National Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Consultant (Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys – MICS), Yerevan, Armenia

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For every child, the right to peace 

The Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) is an international household survey programme developed and supported by UNICEF. It is accepted as an international standard for household surveying, providing the users with statistically sound and internationally comparable data of key indicators related to households, with a special focus on women and children.

The Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) is an international household survey program developed and supported by UNICEF. It is recognized as the global gold standard for household surveys, providing statistically sound and internationally comparable data on key indicators related to households, with a special focus on women and children.

MICS will be conducted in Armenia for the first time. The last large-scale household survey measuring mostly similar indicators, the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS), was implemented in Armenia in 2015. As a result, the data on many of these indicators are now outdated, creating a significant data gap for national monitoring and decision-making. MICS is included in the Statistical Program of the Statistical Committee of the Republic of Armenia (Armstat), highlighting the renewed importance placed on the MICS methodology and the data by the Government.  MICS Armenia will be implemented under the technical leadership of Armstat, with UNICEF support, ensuring national ownership and alignment with international standards.

MICS is a sample survey that provides up-to-date information on the situation of children, women and men, and measures key indicators that allow countries to monitor progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and other internationally agreed-upon goals, targets and indicators. In MICS Armenia the envisaged sample size is approximately 10,000 households, covering all regions of Armenia.

During MICS surveys women and men are interviewed during face-to-face interviews in residential households that are randomly selected from a set of sample areas called clusters. A cluster usually corresponds to a census Enumeration Area (EA), or a small locality (e.g., village), although sometimes it may correspond to a group of EAs, or a portion of an EA. In Armenia, due to transition to administrative census and considering that existing sampling frames are outdated and non-digital, a newly developed digital national sampling frame – developed with support from the World Bank and consisting of geospatially defined pre-Enumeration Areas (pre-EAs) – will be used as the basis for selecting the MICS clusters.

Prior to the main fieldwork, a mapping and listing (M&L) operation is conducted, during which maps are validated and updated, all structures located in the sampled clusters are listed and households are identified. The main objective of the household mapping and listing operation is to create a complete and updated list of households for all selected clusters, so that the sampled households can represent the total population. It will also help to plan fieldwork logistics, prevent omissions and duplications, and reduce operational risks and errors. In case of Armenia integrated digital mapping and listing will be conducted, which will enable to further enhance accuracy and efficiency, enable real-time data integration and quality assurance, and improve visualization.

The National MICS GIS and Spatial Statistics Consultant will be responsible for reviewing the sampling frame, cluster maps, and field listing outputs to ensure consistency, accuracy, and quality of the MICS7 survey preparatory data and main fieldwork. The Consultant will work under supervision of UNICEF Armenia CRM/E Specialist in close coordination with the Information Resources Management and Technologies Department of ArmStat and closely with the MICS National Consultant, MICS Sampling Expert, MICS Data Processing Consultant, and MICS GIS Expert. The Consultant will review the sampling frame and support its improvement based on data available to ArmStat, review secondary editing reports, provide timely feedback to field teams and ensure corrective actions are taken, support the quality assurance of listing, mapping, and main data collection operations through systematic checks, feedback loops, and coordination with supervisors. The consultant will also contribute to the documentation of errors and corrections, and ensure that edited outputs are accurate, complete, and ready for use in further stages of MICS implementation. Throughout the listing, mapping, and main fieldwork phases, National GIS Consultant (MICS) will ensure that data review and editing adhere to MICS protocols and quality standards, support the uploading of CAPI on tablets, provide other technical support, coordinate the collection of GPS coordinates during the mapping and listing operation, supports the MICS GIS Expert in preparing the survey GIS database.  

How can you make a difference? 

Specific tasks included in the scope of work of the National MICS GIS and Spatial Statistics Consultant are:

A. Sampling Frame and Data Review

1. Review sampling frame provided to ensure consistency, completeness, and compliance with MICS7 standards.
2. Identify and propose improvements to the sampling frame based on available national data sources.
3. Support integration of available data (including addresses, and typology of buildings such as residential, business, private house, or multi-apartment building) into the sampling frame to enhance spatial accuracy and household identification.
4. Verify cluster maps and ensure alignment between the sampling frame and mapping outputs.

B. Mapping and Listing Testing, Training and Pilot, Main Fieldwork Training and Pilot

5. Support the preparation and implementation of Mapping and Listing testing activities, including validation of digital mapping and listing instruments, participating in testing to help in identifying operational and technical issues, and propose corrective measures to improve tools, procedures, and field workflows.
6. Contribute to the adaptation of mapping and listing training materials to the national context and review Armenian-language versions.
7. Participate in M&L training and pilot activities for supervisors and field staff, providing technical support on GIS procedures, use of digital tools, and adherence to quality standards.
8. Support the adaptation and review of GIS- and GPS-related components of main fieldwork training materials, including review of Armenian-language versions, and contribute to main fieldwork training and pilot activities with a focus on spatial data quality requirements and correct application of geospatial procedures during data collection.
9. Document lessons learned from testing, and pilot phases and support their incorporation into revised guidance and operational procedures.

 C. Quality Assurance and Feedback

10. Review field listing outputs to confirm internal consistency, completeness, and spatial accuracy.
11. Examine secondary editing reports and identify patterns or recurring issues.
12. Provide timely feedback to field teams and ArmStat counterparts on identified errors.
13. Ensure corrective actions are implemented promptly during listing, mapping, and data collection.
14. Support quality assurance systems by establishing systematic checks and feedback loops.

D. Data Processing and Technical Support

15. Support data processing specialists in uploading and testing the CAPI (Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing) system on tablets.
16. Provide troubleshooting and technical assistance during fieldwork setup and implementation.
17. Coordinate collection and verification of GPS coordinates during listing and mapping operations.

E. GIS Database and Spatial Analysis

18. Assist the MICS GIS Expert in preparing and maintaining the MICS7 GIS database.
19. Ensure spatial data integrity and alignment with MICS geocoding and mapping protocols.
20. Support visualization and mapping needs related to sampling, fieldwork progress, and survey coverage.

F. Documentation, Reporting and Capacity Building

21. Document identified errors and corrective actions taken throughout preparatory and fieldwork stages.
22. Ensure that edited outputs are accurate, complete, and properly archived for later use in MICS processing.
23. Contribute to technical documentation and reports on listing, mapping, and spatial data quality assurance.
24. Develop a guidance document for ArmStat team to use.
25. Facilitate training and information sharing sessions for ArmStat and other relevant parties to inform on the process.

If you would like to know more about this position, please review the complete Job Description here:  TOR_National GIS Consultant for MICS Armenia VA.pdf

To qualify as an advocate for every child you will have… 

Minimum requirements:

Education: 

• University degree in GIS, geography, geoinformatics, statistics, computer science, spatial planning, or data analysis or any other related technical field is required.
• Specialized training or certification in GIS, spatial statistics, geospatial data analysis, or mapping systems (e.g. ArcGIS, QGIS) is an advantage.

Work Experience: 

• Proven minimum of 5 years of professional experience in GIS, spatial statistics, or related data management fields, preferably in household or population-based surveys.
• Hands-on experience in geospatial analysis, mapping, and visualization using software such as ArcGIS, QGIS, or equivalent GIS platforms.
• Demonstrated experience in developing, managing, and maintaining geospatial databases, including spatial data cleaning, validation, and integration.
• Experience in working with national statistical offices or government agencies on survey design, sampling frame development, and field mapping operations is a strong asset.
• Experience with GPS data collection and verification, and understanding of coordinate systems, geocoding, and projection standards.
• Knowledge of CAPI-based data collection systems and experience collaborating with data processing teams on integrating spatial components (experience with CSPro or Survey Solutions is an advantage).
• Proficiency in at least one statistical or data analysis software (e.g., SPSS, R, or Stata) for spatial and statistical data linkage.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and quality assurance skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication, documentation, and coordination abilities to work with multidisciplinary teams.
• Proven ability to deliver technical training and build capacities of national counterparts in GIS and data management.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with ability to handle multiple parallel tasks under tight timelines.

Fluency in Armenian and English is required; knowledge of Russian is an asset.

Terms of the application:

The deadline for the submission of applications is 24 December 2025. Applications should include:

• Cover letter;
• on-line application;
• Financial Proposal (lumpsum fee for the consultancy in ALL and inclusive of travel and other expenses and all taxes).

All qualified applicants should apply online, using the UNICEF E-Recruitment system and following the online application link. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

For every Child, you demonstrate…

UNICEF’s Core Values of Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust and Accountability and Sustainability (CRITAS) underpin everything we do and how we do it. Get acquainted with Our Values Charter: UNICEF Values

The UNICEF competencies required for this post are…

(1) Builds and maintains partnerships

(2) Demonstrates self-awareness and ethical awareness

(3) Drive to achieve results for impact

(4) Innovates and embraces change

(5) Manages ambiguity and complexity

(6) Thinks and acts strategically

(7) Works collaboratively with others 

Familiarize yourself with our competency framework and its different levels.

This position has been assessed as an elevated risk role for Child Safeguarding purposes as it is either a role with direct contact with children, a role that works directly with identifiable children’s data, a safeguarding response role, or an assessed risk role. Additional vetting and assessment for elevated risk roles in child safeguarding (potentially including additional criminal background checks) apply.

UNICEF promotes and advocates for the protection of the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything it does and is mandated to support the realization of the rights of every child, including those most disadvantaged, and our global workforce must reflect the diversity of those children. The UNICEF family is committed to include everyone, irrespective of their race/ethnicity, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, socio-economic background, minority, or any other status.

UNICEF encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, religious or ethnic backgrounds, and from people with disabilities, including neurodivergence. We offer a wide range of benefits to our staff, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks and reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. UNICEF provides reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment process. If you require any accommodation, please submit your request through the accessibility email button on the UNICEF Careers webpage Accessibility jobs-near-me.org UNICEF. Should you be shortlisted, please get in touch with the recruiter directly to share further details, enabling us to make the necessary arrangements in advance.

UNICEF does not hire candidates who are married to children (persons under 18). UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNICEF, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background or disabilities. UNICEF is committed to promote the protection and safeguarding of all children. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles. Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check, and selected candidates with disabilities may be requested to submit supporting documentation in relation to their disability confidentially.

UNICEF appointments are subject to medical clearance.  Issuance of a visa by the host country of the duty station is required for IP positions and will be facilitated by UNICEF. Appointments may also be subject to inoculation (vaccination) requirements, including against SARS-CoV-2 (Covid). Should you be selected for a position with UNICEF, you either must be inoculated as required or receive a medical exemption from the relevant department of the UN. Otherwise, the selection will be canceled.

Remarks:  

As per Article 101, paragraph 3, of the Charter of the United Nations, the paramount consideration in the employment of the staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity.

UNICEF is committed to fostering an inclusive, representative, and welcoming workforce. For this position, eligible and suitable candidates with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Government employees who are considered for employment with UNICEF are normally required to resign from their government positions before taking up an assignment with UNICEF. UNICEF reserves the right to withdraw an offer of appointment, without compensation, if a visa or medical clearance is not obtained, or necessary inoculation requirements are not met, within a reasonable period for any reason. 

UNICEF does not charge a processing fee at any stage of its recruitment, selection, and hiring processes (i.e., application stage, interview stage, validation stage, or appointment and training). UNICEF will not ask for applicants’ bank account information.

Humanitarian action is a cross-cutting priority within UNICEF’s Strategic Plan. UNICEF is committed to stay and deliver in humanitarian contexts. Therefore, all staff, at all levels across all functional areas, can be called upon to be deployed to support humanitarian response, contributing to both strengthening resilience of communities and capacity of national authorities.

All UNICEF positions are advertised, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process. An internal candidate performing at the level of the post in the relevant functional area, or an internal/external candidate in the corresponding Talent Group, may be selected, if suitable for the post, without assessment of other candidates.

Additional information about working for UNICEF can be found here.