Economic Affairs Officer (Temporary)

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Position Title: Economic Affairs Officer (Temporary)
Location: Geneve
Country: Switzerland
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Energy Systems (ES) Section of the Sustainable Energy Division (SED) of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). The UNECE was established to promote pan-European economic integration and sustainable development. It operates in various countries across Europe and has a mission to foster cooperation among its member states in areas such as economic development, environmental protection, and social inclusion. The organization is committed to addressing the challenges of sustainable energy and aims to facilitate the transition to cleaner energy systems. The UNECE employs a diverse workforce and engages in numerous projects and initiatives to support its mission.

Job Overview:
The Economic Affairs Officer will be responsible for conducting economic or sector analysis related to sustainable energy, particularly focusing on renewable energy and cleaner electricity systems. The incumbent will draft technical papers and analytical studies, develop qualitative information for various assignments, and analyze policy proposals. The role involves attending international and regional meetings to gather information and engage with colleagues from other institutions. The officer will also assist in organizing expert group meetings and seminars on development issues, prepare speeches and presentations for senior staff, and monitor the implementation of technical cooperation programs, particularly in Central Asia. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying problems and recommending solutions, as well as organizing training seminars for national experts and preparing documentation for technical cooperation projects.

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

• Drafting specified inputs for technical papers and analytical studies on sustainable energy projects and operations.
• Developing qualitative information for recurrent or ad hoc assignments.
• Identifying and analyzing policy proposals related to assigned topics.
• Attending international, regional, and national meetings to collect information and engage in discussions.
• Assisting in the organization and servicing of expert group meetings and seminars.
• Preparing speeches and other inputs for presentations by senior staff.
• Monitoring and assessing the implementation of technical cooperation programs and projects.
• Identifying problems and recommending corrective actions.
• Liaising with relevant parties and tracking follow-up actions. 1
• Participating in missions on development issues as part of a team. 1
• Organizing training seminars for national experts. 1
• Preparing documentation for technical cooperation programs and projects. 1
• Contributing to the preparation of materials for the approval of regional, country, or sector technical cooperation projects. 1
• Performing other related duties as required, including administrative tasks necessary for the final delivery of the work unit’s service. 1
• Undertaking on-the-job and other training activities, both internally and externally.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Candidates must demonstrate a strong understanding of economic theories and concepts, particularly in the context of sustainable development. The ability to conduct independent research and analyze economic data is essential, along with the capacity to develop sources for data collection. Professionalism, communication skills, and the ability to plan and organize effectively are critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in economic principles and their application in development contexts.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in economic research and analysis, policy formulation, and the application of economic principles in development programs is required. Experience in project or program management is also necessary. Desirable qualifications include at least one year of experience working within the United Nations Common System or a similar international organization, which would provide familiarity with the UN's operational framework and objectives.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also required, while knowledge of Russian is considered desirable. Proficiency in these languages will facilitate effective communication and collaboration within the diverse environment of the UN.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporary and will be available at 80% employment starting from 16 April 2025 for an initial period of 6 months, with the possibility of extension. The appointment is subject to the availability of funds and budgetary approval. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process and is committed to maintaining the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its hiring practices.