Consultant for Data Engineering Skills Development

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Statistics Division, which is part of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA). The UN Statistics Division is dedicated to enhancing the global statistical system and supporting countries in their efforts to produce reliable and timely statistics. The organization has been operational for several decades and employs a diverse workforce across various countries, focusing on capacity development in statistical systems worldwide. Its mission includes improving the use of innovative and administrative data for statistical purposes, particularly in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in strengthening the capacity of national statistical systems to utilize innovative and administrative data for statistical purposes. This position is vital for addressing the gaps in data availability for policy and decision-makers, enabling them to monitor progress and implement the 2030 Agenda effectively. The consultant will work on developing a detailed plan of activities, which will include key outputs and timelines based on consultations with national statistical offices and their IT teams. The consultant will be responsible for delivering progress reports and a final report that outlines the activities supported and the results achieved. The work will primarily be conducted remotely, with potential travel for technical assistance missions as needed. The consultant will also be expected to facilitate communications through remote web conferences and ensure timely delivery of all outputs while maintaining high-quality standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include:

• Developing a detailed plan of activities that specifies key outputs and timelines based on consultations with national statistical offices.
• Conducting online consultations and coordination meetings to gather information on existing IT system implementations.
• Preparing progress reports at specified intervals (August, September, October, November, and December 2025) that document the activities supported and provide links or attachments of concrete results.
• Compiling a final report by December 31, 2025, summarizing all activities and outputs.
• Supporting the development of data engineering skills within national statistical offices by providing practical guides and reference materials.
• Engaging with various stakeholders to facilitate the integration and processing of data and metadata from administrative and innovative sources.
• Contributing to the UN's capacity development efforts aimed at modernizing data and IT architecture in statistical systems.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in computer science, data science, data engineering, or a related field. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree combined with seven (7) years of relevant experience may also be considered. Additionally, a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in enterprise data management systems, data warehousing infrastructure, big data technologies, GIS analytics, and/or cloud-based data storage and access solutions is essential. Experience working with National Statistical Offices, particularly in developing country contexts, is highly desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate experience in planning and implementing IT architecture solutions for complex statistical data production systems or data science projects, as well as experience in agile project management and facilitating IT training and workshops.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as computer science, data science, data engineering, or related disciplines. Alternatively, a bachelor’s degree with extensive relevant experience may be accepted. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of data management and IT architecture necessary for the role.

Experience:
The consultant should have a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in relevant fields, including enterprise data management systems and big data technologies. Experience in working with National Statistical Offices, especially in developing countries, is preferred. The candidate should also have demonstrated experience in planning and implementing IT architecture solutions for statistical data production systems, as well as experience in agile project management and stakeholder coordination.

Languages:
Full command of spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in French is desirable, and knowledge of other UN languages is considered an advantage. This linguistic capability is essential for effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last from July 1, 2025, to December 31, 202

• The consultant will primarily work remotely, with potential travel for technical assistance missions based on specific country needs and funding availability. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training.