Junior Qualitative Research Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established to work in some of the world’s toughest places, aims to reach the most disadvantaged children globally. The organization operates in 190 countries and territories, focusing on saving lives, defending rights, and helping children fulfill their potential. UNICEF is committed to building a better world for everyone and emphasizes the importance of never giving up on their mission.

Job Overview:
The Junior Qualitative Research Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting the technical design and co-implementation of the qualitative research component of the Data Must Speak to Strengthen Capacity and Advance Local Evidence Use (DMS SCALE) initiative. This role involves working in a maximum of four participating countries to enhance the use of data in education policymaking. The consultant will engage with local officials and stakeholders to understand policy priorities and develop research outputs that are relevant to diverse audiences. The position requires collaboration with Ministries of Education and UNICEF offices to ensure that the research findings are effectively communicated and utilized.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for designing qualitative data collection instruments, finalizing sampling strategies, and engaging in training sessions with data collection entities. They will also contribute to the development of ethical protocols for data collection, ensure quality assurance of data submissions, and collaborate on coding frameworks for qualitative data analysis. The consultant will analyze qualitative data, draft reports, and develop dissemination outputs such as presentations and blog posts. Continuous learning and improvement of methodologies will be a key aspect of the role, requiring regular collaboration with the DMS research team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in education, social sciences, political sciences, international development, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree combined with two additional years of relevant professional experience may be accepted. A minimum of two years of relevant work experience in research, particularly in qualitative or mixed-methods research, is required. Experience in developing countries and familiarity with data collection activities are advantageous. Proficiency in using Nvivo software for qualitative data coding is preferred, along with strong communication and teamwork skills.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in a relevant field is required. A first university degree in a relevant field combined with two additional years of professional experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant professional work experience at national or international levels in research. Experience in qualitative or mixed-methods research is essential, with developing country experience considered an asset. Some familiarity with data collection activities, including training enumerators and piloting instruments, is also necessary.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, and proficiency in French is preferred. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages will be beneficial for the role, especially when coding qualitative data and engaging with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a consultancy role, and individuals engaged under this contract will not be considered staff members under the UN regulations. They will not be entitled to benefits such as leave entitlements or medical insurance coverage. The selected candidate will be responsible for their tax liabilities and ensuring that their visa and health insurance are valid for the contract duration. Additionally, candidates may be required to confirm their fully vaccinated status against COVID-19, although this does not apply to those working remotely.