National Consultant: Census Data Analysis and Reporting Expert, Freetown

Job Title and Description

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.

Purpose of Consultancy

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.

Responsibilities

• Conduct descriptive and inferential statistical analysis

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

A. Data Analysis

• Work with cleaned datasets to produce analytical tables
• Generate key demographic and socio-economic indicators
• Segment data by geographic, demographic, and socio-economic variables
• Support the preparation of the initial pilot census report

B. Tabulation and Outputs

• Develop charts, graphs, and infographics
• Support validation of tabulated outputs for consistency
• Contribute to policy briefs and summary reports

C. Report Writing

• Participate in and support training of Stats SL staff
• Contribute to thematic reports (e.g. population structure, fertility, migration)
• Ensure outputs align with UN and national reporting standards
• Work closely with the Data Processing Consultant

D. Data Visualization

• Support clear communication of findings

E. Policy-Relevant Outputs

• Highlight key findings relevant to national development priorities

F. Capacity Building

• Support knowledge transfer on: Data analysis techniques
• Report writing
• Data visualization

G. Collaboration

• Provide feedback on data quality issues
• Participate in technical working sessions and dissemination activities

Expected Deliverables:

• Inception report & analysis plan - Week 2 - 1st May 2026
• Analytical framework & indicators - Month 1 - 8th May 2026
• Training Sessions Conducted - Month 1 - 8th May 2026
• Draft statistical tables and outputs - Month 2 - 19th June 2026
• Draft Initial pilot census report - Month 3 - 19th July 2026
• Data visualizations and infographics - Month 3 - 19th July 2026
• Final Census analytical report - End of Month 3- 19th July 2026

Requirements and Qualifications

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

How to Apply

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.

Contract Type and Duration

3 months (20th April - 19th July 2026)

Payment Schedule

• Inception report & analysis plan - 30%
• Draft outputs (tables + report inputs) - 40%
• Final deliverables - 30%

Reporting Line

• Technical oversight: UNFPA
• Works closely with the National Census Coordinator, CTA, and Data Processing