Evaluation Specialist (Data Science), P-3, 364 days, Evaluation Office, NYHQ

Unicef - New York, NY

Full-time - Mid Level

New York, NY

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

The Evaluation Specialist (Data Science) at UNICEF will focus on leveraging AI and machine learning applications to enhance the evaluation processes and improve cost-efficiency. This role involves collaborating with various teams to generate evidence for global evaluations, leading the development of AI-powered projects, and promoting the use of advanced data analytics and visualization techniques. The specialist will also support capacity-building initiatives and foster partnerships to advance the application of data science in evaluations.

Responsibilities

• Lead the experimentation, development, and replication of AI/machine learning applications for evaluation purposes.
• Identify opportunities to create AI platforms using big data methods and emerging AI functionalities.
• Use Natural Language Processing (NLP) to analyze textual data from the Evaluation Information System Integration (EISI) database.
• Supervise and mentor consultants and interns in data science and machine learning approaches.
• Contribute to advanced data analysis for rigorous evaluations and collaborate with global evaluation teams.
• Advise EO evaluation staff on multifaceted analytical approaches for data analysis and interpretation.
• Lead data innovation in quantitative analysis protocols and methodologies.
• Initiate and coordinate pilot studies using real-time data sources.
• Contribute to data management, ensuring data quality, security, and compliance.
• Lead and promote creative data visualization on various platforms.
• Produce high-quality methodological briefs and learning materials related to AI applications.
• Support the development of capacity-building activities for AI/machine learning in evaluations.
• Initiate partnerships with other organizations to advance AI/machine learning applications.

Requirements

• An advanced university degree (master or PhD) in sciences such as mathematics, statistics, data science, economics, or public policy.
• At least five years of experience in data science, data analysis, and innovation, preferably in the development field relevant to UNICEF's mandate.
• Proven record of applying AI/Machine learning in research and evaluation for development agencies.
• Experience with statistical computer languages (Scala/R/Python), Stata, SPSS, and Databricks.
• Ability to work cross-functionally to define problem statements and build analytical models.
• Demonstrated ability to stay updated with advancements in AI and apply them creatively to research and evaluation.
• Proven record of working with internal and external stakeholders at multiple levels.

Nice-to-haves

• Knowledge of another United Nations language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is an asset.
• Experience with data visualization libraries such as Matplotlib, Pyplot, or PowerBI.

Benefits

• Paid parental leave
• Breastfeeding breaks
• Flexible working arrangements
• Reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities