Economist at the ILO Research Department

International Labour Office (ILO)
Geneva - Switzerland
S: Competitive

The position is located in the Research Department of the ILO (RESEARCH), which conducts research on labour market and social issues with a view to identifying policy options that can promote a more sustainable and fair globalization process and contributing to policy formulation for ILO constituents.

Today, there is a growing demand for understanding better what works in terms of labour market policies. There is need for in-depth research of the effectiveness of these policies and the characteristics that are needed for them to improve labour market and social outcomes.

The position will contribute to the analysis of labour market policies at a thematic, regional and country specific level. This also includes developing a compendium of policies and carrying out macro- and micro-econometric evaluations that underpin the assessment of labour market and social impacts of different labour market policies.

The position will report to the Team Leader of the Labour Market Trends and Policy Evaluation Unit.

Description of Duties

Specific duties
1. Contribute to the capacity of the Team to carry out impact evaluations of the effects of labour market policies in terms of employment and social outcomes. Notably how the design of these labour market and social policies contribute to improving labour market outcomes, conditions of work and the well-being of populations around the world.

2. Carry out econometric and statistical analysis related to the assessment of labour market and social policies and their impact on labour market outcomes and dynamics. This includes building and working with databases and carrying out macro- and micro-econometric analysis.

3. Monitor policy developments and the dynamics of labour market policies at the country and regional levels and analyse their impact on labour market outcomes.

4. Provide input into Research Briefs that present technical findings in a non-technical manner, for both internal audiences and international fora such as the ILO Governing Body, ILO regional meetings and the G20.

5. Collaborate and exchange information with Regional and Country Offices of the ILO, international think tanks and organizations, research centres and constituents.

6. Provide inputs to other research projects and flagship reports of the Research Department.

7. Support other research work as needed.

These specific duties are aligned with the relevant ILO generic job description, which includes the following generic duties:

1. Compile and maintain data bases on selected subjects.

2. Analyse data for programme development and research studies.

3. Draft components of regional, country or related sectoral analyses for reports and publications.

4. Assist in technical backstopping, project implementation and monitoring, as junior desk officer.

5. Participate in technical missions for research and fact finding.

6. Assist in organising workshops and seminars.

Required Qualifications

Education
First level university degree in the field of economics. Specialization in labour-related or development economics would be considered an asset.

Experience
Two to three years of experience in undertaking research in labour market and social issues. Demonstrated experience in undertaking impact evaluations. Demonstrated experience in drafting high-quality research papers and reports.

Languages
Excellent command of English. Basic knowledge of French or Spanish would be an asset.

Competencies

In addition to the ILO core competencies, this position requires:

Technical competencies - Ability to carry out assignments in accordance with instructions and guidelines; ability to use analytical tools and qualitative and quantitative techniques; demonstrated knowledge of statistical and econometric techniques including ability to use related software. Ability to conceptualise, plan, coordinate and conduct straightforward research work; ability to draft discussion papers, reports; good computer skills.

Behavioural competencies - Excellent trouble-shooting and problem solving skills; comfort working both independently and within a team-based environment; discipline in following strict deadlines; keen attention to detail and outcome quality; ability to organize and balance multiple areas of work; ability to work in a multicultural environment and gender-sensitive behaviour and attitudes are also required.

Additional Information:
Evaluation (which may include one or several written tests and a pre-interview competency-based assessment centre) and the interviews will tentatively take place in September or October 2016. Candidates are requested to ensure their availability should they be short listed for further consideration.

This is an assignment of a specialist and purely temporary nature not expected to lead to a career in the ILO. The selection process is not subject to the rules and procedures defined in Annex I of the ILO Staff Regulations. The incumbent will be recruited on a one-year fixed-term contract under Article 4.2 ( e ).

The following are eligible to apply:

- Internal candidates in accordance with paragraphs 31 and 32 of Annex I of the Staff Regulations. The Office will facilitate the temporary re-assignment of a selected internal candidate to this position.

- Other staff members with at least five years of continuous service with the Office are also eligible.

- External candidates.

The ILO values diversity among its staff. We welcome applicants from qualified women and men, including those with disabilities.

Applications from qualified candidates from non- or under-represented member States, or from those member States which staffing forecasts indicate will become non- or under-represented in the near future, would be particularly welcome. A list of these countries is in Appendix I.

Salary levels are determined according to the criteria established by the International Civil Service Commission. The ILO is international public sector employer and salary and other employment conditions are not negotiable. Other allowances and benefits apply subject to specific terms of appointment.

If you are unable to complete our online application form due to a disability, please send an email to erecruit@ilo.org.

Job summary