Introduction
The United Nations has released an important international job opportunity for experienced professionals in the field of evaluation and programme analysis. The post of Evaluation Officer (P-4) has been announced under the United Nations Sustainable Development Group (UNSDG) – System-Wide Evaluation Office (SWEO). This position is based in New York and is offered as a temporary appointment.
This role is ideal for professionals with strong experience in international project evaluation, data analysis, team leadership, and policy assessment. Working at a P-4 level means the candidate will hold a senior professional position with significant responsibility and global exposure within the UN system.
This article provides complete details including job profile, responsibilities, eligibility criteria, education, experience, skills, selection process, and application tips.
Organization & Department Overview
The position is located at the United Nations Sustainable Development Group – System-Wide Evaluation Office (SWEO) at UN Headquarters. The office plays a crucial role in assessing the effectiveness, relevance, and impact of UN system-wide programmes and initiatives.
The Evaluation Officer will work closely with senior UN leadership and report directly to the Executive Director / Evaluation Officer of UN SWEO. The role contributes directly to improving accountability, transparency, and learning across the UN system.
Post Details at a Glance
- Post Name: Evaluation Officer
- Job Level: P-4 (Professional & Higher Category)
- Duty Station: New York, USA
- Job Network: Management and Administration
- Job Family: Management and Analysis
- Job Opening ID: 270277
- Type of Appointment: Temporary (3 months)
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
Key Responsibilities & Job Role
As an Evaluation Officer (P-4), the selected candidate will act as Evaluation Manager or Team Leader for major UN evaluations. The responsibilities include:
1. Evaluation Leadership
- Lead system-wide evaluations from planning to final reporting
- Ensure proper scoping, design, data collection, analysis, and reporting
- Maintain high standards of independence, credibility, and impartiality
2. Team & Project Management
- Manage teams of evaluation staff and external consultants
- Coordinate tasks, timelines, and deliverables
- Oversee evaluation budgets, financial reports, and progress updates
3. Research & Data Analysis
- Collect and analyze qualitative and quantitative data
- Identify trends and insights using data visualization tools
- Prepare graphs, charts, tables, and analytical reports
4. Reporting & Communication
- Draft inception papers, Terms of Reference (ToR), and evaluation reports
- Integrate feedback from stakeholders and clients
- Present evaluation findings to:
- Executive Director
- Executive Office of the Secretary-General
- UN agencies and partners
5. Capacity Building & Support
- Support training workshops and seminars
- Develop evaluation guidance for UN entities
- Provide substantive input to meetings and conferences
6. Follow-Up & Learning
- Track implementation of evaluation recommendations
- Assess outcomes and organizational learning
- Strengthen efficiency and effectiveness of the evaluation function
Required Competencies
Professionalism
- Strong knowledge of international evaluation standards and methodologies
- Understanding of UN system evaluation practices
- Ability to produce and review high-quality evaluation reports
- Strong analytical and decision-making skills
- Commitment to gender equality and inclusiveness
Teamwork
- Ability to work collaboratively in multicultural teams
- Respect diverse perspectives and expertise
- Share responsibility and credit for results
Creativity
- Think innovatively to improve evaluation practices
- Promote new ideas and approaches
- Adapt to complex and evolving work environments
Educational Qualification
To be eligible, candidates must have:
- Master’s Degree (or equivalent) in:
- Programme Evaluation
- Public Administration
- Social Sciences
- International Development
- Economics
- Law
- Business Administration
- International Affairs
- or related fields
OR
- A Bachelor’s Degree with two additional years of relevant professional experience may be accepted in lieu of a Master’s degree.
Work Experience Requirements
- Minimum 7 years of progressively responsible experience in:
- Evaluation of international projects and programmes
- Mandatory Experience:
- Leading evaluations
- Managing evaluation teams and consultants
- Using qualitative and quantitative evaluation methodologies
- Desirable Experience:
- Work experience in an international organization
- At least 2 years in data analytics or related fields
Language Requirements
- English: Required (UN Level III – Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening)
- French: Desirable (UN Level II)
Selection Process
The selection process may include:
- Application screening
- Assessment exercise (written or analytical)
- Competency-based interview
- Reference checks
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the United Nations.
Special Notice (Important Points)
- This is a temporary position for 3 months
- Selection does not guarantee future employment with the UN
- Some restrictions may apply to:
- Internal candidates
- Duty-station-based candidates
- UN retirees above the mandatory retirement age may be considered under exceptional circumstances
- The UN promotes geographical diversity, gender equality, and inclusion
- No application or recruitment fees are charged at any stage
Why This Job Is Important
This role directly influences how the UN evaluates its global programmes and policies. The Evaluation Officer ensures that development initiatives are effective, accountable, and aligned with global goals such as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Professionals selected for this role gain:
- International exposure
- Senior-level UN experience
- Opportunity to influence global decision-making
- Strong career value in evaluation and development sectors
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply online through the UN Careers Portal (Inspira) before the deadline. Applicants should ensure:
- Complete and accurate application details
- Clear demonstration of evaluation leadership experience
- Strong evidence of analytical and reporting skills
Late or incomplete applications are not accepted.
Final Words
The UN Evaluation Officer (P-4) Recruitment 2026 is a prestigious opportunity for experienced evaluation professionals who wish to work at the highest international level. If you have a strong background in evaluation, data analysis, and team leadership, this role can significantly advance your global career.
Apply early, prepare well, and ensure your profile reflects both technical expertise and commitment to UN values.