Statistical Knowledge Management Officer, Geneva

Closing date: Monday, 6 April 2015

Human Resources Development Department

International Labour Office

Vacancy No: RAPS/1/2015/STATISTICS/01

Title: Statistical Knowledge Management Officer

Grade: P.3

Contract type: Fixed-Term Appointment

Date: 5 March 2015

Application Deadline (midnight Geneva time) 6 April 2015

Organization unit: DDG/P STATISTICS

Duty Station: Geneva, Switzerland

General introduction: The following are eligible to apply:

  • ILO Internal candidates in accordance with paragraphs 31 and 32 of Annex I of the Staff Regulations.
  • External candidates.

Staff members with at least five years of continuous service with the Office are encouraged to apply and will be given special consideration at the screening and evaluation stage.

In accordance with the Staff Regulations and letters of appointment, successful candidates for positions in the Professional category would be expected to take up different assignments (field and Headquarters) during their career, the desirable length of an assignment in any specific position being two to five years, following which the incumbent should be willing to move to another assignment and/or duty station.

Within the context of the Office's renewed efforts to promote mobility, staff members seeking mobility are encouraged to apply to vacancies. Mobility will be given special consideration at the screening and evaluation stages.

The specific language requirements for this position are detailed hereunder. Candidates whose mother tongue is not one of the ILO working languages (English, French and Spanish) shall possess a fully satisfactory working knowledge of at least one of the working languages in order to apply. If appointed, and if so required as per the position requirements, they may be required to acquire a working knowledge of a second working language during their initial years of service in the Office.

The ILO values diversity among its staff. We welcome applicants from qualified women and men, including those with disabilities. If you are unable to complete our online application form due to a disability, please send an email to erecruit@ilo.org .

Applications from qualified candidates from non- or under-represented member States, or from those member States which staffing forecasts indicate will become non- or under-represented in the near future, would be particularly welcome. A list of these countries is in Appendix I.

Successful completion of the Assessment Centre is required for all external candidates.

Conditions of employment are described in Appendix II.

INTRODUCTION

The position is located in the Department of Statistics (STATISTICS). STATISTICS has developed an integrated data compilation and dissemination system called ILOSTAT. The system provides simplified access to statistical information by subject or country, and allows for easy downloading of the data as well.

The back office of the ILOSTAT Information System is a data compilation and processing system that collects information in diverse ways and applies consistency rules to maximize the quality and comparability of the collected data. Several modules have been added to the system to support data collection and to disseminate the information through different channels. Besides maintaining ILOSTAT Information System, the Microdata and Knowledge Management Unit also administers the ILO Microdata Repository. Managing this repository implies acquiring microdata sets required by the Organization's specialists and related metadata, document them according to standards and catalogue all the information.

The incumbent will be responsible for the maintenance of the information flows in ILOSTAT and will have active participation in the analysis, design, implementation and support of new modules for ILOSTAT regarding data compilation and dissemination, and in adapting the existing applications and procedures to the requirements of these projects. He/she will also be responsible for the technical administration of the Microdata Repository and will provide support to the Statistical Information Assistants in charge of the documentation activities.

The incumbent reports to the Head of the Microdata and Knowledge Management Unit.

Description of Duties

Specific duties

  1. Undertake data management activities, including the development and execution of processes that properly manage the full data lifecycle needs of STATISTICS.
  2. Provide first level support for the Back Office, Website and SDMX API modules of ILOSTAT, in both procedural and technical aspects.
  3. Provide the Oracle WebCenter Portal with configuration support (Design, develop and configure business components, switch data sources, compile and install new application on the Weblogic managed servers, etc).
  4. Administer the Microdata Repository, and give support to Statistical Information Assistants in charge of documenting studies.
  5. Design and build programs and procedures to meet the needs of users in statistical data processing ensuring smooth data flows and the integrity and consistency of data.
  6. Prepare appropriate documentation (functional/information architecture design, process designs, E-R Model schemas, system documentation, etc.) according to STATISTICS' standards and business requirements. Maintain documentation relating to business processes and training; ensure all standards and procedures are being followed and maintained according to evolving business requirements.
  7. Ensure that appropriate software development, configuration and project management are practiced according to accepted standards within the software development lifecycle and information models like GSBPM, DDI and/or SDMX, and as relevant to the development language being used.
  8. Identify opportunities for changes to the processes, systems and structures that would result in increased efficiency and effectiveness by monitoring key performance indicators and using best practices whenever possible.
  9. Investigate reported application problems, conduct tests to isolate problems and root cause in order to prepare clear Incident Reports for further investigation by technical operations and development analysts. Conduct further diagnosis and tests as necessary to assist with problem resolution investigating and implementing workarounds where appropriate.
  10. Assist in project planning, analysis, design, and testing activities during solution enhancements and provide input on tools, standards, templates, and methodology. Review design and development efforts that will support future enhancements. Suggest appropriate solutions to ensure client satisfaction and continuous alignment with client's business needs, and develop strong client relationships by listening, understanding and anticipating needs.
  11. Plan, review and carry out work in conformity with policy guidelines, and accomplishment of assigned objectives and assignments.

These specific duties should be carried out in conjunction with the following generic duties adapted to the work program assigned:

  1. Organize, design, plan and carry out the collection, evaluation, processing, analysis, projections and dissemination of statistical data in specific fields.
  2. Select methods of collecting data, planning and preparing data-gathering instruments; developing appropriate instructions and guidelines for it, and identify sources of data including research studies, surveys and other statistical sources.
  3. Develop and manage statistical databases. This includes design and development in collaboration with a system analyst or computer programmer. Ensure maintenance of the databases as well as related documentation.
  4. Provide technical support to other ILO programmes and projects and/or to the Organization's constituents.
  5. Provide technical and administrative backstopping support services to field offices and technical co-operation projects.
  6. Participate in the development or revision of standards on statistical concepts, definitions, classifications and methodologies, including analysis of existing practices. Contribute to the preparation of technical reports.
  7. Participate in seminars, workshops, expert meetings and training sessions as a technical resource person.
  8. Draft technical documents for international, intergovernmental and expert group meetings and assist in drafting relevant reports.
  9. Furnish technical advice and assistance to the statistical offices of national ministries and constituents in solving problems in collecting, classifying and tabulating and presenting data, in designing questionnaires and in developing survey methods, performing these functions through correspondence and missions.
  10. Undertake research and provide inputs in the preparations of manuals on related topics.

Required Qualifications

Education

Advanced university degree in statistics and/or computer science or in other related disciplines or a first level degree and a recognized professional qualification in statistical data and/or process management.

Experience

At least three years of professional experience at the national level and two years at the international level in statistical information and data management. Demonstrated experience in recommending innovative analytical solutions as well as in troubleshooting complex environments would be an asset. Experience working in the production of official statistics is highly desired.

Languages (See also above)

Excellent command of one working language of the ILO (English, French or Spanish) and good knowledge of another one is desirable.

Competencies

In addition to the ILO core competencies, this position requires: Technical competencies - Ability to apply statistical techniques and methods to a wide variety of practical problems; undertake research techniques and analyse complex cross-national practices and data sets covering a wide range of issues in the specialized technical field; guide and coordinate the work of General Service staff and external collaborators and to prepare reports and publications of a high quality, technically sound with conclusions leading to action plan and programme development. Good knowledge of the statistics' 'business rules', with a clear understanding of the Generic Statistical Information Model (GSIM) and Generic Statistical Business Process Model (GSBPM) recommendations. Excellent analytical skills. Ability to document problems, assess impact and mitigate resolution of issues in a clear and concise manner; ability to liaise and negotiate with customers concerning relevant technical issues. Sufficient understanding of relevant business processes, operating strategies, policies, and procedures within the UN environment; capability to gather, document and analyze information; ability to draw conclusions, define strategies and suggest solutions; Good verbal and written communication skills; advanced application software skills, including presentation, spreadsheet, word processing, and project management software tools and applications; Up-to-date knowledge of technological advancements, technical specifications and operating procedures in the area of work. Knowledge of and interest in web development and other more interactive knowledge management and sharing methods. Ability to analyze user requirements, incorporate them into new and existing systems and to resolve complex technical problems.

Good knowledge in the following technical areas: data management; systems analysis, development, planning, and documentation methods and standards; software development tools, methodologies and coding best practices.

Knowledge of technologies such as SAS, Stata, SPSS, R, Oracle WebCenter 11G; Oracle Application Express (APEX); Oracle Application Development Framework (ADF); Oracle Database 11G, Java, XML would be an advantage. Experience using at least one of the following tools: Oracle Application Express (APEX), PL/SQL or SAS. Good knowledge of Oracle database PL/SQL and Java/JavaScript programming/ scripting languages. Good knowledge and experience in XML and HTML languages. Working knowledge of relational modeling.

Statistical data processing knowledge and/or experience, and knowledge of one or more statistical packages' programming languages (SAS, STATA, SPSS, R, etc.) will also constitute an advantage.

Behavioural competencies - Effective time management skills and multi-tasking capabilities; ability to work independently and effectively at all levels of a collaborative team environment. The ability to work in a multicultural environment and gender-sensitive behaviour and attitudes are also required.

Additional Information:

Evaluation (which may include one or several written tests and a pre-interview competency-based assessment centre) and the interviews will tentatively take place between May and August 2015. Candidates are requested to ensure their availability should they be short listed for further consideration.

APPENDIX I

Angola

Antigua and Barbuda

Armenia

Austria

Azerbaijan

Bahamas

Bahrain

Barbados

Belize

Botswana

Brazil

Brunei Darussalam

Cabo Verde, Republic of

Cambodia

Chad

China

Congo

Cyprus

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste

Djibouti

Equatorial Guinea

Eritrea

Gabon

Gambia

Georgia

Grenada

Guatemala

Guyana

Haiti

Iceland

Indonesia

Iraq

Japan

Kazakhstan

Kiribati

Kuwait

Kyrgyzstan

Latvia

Liberia

Libya

Maldives, Republic of the

Malta

Marshall Islands

Montenegro

Mozambique

Namibia

Nicaragua

Oman

Palau

Panama

Papua New Guinea

Paraguay

Poland

Qatar

Republic of Korea

Russian Federation

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Samoa

San Marino

Saudi Arabia

Seychelles

Sierra Leone

Singapore

Slovakia

Solomon Islands

Somalia

South Sudan, Republic of

Suriname

Swaziland

Tajikistan

Turkey

Turkmenistan

Tuvalu

United Arab Emirates

United States of America

Uzbekistan

Vanuatu

Yemen

APPENDIX II CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

- Any appointment/extension of appointment is subject to ILO Staff Regulations and other relevant internal rules.

- The first contract will be issued for a twelve-month period (for Geneva-based positions) and a twenty-four month period (for non Geneva-based positions)

- A successful external candidate will be on probation for the first two years of assignment.

- Any extension of contract beyond the probation period is subject to satisfactory conduct and performance.

Grade: P.3

Salary and post adjustment (with dependants)

US$

Salary

Minimum

60205

rising to

Maximum

80674

Post adjustment for Geneva

Minimum

59602

Maximum

79867

Salary and post adjustment (without dependants)

US$

Salary

Minimum

56198

Maximum

Maximum

75001

Post adjustment for Geneva

Minimum

55636

Maximum

74250

Please note that the above salary levels are determined according to the criteria established by the International Civil Service Commission. The ILO is international public sector employer and salary and other employment conditions are not negotiable.

Other allowances and benefits subject to specific terms of appointment:

  • Children's allowance (except for the first child if the dependent rate of salary is paid in respect of that child);
  • Children's education grant (per child per year);
  • Pension and Health Insurance schemes;
  • 30 working days' annual leave;
  • Assignment Grant;
  • Entitlement to transport expenses of personal effects;
  • Repatriation Grant;
  • Home-leave travel with eligible dependants every two years;
  • Rental subsidy (if applicable).

Recruitment is normally made at the initial step in the grade.

Salaries and emoluments are exempt from taxation by the Swiss authorities and, on the basis of international agreements or national law relating to presence or residence abroad, are generally exempt from taxation by other governments. In the absence of exemption, in most cases tax paid will be reimbursed in accordance with an ILO document which will be supplied upon request.

While the successful candidate will be initially working in Geneva, he/she may be assigned to any duty station designated by the Director-General of the ILO.

Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application form.

To apply, please visit ILO's e-Recruitment website at: erecruit.ilo.org. The system provides instructions for online application procedures.

The ILO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process whether at the application, interview, processing or training stage. Messages originating from a non ILO e-mail account - @ilo.org - should be disregarded. In addition, the ILO does not require or need to know any information relating to the bank account details of applicants.

Depending on the location and availability of candidates, assessors and interview panel members, the ILO may use communication technologies such as Skype, Video or teleconference, e-mail, etc for the assessment and evaluation of candidates at the different stages of the recruitment process, including assessment centres, technical tests or interviews.

ILO has a smoke-free environment

Application Information: https://erecruit.ilo.org/public/hrd-cl-vac-view.asp?jobinfo_uid_c=30831&vaclng=en