Senior Statistical Assistant (Foresight, Research and Methodology)

OVERVIEW

Position Number: 1CAUIS0108PA

Grade: G-6

Parent Sector: Institute for Statistics (UIS)

Duty Station: Montreal

Job Family: Education

Contract Type: Project Appointment

Duration of contract: 1 year

Recruitment open to: Internal and external candidates

Application deadline (Midnight Paris Time): 08/07/2026

UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism 

Contract duration: 1 year, with the possibility of extension subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance.

INSTRUCTIONS

Only candidates who are entitled to work in Canada may apply to this position.

ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXT

The UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) is the official source of internationally comparable data in education, science, culture, and communication, and serv…The UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) is the official source of internationally comparable data in education, science, culture, and communication, and serves as the custodian agency for SDG 4 on quality education. In this capacity, the UIS coordinates the production, validation, and reporting of data with Member States and partners worldwide, ensuring the global community has the reliable evidence it needs to track progress and shape policy.

The Foresight, Research and Innovation (FRM) Section operates at the most forward-looking edge of this work, leading SDG 4 coordination, anticipating emerging data needs through strategic foresight, and developing new methodologies, including frameworks for learning assessment. This is demanding work—multiple workstreams, complex technical inputs, and a wide network of national and international partners, all in motion at once. As the agenda grows, so does the behind-the-scenes effort that sustains it: maintaining datasets, documenting processes, organizing meetings, and keeping knowledge accessible and consistent. These demands have outpaced existing capacity.

The Senior Statistical Assistant fills that gap. This is not a peripheral role but core operational infrastructure—safeguarding data integrity, powering effective knowledge management, and keeping the Section's outputs flowing smoothly. By holding this foundation steady, the incumbent frees the Section's analytical and methodological work to advance with rigor and continuity. The Terms of Reference that follow set out exactly what this role delivers.

OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST

This role is the operational backbone of the UIS Foresight, Research and Innovation Section. As its work on SDG4 coordination, foresight, and methodological development grows busier and more complex, the Senior Statistical Assistant keeps the data, documents, and daily processes organized—freeing analysts and managers to focus on the substantive work.

The job centers on three things:

• data and documentation: compiling, cleaning, and version-controlling SDG4 datasets and technical records);
• research and coordination: turning background information into briefing notes and running meetings, agendas, and follow-ups with partners and Member States), and
• programme and admin support: tracking deliverables across workstreams and handling mission, workshop, and procurement logistics.

Why it matters: UIS is the official source of internationally comparable education data and a key contributor to global SDG monitoring—work that lives or dies on data that is accurate, consistent, and ready to use. By keeping those inputs clean and processes running smoothly, this role helps the Section deliver on time and to standard.

KEY ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Programme & Workstream Support

• Support implementation of the Section's work programme, including SDG 4 coordination, strategic foresight, and methodological development
• Track workplans, timelines, and deliverables across multiple workstreams
• Maintain structured tracking tools (e.g., task lists, document logs, input matrices)
• Support coordination of inputs from internal teams and external partners

2. Data and Database Management

• Compile, clean, validate, and update datasets related to SDG 4 indicators and analytical work
• Maintain databases, indicator series, and metadata, ensuring consistency and version control
• Prepare datasets for reporting, analysis, and dissemination
• Document and archive datasets and related materials

3. Background Research & Analytical Support

• Conduct structured background research supporting foresight exercises, methodological development, and SDG 4 reporting
• Compile and synthesize information into briefing notes, tables, charts, and summaries
• Support preparation of analytical inputs for reports and presentations

Long Description

4. Knowledge Management and Documentation

• Maintain organized repositories of technical documents, guidance materials, and meeting records
• Ensure version control and accessibility of documents
• Support drafting and formatting of technical notes, guidance documents, and meeting summaries

5. SDG 4 Coordination & Meeting Support

• Support preparation and organization of technical meetings, workshops, and consultations
• Assist with agenda preparation, compilation of background documents, and follow-up on action points
• Facilitate communication with partners and Member States (logistical and documentation support)

6. Administrative and Logistic Support

• Provide logistical and administrative support for missions, workshops, and contracts
• Support procurement and coordination processes as required
• Contribute to the smooth day-to-day functioning of the team

COMPETENCIES - Core (C) & Managerial (M)

• Communication (C)
• Accountability (C)
• Innovation (C)
• Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement (C)
• Planning and organizing (C)
• Professionalism (C)
• Results focus (C)
• Teamwork (C)
• Professionalism (C)

Short Description

For detailed information, please consult the UNESCO Competency Framework.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• Completed secondary education, or technical or vocational schooling.

WORK EXPERIENCE 

• At least eight (8) years of relevant experience in data processing, database management or programme support, including demonstrated experience supporting projects with several moving parts and organizing meetings and logistics.

Long Description

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Proficiency with statistical software (for example R or Stata) and advanced spreadsheet functions.
• Experience maintaining databases, datasets and metadata, with strong attention to accuracy and version control.
• Experience using document or knowledge-management systems and documenting processes.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to track tasks and manage several workstreams and deadlines at once.
• Clear writing, able to produce technical notes and documentation.

LANGUAGES 

• Excellent knowledge of English (written and spoken).

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• Post-secondary training in one or more of: statistics or data management; education, social sciences or development studies; or administration, project management or information management.

WORK EXPERIENCE

• Experience in an international organization or in projects spanning several countries. 
• Exposure to education data or to work related to the Sustainable Development Goals.

Long Description

LANGUAGES 

• Working knowledge of French, or of another official language of the Organization (Arabic, Chinese, Russian or Spanish).

BENEFITS AND ENTITLEMENTS

UNESCO’s salaries consist of a basic salary and other benefits which may include if applicable: 30 days annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, pension plan etc. 

The approximate annual starting salary for this post is  58,962 CAD. 

For full information on benefits and entitlements, please consult our Guide to Staff Benefits.

SELECTION AND HIRING PROCESS

Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information, by the above deadline.

To apply, please visit the UNESCO Careers website. No modifications can be made to the application once submitted. 

The process may include pre-recorded video interviews and/or written assessments, interviews with a Panel, as well as reference checks. In addition, candidates may be requested to provide additional information which may be pertinent to the position’s qualifications.  

Please note that all candidates, whether selected or not, will be informed of the outcome of their application in due course. 

Short-listed candidates may also be added to Talent Pools; subject to their consent (i.e. Data Privacy Statement).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• UNESCO recalls that paramount consideration in the appointment of staff members shall be the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence and integrity.
• UNESCO applies to a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment.
• UNESCO is committed to achieving and sustaining equitable and diverse geographical distribution, as well as gender parity among its staff members in all categories and at all grades. Furthermore, UNESCO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Candidates from non- and under-represented Member States (last update here) are particularly welcome and strongly encouraged to apply.
• lndividuals from minority groups and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply.
• All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.
• Geographical mobility is required for staff members appointed to UNESCO’s international posts.
• In the event that your candidature is retained for an interview, you will be required to provide, in advance, a scanned copy of the degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificate(s) required for this position. UNESCO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO. The list can be accessed through the link: https://www.whed.net
• The statutory retirement age at UNESCO is 65 years.
• UNESCO appointments are subject to medical clearance.  Issuance of a visa by the host country of the duty station, which will be facilitated by the Organization, is required for International Professional positions.
• UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.