Evaluation and Research Analyst (ERA)
Organizational Context
The Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) of UNDP provides independent, credible, and useful evaluative evidence to support accountability and learning for the Executive Board and management of UNDP, UNCDF, and UNV. The IEO operates with structural independence and manages five workstreams: Country Programme Evaluation, Corporate and Thematic Evaluation, Capacity Development and Decentralized Evaluation, Knowledge and Data Management, and Operations. It also holds fiduciary responsibilities for the UN Evaluation Group Secretariat.
Job Purpose
The Evaluation and Research Analyst (ERA) provides critical analytical support to the IEO's evaluation work, focusing primarily on independent country programme evaluations (ICPEs) and supporting other office sections. This role is integral to enhancing the technical quality of evaluations and advancing the section's research and evaluation methodologies. The ERA will leverage mixed methods, research rigor, complex data analytics, and emerging technologies like AI to strengthen evidence bases and generate actionable insights. The position is ideal for individuals seeking to develop evaluation expertise while contributing significantly to independent evaluations that inform country programmes and development strategies.
Responsibilities
Contribute to the design and execution of Independent Country Programme Evaluations (ICPEs), including developing research frameworks and methodologies under lead evaluator guidance. Collect and analyze data, contributing to findings, conclusions, and recommendations with rigor and traceability. Support the identification, contracting, and management of evaluation teams and consultants, ensuring deliverable quality. Engage with country office staff, national stakeholders, and internal/external partners, coordinating consultations and validation sessions. Prepare evaluation Terms of Reference (TOR) and other necessary documentation. Conduct high-quality research using primary and secondary data, applying quantitative, qualitative, and AI-driven methodologies. Perform programme and financial analysis, creating dashboards and visualizations. Design and analyze surveys, manage datasets, and oversee evaluation timelines and resources. Liaise with various UNDP teams and external consultants. Support the Chief of Section with background materials and research. Contribute to knowledge sharing and methodological innovation within the IEO.
Work Experience
A minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience with a Master's degree (or 4 years with a Bachelor's) is required. This experience should include contributing to or conducting evaluations and research in international development, utilizing innovative methods, and data analysis techniques. Experience with data management, dashboard development (e.g., Power BI), and data visualization is essential.
Skills
System Thinking, Project Management, Communication, Working with Evidence and Data, Tech Literacy (including AI tools like AIDA, Power BI, Python, R), Technical Evaluation Skills (methodologies, theories of change, logic models, data analysis, reporting), Technical Capacity Development.