Statistician

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Environmental-Economic Accounts Section of the Statistics Division, which is part of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs of the United Nations. The Statistics Division is dedicated to enhancing the global statistical system, compiling and disseminating global statistical information, developing standards and norms for statistical activities, and supporting countries in strengthening their national statistical systems. The organization is committed to providing accurate and reliable data to inform decision-making and policy development across various sectors. More information can be found on their official website: https://unstats.un.org.

Job Overview:
The Statistician will play a crucial role in supporting the development of methodologies, concepts, and methods in environmental-economic accounts. This position requires a strong understanding of statistical principles and practices, as well as the ability to conduct independent research and analysis. The incumbent will be responsible for organizing, designing, planning, and executing the collection, evaluation, analysis, compilation, and dissemination of statistical data related to environmental-economic accounts. This includes selecting appropriate methods for data collection, implementing checks on collected data, and ensuring effective data processing for integration into databases. The role also involves providing training and technical support on data collection programs and participating in the development or revision of standards on statistical concepts and classifications in environmental-economic accounting. The Statistician will prepare draft technical documents for various meetings and assist in drafting relevant reports, making this position integral to the advancement of environmental-economic accounting practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Statistician include: organizing and executing the collection and analysis of statistical data on environmental-economic accounts; developing and managing statistical databases; providing training and technical support on data collection programs; participating in the development of standards for statistical concepts and classifications; preparing technical documents for meetings; organizing and participating in seminars and expert meetings; assisting in providing secretariat services to the UN Committee of Experts on Environmental-Economic Accounting; guiding and training general service staff; and performing other duties as assigned. This comprehensive set of responsibilities emphasizes the importance of collaboration, technical expertise, and effective communication in the role.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of statistical principles and practices, with the ability to conduct independent research and analysis. They should demonstrate the ability to identify issues, formulate options, and make informed conclusions and recommendations. Professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to gender perspectives in the workplace are essential. The ability to analyze and interpret data to support decision-making is also required, along with a collaborative approach to teamwork and organizational goals.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in statistics, mathematics, economics, sociology, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of statistical analysis and environmental-economic accounting.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in the collection, compilation, analysis, and dissemination of statistical data or a related area is required. Experience specifically in environmental-economic accounting, environmental statistics, or national accounts is desirable. Additionally, experience in developing methodological documents and managing computerized databases, including web design, is also advantageous. This level of experience ensures that the candidate is well-equipped to handle the responsibilities of the position effectively.

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 desirable, and proficiency in another UN official language is considered an advantage. This linguistic capability is important for effective communication within the diverse environment of the United Nations.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the United Nations' commitment to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity within its staff. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply, particularly from underrepresented member states. The recruitment process adheres to strict ethical standards, and candidates with a history of violations of international human rights law or other serious offenses will not be considered. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. Staff members are expected to be flexible in their assignments and may be required to move periodically to different duty stations.