Statistical/Research Assistant
Organizational Context
The Statistics Division (ESS) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, is responsible for developing and advocating for methodologies and standards in food and agriculture statistics. It plays a crucial role in compiling, processing, and disseminating internationally comparable data, offering capacity-building support to Member Nations. The Division also publishes various reports and yearbooks covering agricultural and food security statistics, including prices, investments, production, trade, and agri-environmental data.
Job Purpose
The Statistical/Research Assistant provides comprehensive technical, procedural, and record-keeping support for statistical data collection and presentation. This role is essential for ensuring the quality, validity, and consistency of data and information within the area of responsibility. The incumbent works under the direct supervision of a Senior Statistician/Team Leader, receiving guidance for technical and procedural matters, and exercising initiative and independent judgment. Managerial guidance focuses on the quality and validity of results, with potential to guide other statistical support staff.
Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include selecting and extracting relevant data for database construction and updates, assisting with specialized research, and maintaining the Organization's website with statistical information. The role involves drafting and editing statistical reports, including tables and graphs, and reviewing data for processing, identifying and correcting inconsistencies. The assistant will help produce tabulations for publications and ad hoc reports, customize statistical software for client requests, and prepare statistical materials for meetings. Additionally, the position requires using statistical software for analyses, providing guidance and training to other statistical support staff, and recommending improvements to operating procedures and systems.
Work Experience
Four years of experience in statistical support work are required. Desirable qualifications include intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish), familiarity with corporate structure and statistical governance, knowledge of international classifications (CPC, HS), proficiency in statistical software like R, and understanding of Food Balance Sheets methodology.
Skills
Essential skills include thorough knowledge of global agricultural production and trade statistics, contemporary data compilation and analysis software (e.g., Microsoft Excel), and relevant corporate computerized systems, policies, and procedures. Competencies such as Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, and Knowledge Sharing are also important.