Expertise is sought across diverse topics such as health, education, transport and economics. The focus of work ranges from research and policy development, to project management, delivery and evaluation. Each organisation also has its own internal functions and infrastructure, eg, HR, communications, legal services. As well as permanent roles, organisations often recruit for short-term contracting and consulting positions as needed, and most maintain a register of approved contracting staff.
Below are a few of the roles you may consider working in:
Policy officer – operates in advisory roles, concerned with the guiding rules and principles of government.
Statistician – collects and analyses data to summarize information, solve problems and make predictions. The Royal Statistical society outlines the role of government statistician.
Economist – uses economic theories and knowledge to uncover trends and provide specialist advice. The IMF provides an overview of what this role means with their organisation.
Research Analyst – analyses data to help an organisation make informed decisions. The UNRISD provides a definition of what a typical research analyst does.
Humanitarian Affairs Officer – acts as the central point for communication and liaison to support an effective humanitarian response. MSF provides a useful overview of the role within their organisation.
Interpreter – converts spoken or sign language statements from one language to another. The UN Interpreter job profile provides further details.
Security Analyst – focuses on understanding and defending risks to the security of information, data or people. The UN recruits security information analysts throughout the world.