Statistician

United Nations
New York - United States
S: Competitive

Org. Setting and Reporting
The position is located in the Statistical Planning and Development Section (SPDS), Statistics Division, Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA). The Statistician reports to the Chief of Section. The Statistics Division is committed to the advancement of the global statistical system. The Division compiles and disseminates global statistical information, develop standards and norms for statistical activities, and support countries' efforts to strengthen their national statistical systems. Further information is available on the following website: http://www.unstats.un.org.

Responsibilities
Within delegated authority, the Statistician will be responsible for the following duties:

•Initiates and co-ordinates the development of appropriate methods for obtaining relevant data related to SDG indicators.
•Ensure the quality of collected data for accuracy, consistency and comparability particularly in relation to the compilation of international data series and the use and integration of different data sources.
•Plans and conducts analytical programmes of work in relevant areas for the implementation of the global SDG indicator framework. This may include: identifying projects, conducting analysis and participating in technical advisory activities for national capacity building.
•Plans and conducts analytical programmes of work on data disaggregation in the context of the implementation of the SDG indicators.
•Supervises and contributes to the development of relevant databases, web publishing tools and other software for collection, storage and distribution of statistical data.
•Undertakes methodological research with regard to standards on concepts, definitions and classifications to assist countries and other constituents in strengthening their statistical development.
•Provides guidance and advice to other departments, field experts, etc., in the planning, operation and evaluation of statistical programmes and projects.
•Plans and co-ordinates seminars, workshops, expert meetings, etc.
•Plans, organizes, manages and supervises the work of the section assigned.
•Performs other duties as assigned.

Competencies
•Professionalism: Knowledge of statistical programmes to analyze and evaluate complex data. Ability to formulate new strategies and technical approaches with respect to statistical development. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

•Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

•Planning & Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.

Education
Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent degree) in statistics, mathematics, economics, sociology or related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in the collection, compilation, analysis and dissemination of statistical data or related area is required. Experience in managing development indicators and data is desirable.

Languages
English and French are the official working languages of the UN Secretariat. For this post, fluency in English is required. Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.

Job summary