Data Science Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is dedicated to delivering innovative ideas and actions aimed at empowering and transforming Africa. Established to support the continent's development, ECA operates under the guiding principles of the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 206

• The organization focuses on five strategic directions: enhancing its role as a premier knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic and structural policy options, designing innovative financing models, addressing regional challenges, and advocating for Africa's position in global governance. ECA employs a diverse workforce and operates across multiple countries in Africa, aiming to provide solutions tailored to the continent's unique challenges.

Job Overview:
The Data Science Assistant position is situated within the Regional Integration and Trade Division (RITD) of the ECA. The role is crucial in supporting the division's objectives by leveraging data science methodologies to inform policy and decision-making processes. The Data Science Assistant will work under the guidance of the Director of RITD and report directly to the Chief of the Market Institutions Section. The position involves contributing to the identification and acquisition of data sources, maintaining relationships with clients, and developing data science products that utilize advanced analytical methods such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. The assistant will also be responsible for creating socio-economic databases, analyzing globalization trends, and providing training to clients on data science tools and processes. This role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to delivering high-quality results that align with the organization's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Data Science Assistant will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Preparing responses to requests for data exploration and acquisition, ensuring the suitability of data sources for policy shaping.
• Collaborating with team members to address data requests and bridging gaps in data availability.
• Supporting senior staff in maintaining client relationships to enhance the use of data science methods in programmatic areas.
• Assisting in the design and development of data science products, applying analytical methods such as AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics.
• Developing and maintaining socio-economic databases and qualitative information for specific assignments.
• Analyzing globalization trends with a focus on Africa's integration into the global economy.
• Providing client training and developing tools to enhance client capabilities.
• Customizing visualization and presentation products to effectively communicate analysis findings.
• Preparing data sets upon request and maintaining/updating web pages. 1
• Performing additional duties as assigned by supervisors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional studies or training in fields such as computer science, software engineering, data science, statistics, applied mathematics, or information systems being desirable. A strong understanding of data science tools, statistical programming languages, and methods for handling large datasets is essential. The ability to interpret and analyze diverse data types, identify discrepancies, and utilize visualization techniques is also required. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, client orientation, and technological awareness in their work.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma or equivalent. However, candidates with further studies or training in relevant fields such as computer science, data science, statistics, or applied mathematics will be viewed favorably. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of data analytics and its application in social and economic development contexts.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of experience in data analytics related to social and economic development data is required. For candidates with a first-level university degree or higher, the minimum experience requirement is reduced to five years. Experience with data visualization tools is considered desirable, and candidates should have at least one year of experience in data analytics or a related area to be competitive for this position.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French, another official UN language, is advantageous and may enhance a candidate's profile. Proficiency in additional languages can be beneficial in a multicultural work environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that candidates must be residents of the country or within commuting distance of the office. Local recruits are not eligible for international recruitment benefits. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce and adheres to strict standards of integrity and professionalism in its hiring processes. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request. The application process is conducted online, and candidates are advised to submit their applications promptly to ensure consideration.