The United Nations(UN) is inviting applications for a Consultant – Capacity Development under the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA). This opportunity is part of the global Data for Now Initiative, which focuses on strengthening national statistical systems and improving data availability for sustainable development.
This consultancy role is linked to the United Nations Statistics Division and plays a key role in advancing global progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The position is primarily home-based, with opportunities for international collaboration and travel.
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Overview of the Consultancy
- Organization: United Nations
- Department: Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA)
- Role: Consultant – Capacity Development
- Programme: Data for Now Initiative
- Duty Station: New York (home-based arrangement)
- Contract Duration: 15 May 2026 – 15 November 2026
- Application Deadline: 26 April 2026
About the Data for Now Initiative
The Data for Now Initiative is a global partnership aimed at improving the availability, quality, and timeliness of development data. It supports countries in strengthening their national statistical systems and enhancing their ability to monitor progress toward the SDGs.
This initiative is implemented in collaboration with leading global organizations, including:
- World Bank
- United Nations Development Programme
- Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data
- Sustainable Development Solutions Network
The program focuses on enabling countries to produce high-quality, disaggregated data for evidence-based policymaking.
Role and Responsibilities
The selected consultant will play a central role in coordinating and implementing activities under the Data for Now Initiative.
Project Planning and Coordination
- Develop detailed workplans with timelines and deliverables
- Coordinate implementation across participating countries
- Maintain communication with national statistical offices
Technical Support and Capacity Development
- Provide technical guidance to country teams
- Support capacity-building initiatives and training programs
- Improve:
- Data quality
- Timeliness
- Accessibility of development indicators
Stakeholder Engagement
- Collaborate with:
- UN agencies
- Government institutions
- Civil society organizations
- Academic and private sector partners
- Engage with regional and global stakeholders
Research and Methodological Contributions
- Support development of tools and methodologies for:
- Poverty and environmental data
- Gender and inclusion metrics
- Data integration and innovation
- Contribute to:
- Metadata development
- Use of non-traditional data sources
- Small area estimation techniques
Communication and Reporting
- Prepare regular progress reports
- Develop communication materials such as:
- Data stories
- Web content
- Support outreach and visibility efforts
Deliverables
The consultancy includes structured outputs throughout the contract period:
- Initial workplan (June 2026)
- Monthly progress reports (July to November 2026)
- Final report with recommendations
Required Qualifications
Education
Applicants must have:
- A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in:
- Statistics
- Economics
- Development Studies
- Public Administration
- Or a related field
Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree with extensive relevant experience may be considered.
Experience
- Minimum 10 years of professional experience in statistics, economics, or social sciences
- At least 5 years of experience working with national statistical systems
- Experience in:
- Capacity building and training
- Project or programme management
- Stakeholder engagement
Technical Skills
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Strong understanding of statistical production systems
- Experience with:
- Data quality management
- Metadata systems
- Non-traditional data sources
- Familiarity with SDG monitoring frameworks is desirable
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English is required
- Knowledge of additional UN languages is an advantage
Work Environment and Location
Although the consultancy is officially linked to New York, the role is primarily home-based, allowing flexibility in work arrangements.
However, the consultant may be required to travel internationally to project countries across:
- Africa
- Asia
- Latin America
This global exposure makes the role particularly attractive for professionals seeking international experience.
Why Apply for This UN Consultancy?
Working with the United Nations provides a unique opportunity to contribute to global development and policy impact.
Key Benefits:
- Work on a high-impact global initiative
- Collaborate with leading international organizations
- Gain exposure to global data systems and policymaking
- Flexible home-based working arrangement
- Opportunity to travel internationally
This consultancy is ideal for professionals passionate about data, development, and global impact.
Application Process
Interested candidates should apply through the official United Nations careers portal.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the official UN careers website
- Search for the consultancy position
- Submit your application, including:
- Updated CV
- Relevant supporting documents
- Complete the application before the deadline
Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as positions may close once suitable candidates are identified.
Application Deadline
- Last Date to Apply: 26 April 2026
Late applications are typically not considered.
Conclusion
The United Nations Consultant role under the Data for Now Initiative is a highly impactful opportunity for experienced professionals in statistics, economics, and development. By contributing to the strengthening of national statistical systems, the selected candidate will play a key role in supporting countries to achieve sustainable development goals.
With a flexible work structure, international exposure, and collaboration with global institutions, this consultancy stands out as an excellent career opportunity in 2026.
FAQs
What is the United Nations Consultant role about?
It focuses on supporting the Data for Now Initiative to strengthen national statistical systems and improve development data.
Is this a remote job?
Yes, the role is primarily home-based with possible international travel.
What qualifications are required?
A Master’s degree in statistics, economics, or related fields, along with significant professional experience.
How much experience is needed?
At least 10 years of professional experience, including work with national statistical systems.
What is the contract duration?
The contract runs from 15 May 2026 to 15 November 2026.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline to apply is 26 April 2026.
Can international applicants apply?
Yes, applicants from all countries can apply if they meet the requirements.
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