National Consultant: Census Data Analysis and Reporting Expert, Freetown, Sierra Leone

The Background:

The 2026 Population and Housing Census will generate a comprehensive dataset critical for evidence-based policymaking and development planning in Sierra Leone. Transforming processed census data into actionable insights requires advanced statistical analysis, interpretation, and reporting aligned with international standards.

This consultancy will support Statistics Sierra Leone in producing high-quality census outputs, including statistical tables, analytical reports, and dissemination materials.

The Purpose of Consultancy:

To analyze census data and produce high-quality statistical outputs, reports, and visualizations that inform policy and development planning.

 In pursuance of the objectives of the engagement, the consultant, in close coordination and collaboration with the relevant Unit at Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL), and UNFPA, will be required to assist in the planning, organization, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the data processing flow of the 2026 PHC.  

More specifically, the Data Analysis expert will undertake the following:

A. Data Analysis

• Conduct descriptive and inferential statistical analysis
• Generate key demographic and socio-economic indicators
• Segment data by geographic, demographic, and socio-economic variables

B. Tabulation and Outputs

• Work with cleaned datasets to produce analytical tables
• Support validation of tabulated outputs for consistency

C. Report Writing

• Support the preparation of the initial pilot census report
• Contribute to thematic reports (e.g. population structure, fertility, migration)
• Ensure outputs align with UN and national reporting standards

D. Data Visualization

• Develop charts, graphs, and infographics
• Support clear communication of findings 

E. Policy-Relevant Outputs

• Contribute to policy briefs and summary reports
• Highlight key findings relevant to national development priorities

F. Capacity Building

• Participate in and support training of Stats SL staff 
• Support knowledge transfer on:
  • Data analysis techniques
  • Report writing
  • Data visualization

G. Collaboration

• Work closely with the Data Processing Consultant
• Provide feedback on data quality issues

• Participate in technical working sessions and dissemination activities

   

Expected Deliverables:

Duration and Working Schedule: 3 months (20th April – 19th July 2026)

Payment Schedule

Reporting Line:

• Reports to: Director of Data Science (Statistics Sierra Leone)
• Technical oversight: UNFPA
• Works closely with the National Census Coordinator, CTA, and Data Processing 

Place where services are to be delivered:

The national consultant will work in the country (Statistics Sierra Leone)

Delivery dates and how work will be delivered (e.g. electronic, hard copy, etc.):

• The final report will be available no later than 19th July 2026 and is to be provided in electronic format.
• The Consultant will progressively report on the accomplished tasks to UNFPA and Stats SL 
• The reports will be reviewed by UNFPA before submission to the Stats SL. 

Monitoring and progress control, including reporting requirements, periodicity format, and deadline:

• Weekly meetings will be organized to monitor the progress, address bottlenecks control, including reporting requirements;
• The reports of the consultants shall be submitted in the course of the assignment and will constitute the basis for the payment to be made.

Supervisory arrangements:

The consultant will be stationed at Stats SL and will work under the overall guidance of the Statistician General and the direct supervision of the Director of Data Science. The consultant is expected to collaborate closely with the Census Coordinator, CTA, and concerned staff members, ensuring a comprehensive and high-quality census data processing and analysis workflow.

Confidentiality and Data Integrity

• The consultant must not download, share, or distribute census data without the explicit knowledge and approval of the Statistician General and the Director of Data Science.
• Ensure that all data remains confidential and is used strictly for the purposes of the analysis and reporting.
• Maintain the highest level of integrity and security in handling census data, ensuring compliance with data protection policies and best practices.
• The consultant will be provided with an official email account from the Stats SL email server, which will be linked to the name of the consultant. This email will be used for all official communication during his/her time in contract

Qualifications and Experience: 

The Consultant must have:

Education

• At least an Advanced Degree in Statistics, Demography, Economics, Computer Science, Data Science, or any other relevant discipline from a recognized University;

Knowledge and Experience

• At least five (5) years’ experience processing household survey data captured using tablets for computer-assisted personal interviews (CAPI) and Survey Solutions software;
• At least ten (10) years demonstrated professional experience conducting quality assurance of household-based surveys, and population censuses, data processing, systems design and data archiving;
• At least five (5) years of experience working with the following statistical and demographic analysis software: CSPRO and SPSS. Knowledge of Python or R would be an asset;
• Good knowledge of existing technology and modern equipment in the census data processing, and of the challenging situations of developing countries in relation to population census. 
• Proven experience in planning and implementation of Census data processing, and technical capacity building/training in developing countries. 
• Proven experience in teamwork, especially in the field of population censuses. 
• Experience in leading teams in a complex multi-cultural environment is desirable. 
• Fluent spoken and written English is essential.

Inputs / services to be provided by UNFPA or implementing partner (e.g support services, office space, equipment), if applicable:

Stats SL and UNFPA will provide:

• Support services where appropriate
• Logistics arrangements while there is a need to travel in country

Other relevant information or special conditions, if any:

This work will be guided by The principles and Recommendations of the 2020 Round of Census produced by the UN statistics Division

Required Competencies: 

Values:

• Exemplifying integrity, 
• Demonstrating commitment to UNFPA and the UN system, 
• Embracing cultural diversity, 
• Embracing change

Core Competencies: 

• Achieving results,
• Being accountable,
• Developing and applying professional expertise/business acumen,
• Thinking analytically and strategically,
• Working in teams/managing ourselves and our relationships,

Compensation :

 This position offers an attractive remuneration. 

UNFPA Work Environment:

UNFPA provides a work environment that reflects the values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and healthy work-life balance. We are committed to ensuring gender parity in the organization and therefore encourage women to apply. Individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups are highly encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request, to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, and selection for all regardless of personal characteristics and dimensions of diversity. Diversity, Equit,y and Inclusion is at the heart of UNFPA's workforce - click here to learn more.

Disclaimer:

Selection and appointment may be subject to background and reference checks 

UNFPA does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing or other fee in connection with the application or recruitment process and does not concern itself with information on applicants' bank accounts.