Vacancy Alert: Work Remotely as a Quantitative and Qualitative Research Consultant at UNICEF

Job Overview

• Job No: 580413
• Contract Type: Consultant
• Contract Level: Consultancy
• Location: Remote / Work from Home
• Categories: Social Policy, Research, Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation

UNICEF Innocenti is dedicated to addressing the most pressing questions facing children today and in the future. By providing robust evidence and insights, UNICEF Innocenti empowers thought leaders and decision-makers to create a better, safer world for children. The office embodies a commitment to placing the voices of children and families at the forefront of research, utilizing both primary and secondary data to inform policies and practices.

The Research and Foresight team at UNICEF Innocenti employs foresight methodologies to set critical agendas for children, including horizon scanning, trends analysis, and scenario development. This work culminates in the production of high-level reports, policy papers, and a platform for advocacy and debate, influencing practices at national and global levels.

About the Social & Economic Policy Unit

The Social & Economic Policy (SEP) unit at UNICEF Innocenti conducts in-depth research focusing on key themes such as social protection, child poverty, and public finance. In order to enhance its research capabilities, the SEP unit is creating a Roster of Consultants made up of pre-qualified individuals who can quickly be contracted for a variety of research services.

Scope of Consultancy

Consultants within this roster will be engaged to provide a range of services, including but not limited to:

• Quantitative and qualitative data collection activities
• Data analysis (both quantitative and qualitative methodologies)
• Comprehensive literature reviews
• Writing research outputs such as reports, briefs, or academic articles

Desired Skill Sets

The SEP unit is particularly interested in candidates with expertise in one or more of the following skillsets:

1. Quantitative Skillset: Experience in impact evaluations of cash transfers or other social protection interventions in low- and middle-income countries.
2. Qualitative Skillset: Expertise in impact and process evaluations of cash transfer programs or other social development initiatives.
3. Quantitative Skillset on Public Finance: Proficiency in budget analysis, macro-econometrics, and simulations.
4. Qualitative Skillset: Competence in political economy analysis.
5. Data Science: Skills in machine learning and big data analytics.

Candidates are encouraged to review specific requirements for these skillsets detailed in the document Skillsets EXT.pdf. Applicants may apply for more than one skillset if they meet the qualifications.

Language Proficiency

Consultants should be fully proficient in English, or in another relevant language (French, Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic) combined with a working knowledge of English, depending on the assignment requirements.

Working Environment

All consultants will work under the direct supervision of a designated staff member within the SEP unit. Collaboration with both internal research teams and external stakeholders is integral, although all work will be conducted remotely, without the expectation of being based at the Innocenti office.

Evaluation and Selection Process

The Roster for Consultants will remain open for applications until the end of 2025. The evaluation of applicants will be conducted initially one month from the opening announcement, followed by quarterly reviews.

The selection process will involve:

• Screening candidates based on qualifications and competencies specific to the skillsets they applied for.
• Evaluation of individual profiles through a desk review process to ensure they meet minimum requirements for relevant Tier levels and achieve high scores based on specified criteria.

Evaluation Criteria

Candidates will be assessed according to the following technical criteria:

• Educational Background: Level and relevance of education to the selected skillset (max. 20 points).
• Professional Experience: Demonstrated professional research experience in the selected skillset (max. 40 points).
• Research Outputs: Record of drafting research outputs and high-quality products relevant to the Tier level (max. 25 points).
• Relevant Experience: Experience working with UNICEF, other international organizations, or national partners (max. 15 points).

Candidates may also be required to undertake a technical test as part of the selection process. Successful candidates will be included in the roster for three years, eligible for assignments from March 2025 to March 2028.

While inclusion in the Roster of Consultants does not guarantee a contract with UNICEF Innocenti, it allows for prioritized consideration for forthcoming research assignments. When needs arise, UNICEF Innocenti will approach selected roster candidates with a specific Terms of Reference for the assignment and negotiate daily rates.

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications online, ensuring the following documents are included:

1. Online Profile: Complete your profile with the contact information of three references.
2. CV: Submit a CV (photographs are not required), including a list of relevant publications with links.
3. Covering Letter: This should be no more than two pages and must clearly state:

• The skillset(s) you wish to be considered for and the corresponding Tier level.
• Your earliest date and periods of availability for work in 2025.
• Your all-inclusive daily rate.

1. Evaluation Reports: Attach at least two evaluation reports from previous consulting assignments, if available.

Important Note: Applications missing any required elements will not be considered.

Conclusion

Join UNICEF Innocenti in its mission to provide impactful research that influences social and economic policies for children around the world. This is an opportunity to leverage your skills as a consultant in a forward-thinking environment that prioritizes evidence-based solutions. Don’t miss your chance to contribute to meaningful change—apply now!

Visit the UNICEF Careers age

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