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For every child, the right to peace

The Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) is an international household survey program developed and supported by UNICEF. It is recognized as the global 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 As a result, the data on many of these indicators are now outdated, creating a significant data gap for national monitoring and decision-making.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.

In MICS Armenia 2026, data collection will be conducted primarily using Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI). Data will be collected through CSPro-based CAPI applications, which incorporate standardized questionnaires, validation rules, skip patterns, and consistency checks in line with MICS global standards. CSPro will also be used for secondary editing, data validation, and generation of output files, which will then be transferred to SPSS for the creation of analysis datasets, application of sampling weights, computation of composite indicators, and production of tabulations.

Given the scale and complexity of MICS, robust and well-coordinated data processing is essential to ensure data quality, internal consistency, and compliance with MICS global standards. The purpose of this assignment is to engage two National Data Processing Consultants (MICS) to work with Armstat and UNICEF throughout the planning, implementation, and reporting phases of the survey, including customization and management of CSPro-based data collection and processing systems, data quality control, and preparation of anonymized datasets for analysis and dissemination. Working closely with Armstat staff, survey methodologists, and UNICEF, the Consultant will ensure that all data processing procedures are implemented following MICS standards and result in reliable, internationally comparable evidence to inform policies and programmes for children and women.

How can you make a difference? 

Working closely with ArmStat consultant, the National Data Processing (DP) Consultant will work under the close coordination and technical guidance of UNICEF, to ensure the end-to-end customization, implementation, and management of MICS data processing systems throughout the survey lifecycle, from preparation and testing through fieldwork support, data processing, and final dataset production. 

Specific tasks included in the scope of work of the Consultants include the following:

A. Familiarization with MICS Programme, DP Role and Archiving

The Consultant will familiarize themselves with MICS programme and related materials, working closely with UNICEF MICS focal points and personnel. The Consultants will participate in the MICS Data Processing Workshop, when organized.

The Consultant will participate in country survey team meetings, Steering Committee and Technical Committee meetings as required to both familiarize themselves with survey, as well as to contribute to the work considering their role. The Consultant will participate and contribute to questionnaire customization discussions, ensuring considerations of CAPI and tabulation plan.

The Consultants will also familiarize themselves with and apply agreed procedures for survey data file anonymization in accordance with international standards, ensuring that no individual respondent, household, or cluster location can be identified in datasets prepared for analysis, reporting, archiving, or dissemination.

The Consultant will maintain an archive of all data processing–related deliverables prepared throughout the implementation of MICS, in line with agreed version-control and archiving practices.

B. MICS CAPI Customization, Data Transfer Systems

The Consultants will customize, configure, and test the MICS data processing package and CSPro-based CAPI applications, including dictionaries, forms, logic, question text files, system configuration files, secondary editing programmes, and export programmes. Customization and testing will be carried out iteratively at key stages of the survey cycle:

• Following questionnaire pre-test (which Consultants will participate in), based on the results of the activity and changes introduced, though process may start earlier.
• Following the CAPI test, based on the findings of the activity and lessons learned.
• Prior to main fieldwork, incorporating issues identified during training field exercises.
• Based on feedback from Global MICS Data Processing (DP) experts, with changes tracked and documented using the official DP review file.

The Consultant will also customize validation rules and error messages embedded in the CAPI application.

The Consultant will set up and configure the survey data transfer server either by doing configuration using the project.ifss file provided by the MICS Headquarters Data Processing team, if the IFSS server is used, or in consultation with the HQ team, if alternative is required. The Consultant will test and validate end-to-end data transfer procedures for data from interviewer devices to supervisor devices, and from supervisor devices to the Central Office computer, and for update package distribution: from the IFSS server/Central Office computer to supervisor devices and via Bluetooth on interviewer devices.  

C. Listing and Mapping–Related Data Processing Support

The Consultants will provide technical support related to data processing and quality assurance for Listing and Mapping (L&M) activities, in close coordination with ArmStat technical teams, survey methodologists, and the MICS GIS consultant(s).

This will include participation in Listing and Mapping validation, testing, and training activities, including training field exercises and pilots, with technical inputs provided on data processing requirements, data quality checks, and integration with overall survey data processing workflows.

The Consultants will customize, test, and maintain the application for listing and mapping data entry, ensuring consistency with MICS standards and compatibility with downstream data processing and analysis requirements. They will support data editing, validation, and quality checks of listing and mapping data, and prepare required data processing and analysis outputs and files to support sampling, fieldwork implementation, and subsequent survey stages.

Listing and mapping–related data processing support will be documented and archived in line with agreed procedures. As needed, this task may also involve additional technical support related to data processing, analysis, and preparation of outputs linked to listing and mapping activities to ensure their effective integration into the overall MICS survey implementation.

D. Data Processing Frameworks, QA Tools, and Preparatory Updates

The Consultants will customize and finalize key data processing frameworks and quality assurance tools in close collaboration with survey methodologists. This will include customization of the SPSS syntaxes for Fieldcheck (FCT) tables, based on the FCT tabulation plan, and CAPI-related sections of the Instructions for Supervisors, based on the approved questionnaires, CAPI workflows.

The Consultants will provide inputs for the Data Editing Guidelines from data processing perspectives.

The Consultants will prepare and update the Sample files (cluster and household) and staff file for each fieldwork activity and generate and maintain the corresponding data files (clusters.dat, households.dat, team.dat), ensuring accurate deployment of the sample and fieldwork teams across survey phases.

E. Equipment Readiness and Field IT Support (Coordination and Oversight)

The Consultants will coordinate, oversee and support set-up and checking of equipment and devices used for data collection activities, including the CAPI test, training field practice, pilot, and main fieldwork. In line with MICS recommendations and guidance provided during the Data Processing Workshop, the Consultants will support and oversee device configuration for interviewers, supervisors, and Central Office use.

The Consultants will oversee, verify and support troubleshooting of device connectivity and functionality, including GPRS receivers and Bluetooth capabilities, and will work closely with ArmStat technical staff and field teams to oversee the process of ensuring that technical issues related to equipment and device readiness are identified and addressed in a timely manner.

F. Trainings, Pilots, and Preparatory Work for Main Fieldwork

The Consultant will participate in all MICS fieldwork-related trainings and preparatory activities, either during the whole period or part of it. This includes participation in:

• Listing and Mapping Testing, including field exercises and testing of listing and mapping procedures.
• Listing and Mapping Training and Field test, including participation in classroom sessions and field exercise.
• Questionnaire Pre-test Training and Field Pre-test, including participation in classroom sessions and field implementation of the pre-test to be familiar with questionnaires.
• CAPI Test Training and CAPI Testing, including field-based testing of the CAPI application and data transmission workflows.
• Main Fieldwork Training, including participation in classroom sessions and field practice prior to the start of main data collection.

The Consultants will organize and conduct CAPI trainings, including for the CAPI test and main training, and will participate in and provide hands-on technical support during questionnaire pre-test training, CAPI training field exercises, pilots, and main fieldwork training and pilot.

Prior to each CAPI-related data collection activity, the Consultants will oversee and support technical readiness of CAPI applications by ensuring installation of the latest approved versions and clearing previously collected test or pilot data, in coordination with ArmStat technical staff. Following each data collection activity prior to main fieldwork, the Consultants will ensure proper documenting and archiving of the CAPI application and data collected, in line with agreed data management and version-control procedures.

G. Data Processing Oversight, Monitoring, and Quality Assurance During Main Fieldwork

During main fieldwork, the Consultants will provide continuous technical oversight and support to ensure proper functioning of data processing systems and the quality of incoming data. This will include administration of the Central Office application, monitoring of data synchronization and system performance, and coordination with ArmStat technical staff to address issues as they arise.

The Consultants will conduct cluster checks for all clusters to monitor data completeness, consistency, and adherence to survey protocols. In close collaboration with survey methodologists, the Consultants will oversee and support secondary editing activities for all clusters, contributing to timely identification and resolution of data quality issues during fieldwork.

The Consultants will provide ongoing support to fieldwork teams with any technical issues in the field together with IT team and survey methodologists.

H. Preparation and Finalization of Analysis Datasets, Weighting, and Tabulations

Following completion of data collection and initial quality assurance activities, the Consultants will prepare and finalize datasets for analysis. This will include exporting finalized data from CSPro, importing them into SPSS, and creating standardized analysis datasets.

The Consultants will recode background variables (e.g. education, language), apply final sampling weights, and compute and append the wealth index in close collaboration with survey methodologists, using standard SPSS syntax files. The Consultants will revise CSPro data structures and SPSS syntaxes as required based on feedback from Global MICS Data Processing reviews, with all changes tracked using the DP review file.

The Consultants will customize and run SPSS tabulation syntaxes based on approved tabulation plans in several iterations following guidance and based on feedback from MICS DP team. The Consultants will produce weighted and unweighted tables, revising outputs as required to ensure accuracy and compliance with agreed standards.

The Consultants will also contribute to the Data Interpretation and Report Compilation Workshop and final report and statistical snapshots preparation, providing technical inputs related to data processing, weighting, anonymization, and tabulation outputs to support accurate interpretation and reporting of survey results.

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

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

Minimum requirements:

Education:  Advanced university degree (Master’s level or equivalent) in Statistics, Demography, Economics, Sociology, Data Science, Computer Science, Information Systems, Public Health, or another relevant quantitative or data-focused discipline.

Work Experience: 

• Minimum of five (5) years of relevant professional experience in survey data processing and management of data systems, preferably for large-scale household or social surveys.
• Demonstrated experience in end-to-end survey data processing, including data validation, quality control, preparation of analysis datasets, and production of tabulations.
• Proven experience in development, customization, or management of CAPI-based data collection applications for surveys; experience with CSPro or similar survey data collection platforms is an advantage.
• Strong proficiency in SPSS or comparable statistical software, including preparation of analysis datasets, application of sampling weights, and generation of derived variables and indicators.
• Experience working with national statistical offices, government agencies, or international organizations in survey implementation or data processing is an advantage.
• Experience supporting survey trainings, pilots, or fieldwork operations related to data collection and processing is an asset.
• Experience with data anonymization and preparation of survey datasets in line with data protection standards is an asset.

Skills  

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and data quality.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, including close coordination with a second consultant, national counterparts, and international technical experts.
• Strong communication and training skills, including the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work under time constraints and manage multiple tasks across different phases of survey implementation.

Language Requirements: 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 

[add the 8^th competency (Nurtures, leads and manages people) for a supervisory role]. 

Familiarize yourself with our competency framework and its different levels.

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 | 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. 

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.