and Disaster Risk Reduction Division (IDD) at ESCAP. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Chief of the Space Applications Section and the overall supervision of the Director of IDD. The role involves conducting economic or sector analysis, developing socio-economic databases, interpreting econometric models, drafting technical papers, and analyzing policy proposals. The officer will also attend various meetings to gather information and facilitate discussions, assist in organizing expert group meetings, and prepare reports and inputs for intergovernmental bodies. The position requires a strong focus on technical cooperation, including organizing training seminars and monitoring the implementation of technical cooperation projects. The officer will also engage in data collection and analysis to support decision-making processes, ensuring that the work aligns with the goals of sustainable development in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Economic Affairs Officer include:

• Conducting economic or sector analysis by developing socio-economic databases and qualitative information for digital innovation, particularly in geospatial information applications.
• Interpreting and adapting econometric models to analyze trends and policy impacts.
• Drafting inputs for technical papers and analytical studies on economic development aspects.
• Identifying and analyzing policy proposals related to assigned topics.
• Attending international, regional, and national meetings to collect 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 the ESCAP Commission and other intergovernmental bodies.
• Following intergovernmental meetings and preparing summary reports. 1
• Participating in missions on development issues and organizing training seminars for national experts. 1
• Preparing documentation for technical cooperation programs and monitoring their implementation. 1
• Performing various administrative tasks necessary for the delivery of the work unit's services. 1
• Engaging in on-the-job training activities and utilizing data visualization methods for insights and reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in economic research and analysis, policy formulation, and the application of economic principles. The role requires the ability to conduct independent research, analyze data, and develop sources for data collection. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to gender perspectives in their work. The ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and to prioritize tasks effectively is essential. Strong analytical skills and the capacity to convey complex information clearly are also required.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in economics, natural sciences, or a related field is required. A focus on geospatial information applications or disaster management is desirable. Alternatively, a relevant first-level university degree in the above fields combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, policy formulation, or geospatial information applications in development programs is required. Experience in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation through digital innovation and geospatial applications is desirable. Familiarity with digital tools such as big Earth data, artificial intelligence, or large language models is also advantageous. Experience within the United Nations Common System or international organizations, particularly in the Asia and Pacific region, is preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN official language, such as French, is considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General, and staff members are expected to move periodically to new functions in accordance with established rules. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply, and the United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance in its staff. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its recruitment processes. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.