Economist (Research) - Parental Leave Replacement

Introduction

The position is located in the Research and Publications Department (RESEARCH), which conducts research on economic, social and environmental frontier issues affecting the World of Work, driving change and transformations. Research is undertaken in a collaborative and inter-disciplinary manner leading to regular Flagship Reports, Academic Papers, Working Papers and Research Briefs for the benefit of evidence-based policy making by constituents at all levels.

The main role of the position is to act as a parental leave replacement for a duration of six months. During this time, the incumbent will conduct policy-relevant research and contribute to the communication material and the underlying research of academic and policy-oriented publications, pre-dominantly those related to the WESO Thematic Report 2026 on Skills and Lifelong learning, contributing to drafting texts and using applied techniques as well as conceptual and descriptive analyses.

The incumbent works under direct supervision of the Senior Economist of the Skills, Active Labour Market Policy, and Policy Evaluation team within RESEARCH.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

1.    Contribute to the WESO Thematic Report on Lifelong Learning and Skills Dynamics, providing analytical support. This includes understanding and engaging with microeconometric analyses and data science outputs—based on survey and online labour market data, of both cross-sectional and longitudinal nature—to support the accurate interpretation and presentation of findings. Apply relevant tools (e.g. Stata, R, Python) to support empirical findings, and contribute to the development of data visualizations using advance data science methods and methodological annexes.

2.    Provide editorial support to the WESO Report, including to the layout, typesetting, translation, and other editorial processes. 

3.    Draft and/or provide technical input into the development, peer review and editing of policy and research briefs, working papers, and other knowledge products that translate technical findings into clear, policy-relevant messages. This includes summarizing empirical results in regional briefs and contributing content for dissemination via digital platforms and social media.

4.    Contribute to the design and implementation of the communication strategy for the WESO Thematic Report, including producing communication-related content and visuals that summarize key findings for broader audiences, in particular, assisting in the preparation of supporting outputs, such as regional briefs, summarizing findings, and planning for the report’s launch.

5.    Participate in internal and external meetings, presentations, and email exchanges to provide technical input and feedback on: the development of the WESO Thematic Report, ongoing research on skills dynamics (including links to non-wage amenities and labour market outcomes), collaborations with ILO field offices, and other emerging research and policy workstreams within the Skills and Evaluation Unit.

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Required qualifications

Education

Advanced level university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in economics or other relevant field., with specialisation in labour or development.

Experience

At least three years of experience in research in areas of labour or development, including quantitative analyses, with proven record of contribution to policy-oriented research reports.

A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) in one of the afore-mentioned fields or other relevant field with an additional two years of relevant experience, in addition to the required experience stated below, will be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree.

Languages

Excellent command of English.

A working knowledge of a second official language (French, Spanish) of the Organization would be an asset.

Knowledge and technical/behavioural competencies

In addition to the ILO core competencies, this position requires:

Technical competencies

Ability to carry out assignments in accordance with instructions and guidelines; ability to use analytical tools and qualitative and quantitative techniques (applied econometrics, quasi-experimental methods, impact evaluation), including in data science; demonstrated knowledge of statistical and econometric techniques; ability to conduct research, draft research papers and working papers and provide inputs into policy reports; effective communication skills. Proficiency in Stata or R, and working knowledge of the other. Working knowledge of Python. Ability to engage with communications materials, including producing materials for social media.

Behavioural competencies

Excellent trouble-shooting and problem-solving skills; ability to work both independently and within a team-based environment; discipline in following strict deadlines; keen attention to detail and outcome quality; ability to organize and balance multiple areas of work; ability to work in a multicultural environment and to demonstrate gender-sensitive and non-discriminatory behaviour and attitudes.