Programme Specialist, Population Dynamics & Youth
Organizational Context
UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health and rights agency, aims to ensure every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. In Timor-Leste since 2003, UNFPA supports the government in census activities and promotes sexual and reproductive health, rights, and gender equality. The current program focuses on achieving universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, addressing maternal deaths, unmet family planning needs, and gender-based violence, with a focus on vulnerable groups.
Job Purpose
This role supports UNFPA's fifth Country Programme (2026-2030) in Timor-Leste, aligning with national development plans and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. The primary objective is to empower young people by fostering coordinated multisectoral programs and providing evidence-based policy advice to harness the demographic dividend. The position will contribute to a technical data working group, strengthening the quality and use of demographic and socio-economic data for planning and policy advocacy. The incumbent will provide dedicated technical and programmatic leadership on population dynamics, youth investment, and development issues, crucial for a country where 62% of the population is under 25.
Responsibilities
The Programme Specialist will lead UNFPA's technical work on population dynamics, demographic dividend, and youth development, translating demographic evidence into policy dialogue and program results. Key duties include analyzing socio-economic and demographic trends, managing the Population Dynamics and Youth Development portfolio, and collaborating with national ministries, statistics institutes, and civil society. The role involves developing youth investment cases, producing policy briefs, and supporting policy dialogue with government and development partners. Additionally, the specialist will represent UNFPA in interagency forums, lead resource mobilization efforts, strengthen youth coordination mechanisms, and provide capacity-building support on demography and youth data utilization to national counterparts and UNFPA staff.
Work Experience
A minimum of eight years of progressive professional experience in population dynamics, demographic analysis, population and development, or youth development. Demonstrated ability in data analysis, research, policy analysis, and applying demographic methods is required. Experience with national statistics systems is an asset. Proficiency in data visualization tools is desirable. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and computer skills are essential.
Skills
Accountability, Adaptability and Flexibility, Creativity, Judgement and Decision-making, Planning and Organizing, Professionalism, Self-Management. Expertise in Economics, poverty reduction, livelihoods, Information technology and telecommunications, and Natural resources management is also relevant.