Data programme specialist

The Data Programme Specialist (P4) position at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is responsible for coordinating the technical implementation of regional statistical harmonization and improvement projects across West and Central Africa. The role focuses on producing high-quality population data by developing harmonized methodological guides and providing technical assistance to National Statistical Offices for censuses and Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) systems. It also promotes data utilization for evidence-based policy dialogue and ensures strong monitoring and evaluation of projects, including tracking performance indicators and compliance with donor requirements. The incumbent leads technical coordination and harmonization by developing methodological guides for census management, digital cartography, data cleaning and geospatial population modeling, while aligning regional statistical production with SHaSA standards across ECOWAS and CEMAC zones. The role includes integrating innovative technologies such as GIS, satellite imagery and mobile data collection into census and CRVS systems. It also involves capacity strengthening by supporting census and survey activities, organizing technical trainings and workshops, coordinating GIS capacity building and maintaining consultant databases for technical assistance. The specialist contributes to evidence generation and policy advocacy by supporting demographic analysis, organizing policy dialogues and webinars, and overseeing population data portals and census tracking tools. In project management, the role includes monitoring performance, supporting resource mobilization, liaising with UN agencies and research institutions, and ensuring effective data system strengthening across countries. The position requires an advanced degree in quantitative social sciences such as demography, statistics, population studies, geography, data science or related fields, with a PhD considered an advantage. A minimum of 7 years of experience in data systems is required, including at least 4 years at international level with increasing responsibility. Strong experience in census and survey data, GIS and geospatial analysis is an advantage. Excellent communication and writing skills in English are required, while French is desirable. Pour postuler, cliquer sur le bouton Postuler.