Data Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations. The UN Development System, which includes the UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO), was reformed in 2019 to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN RCOs support countries in their development priorities and facilitate collaboration among various UN entities and stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The Data Specialist position is crucial for the UN Resident Coordinator Office in Bangkok, Thailand. The role involves interacting with various stakeholders, including data engineers, data scientists, and external partners, to develop and implement databases, data collection systems, and data analytics that enhance statistical efficiency and quality. The Data Specialist will be responsible for analyzing trends, developing reports and dashboards, and ensuring effective communication of data insights to management. This position requires a strong understanding of data analytics best practices and the ability to lead training sessions for staff on data-related topics. The incumbent will also supervise colleagues in data-centric roles and ensure that projects align with organizational objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Data Specialist will perform a wide range of duties, including:

• Developing and implementing databases and data collection systems.
• Analyzing and interpreting data trends using statistical methods.
• Creating reports and dashboards to summarize findings.
• Documenting methodologies and establishing standards for data practices.
• Leading the production of data products such as reports and newsletters.
• Collaborating with other organizational units to express data needs.
• Keeping abreast of emerging trends in data analytics.
• Conducting training sessions for staff on data analytics.
• Supporting project execution through robust data analysis. 1
• Supervising and guiding colleagues in data roles. 1
• Ensuring effective resource use and alignment with objectives. 1
• Preparing materials for audits through data preparation and compliance tracking.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong foundation in data manipulation and analysis, including knowledge of statistical methods and database management. Skills in project management and the data life cycle, including data collection, analysis, and reporting, are essential. Proficiency in relational databases (SQL) and programming languages such as Python and R is desirable. Experience in developing training programs and curricula for diverse audiences is also required. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to analyze and interpret data effectively to support decision-making.

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 a related area is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) 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 data manipulation and analysis is required. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of foundational concepts in data analysis, including data structures and statistical methods. Experience in database management and project management is essential, along with familiarity with the data life cycle, including data collection, wrangling, analysis, and reporting.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English and Thai is required for this position. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is an advantage. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas (reading, writing, speaking, understanding), while knowledge is rated as 'confident' in two of the four areas.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term limited position, initially for one year, with the possibility of extension subject to funding availability. The position is open to nationals of Thailand only, and candidates residing outside Thailand may be considered if no suitable local candidates are found. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce.