Data Science Analyst, P-2, Lilongwe, Malawi

The Data Science Analyst (DSA) is a key member of the Innovation Hub responsible for the implementation of the “Big Data & Real-Time Information” pillar of the innovation strategy. S/he plays a vital role in data collection, research and analysis, in addition to identification and application of new and/or existing data science methodologies. The DSA supports the Innovation Hub Unit and respective UNICEF sectors by strengthening data generation and use that is necessary for planning and programmatic decisions.

If you are a committed, creative professional and are passionate about making a lasting difference for children, the world's leading children's rights organization would like to hear from you.

1)  Organizational Context

The fundamental mission of UNICEF is to promote the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything the organization does — in programs, in advocacy and in operations. The equity strategy, emphasizing the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families, translates this commitment to children’s rights into action. For UNICEF, equity means that all children have an opportunity to survive, develop and reach their full potential, without discrimination, bias or favouritism. To the degree that any child has an unequal chance in life — in its social, political, economic, civic and cultural dimensions — her or his rights are violated. There is growing evidence that investing in the health, education and protection of a society’s most disadvantaged citizens — addressing inequity — not only will give all children the opportunity to fulfil their potential but also will lead to sustained growth and stability of countries. This is why the focus on equity is so vital. It accelerates progress towards realizing the human rights of all children, which is the universal mandate of UNICEF, as outlined by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, while also supporting the equitable development of nations.

However, despite decades of strong work in these sectoral areas, inequity remains.  While progress is being made, something different is required to accelerate progress towards not just long term and sustainable development improvements, but significant impacts for the most vulnerable and excluded children who may still be left behind with traditional development interventions. 

2)  Job Organizational Context

The Data Science Analyst (DSA) is a key member of the Innovation Hub responsible for the implementation of the “Big Data & Real-Time Information” pillar of the innovation strategy. S/he plays a vital role in data collection, research and analysis, in addition to identification and application of new and/or existing data science methodologies. The knowledge, information and insights obtained from data-driven science are important for the Country Office team and stakeholders to make informed (evidence-based) strategic decisions. The DSA therefore supports the Innovation Hub Unit and respective UNICEF sectors by strengthening data generation and use that is necessary for planning and programmatic decisions.

The DSA is able to analyse and understand spatial and non-spatial data, and is familiar with working with both traditional and non-traditional sources of data. S/he is organized and is able to implement and manage big data projects from start to finish. The DSA also needs to be able to liaise with different internal and external stakeholders across sectors, and act as a ‘bridge’ between Country Office decision makers, technical and non-technical staff. She can present technical information and findings in a way that is easily understood by the sector/cluster members and the management, such as data visualization, mapping, narrative writing, and in-person communication.

3)  Purpose of the position

Under the direct supervision of the Innovations Specialist:

• Ensure that the Big Data and Real-Time Information pillar of the UNICEF innovation strategy is conceptualized and implemented. Facilitate the use of this data for the provision of reliable and close to real-time information on (i) the situation of children's and women's rights; and (ii) the performance of UNICEF-supported programmes including their relevance, efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability, and in emergency contexts, their coverage, coordination and coherence.
• Manage the Big Data and Geo-Data hub and its linkages with the global Big Data analysis hub (“Magic Box”). Organise the data in such a way that it can be accessed by internal and external users according to a clear protocol. Ensure it’s interoperability with other data hubs.
• Ensure that all geo-data initiatives in the office are integrated and synchronized.
• Extract from the data visual information products such as infographics, maps and thematic profiles to support planning, monitoring, communication, knowledge management and decision making processes.
• The DSA is also responsible for identifying, assessing, monitoring and mapping information sources through the development of internal and external knowledge networks and participate in inter-agency information management forums.
• She/he will support programme and cross-cutting sections in mapping visualization of the data contained in the Hub and support relevant government partners in tool establishment, capacity development in the area of special data.

4)  Key Expected Results

The incumbent is expected to promote data science and real-time information management systems aimed at removing programme-related bottlenecks for advancing children’s rights through innovative solutions, therefore sharpening the approach of all programme results and improving the targeting and monitoring of outcomes and outputs. He/she will be responsible for establishing systems and influencing the work of all sections to improve the efficiency and efficacy of the UNICEF supported programme, including in the priority areas and to help in using new and Big Data for UNICEF’s and partner’s work.

5)  Key Accountabilities and Duties & Tasks

• (Spacial) Data Collection, compilation and management

Establish, structure and maintain a geo and Big data hub for the Malawi Country Offices that consolidates all geospatial data, sectoral data and manages it in such a way that it allows for differentiated use and access within and outside UNICEF. Establish the linkate of the data hub with various Big Data initiatives such as the “Magic Box” in UNICEF HQ.

Map existing data sources, enhance existing data management system and create new ones when required. Work closely with programme sections to maintain, update and enhance UNICEF internal performance monitoring database.

• Data visualization and analysis

Facilitate the presentation and analysis of various data on geo-spatial platforms. Develop visual information products (Infographics, factsheets, thematic profiles etc.) to support programme planning, monitoring and decision making.

Work closely with programme and cross-cutting sections to develop maps (ArcGIS, QGIS), update and enhance common geodatabases and data-sets. Facilitate the analysis of data within and outside the office and collaborate closely with regional and global data initiatives, including Big Dat and geo-spatial data.

• Support Planning and monitoring

Support the planning and monitoring of programmatic and advocacy activities by developing standard products that allow extraction of corresponding information in a user friendly way. Work closely with internal and external initiatives that enhance performance based planning and management such as e-tools, bottle neck analysis, value for money initiatives, etc. Stay up-to-date with respect to predictive use of (Big) data for programming initiatives, such as Resilience, etc. Ensure that the Bid Data and Geospatial Hub remains up to date and relevant. Support innovative data collection and analysis methods.

• Innovation in data

Identify new data science methodologies or adapt existing methodologies to organisational priorities. Develop operational prototypes, and document methodologies and lessons learned.

• Capacity Development

Enhance the capacity development of UNICEF and partners on the generation, management and use of data with a particular focus on Big Data and Real-Time Information including geo-spatial data.

6)  Qualifications of Successful Candidate

Education: 

Bachelor' degree in computer science, geospatial science, geographic information systems, statistics, or a combination of management, social science, technology and information disciplines. Master's degree in the relevant field will be an added advantage.

Experience: 

• At least two years of professional experience in data analysis, information management, programme planning & monitoring or knowledge management in the development sector.
• Experience in managing large-scale and complex data systems that include geo-spatial data
• Demonstrated outstanding analytical and quantitative skills, and ability to conduct independent research
• Experience using analytical/mapping packages such as SPSS, ArcView, etc. necessary.
• Experience with Innovative uses of data technology for development, particularly in the areas of mobile based data collection; Big Data; Training & capacity building experience;  are highly desirable.  
• Strong writing and communication skills and the aptitude to handle competing messages and priorities with multiple audiences.
• Familiarity with emerging methods and research in area of computational social science, big data analytics and geographic information systems
• Background experience with academia and/or data-based research or application in for profit or not for profit sectors highly desirable.

• International and Developing country work experience

Language Requirements:

Fluency in English and another UN language.

7)  Competencies of Successful Candidate

Core Values

• Commitment
• Diversity and inclusion
• Integrity

Core competencies

• Communication  [ II ]
• Working with People   [ II ]
• Drive for Result   [ II ]

Functional Competencies:

• Relating and networking [I]
• Applying technical expertise [I]
• Planning and organizing [II]
• Formulating strategies and concepts [I]

• Persuading & Influencing (I)
• Learning & Researching (II)

To view our competency framework, please click here. 

UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages qualified female and male candidates from all national, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply to become a part of our organisation.