Research Officer (SOG/ST 6)

Job Purpose

Under the supervision of the Chief Research Officer, the Research Officer is responsible for providing the Ministry with the capability to conduct detailed demand-driven research studies to inform policy recommendations. The officer will assist with research, by analyzing and compiling data, preparing relevant reports, briefs and documents that include evidence-based evaluations, pertinent advice and recommendations, to support the efforts of the Strategic Planning and Policy Services Division. 

Key Responsibilities

Management/Administrative: 

• Participates in meetings and workshops, on strategic planning and policy issues;
• Represents the Ministry on various committees, councils, conferences, workshops, etc.;
• Edits and proofreads documents and prepares research papers; 
• Prepares draft annual Work Plan of research studies to be conducted, for consideration;
• Assists in the preparation of various reports, as needed. 

Technical and Professional: 

• Co-ordinates all research activities and oversees the implementation of research strategies for the Ministry; 
• Identifies topical/priority areas for research and presents skeletal outlines for considerations; 
• Plays the lead role in the Draft Research Programme and participates in the implementation of these programmes for the Ministry; 
• Conducts approved research studies; 
• Prepares detailed Terms of Reference for approved research studies; 
• Establishes an in-house Research Repository/Databank to house all research studies undertaken by the Ministry; 
• Reviews and comments on reports, proposals, policy papers and other documents, as assigned; 
• Assists in the preparation of Executive Summaries and abstract documents;
• Assists with the assessment of plans from Departments and Agencies for conformity with established policies, directives and overall strategic objectives; 
• Compiles and analyses data to strengthen the capacity of statistical databases;
• Conducts background checks, to ensure credibility and reliability of reports etc.;
• Conducts and assists with data collection, entry, reduction and analysis for a range of studies and researches; 
• Assists in the development of macro-economic modelling/research capabilities, to facilitate monitoring/recommendations for the Sectors under the Ministry’s portfolio;
• Conducts research to provide data for inclusion in documents, such as draft Bills, Cabinet Submissions, Development Plans, etc.; 
• Liaises with members of the public and other Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies, to obtain various types of information; 
• Collaborates in the development of data collection tools, tracking log frame indicators, undertaking monitoring, evaluation and analysing their data and information, and consolidating information for reporting and tracking progress on programmes and projects; 
• Keeps abreast of trends and changes in planning and policy development and makes recommendations for their adoption, where necessary, to enhance the Ministry’s Planning and Policy Development functions; 
• Conducts field investigations on energy, telecommunications and transport related matters, and prepare reports; 
• Performs other related duties and responsibilities as may be determined from time to time. 

Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

Technical: 

• Excellent quantitative skills 
• Ability to design and conduct research studies 
• Knowledge and skills in relevant computer software used in research work
• Good data analysis and presentation skills 

Core: 

• Excellent supervisory skills 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills 
• Excellent planning and organizing skills 
• Good problem-solving and decision-making skills 
• Teamwork and cooperation 
• Good interpersonal skills 
• Ability to exercise initiative 
• Adaptability 

Minimum Required Qualification and Experience

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics, Management or Public Administration;
• Three (3) years working experience in Research. 

Special Conditions Associated with the Job

• May be required to work extended working hours. 
• Will be required to travel islandwide.

Applications should include the names and positions of two (2) senior persons who can provide character and work-related references. 

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.