Researcher at eThekwini Municipality

 RESEARCHER 22000184

• Supports the Senior Manager in the development of economic development policies and strategies, ensuring alignment between current policies, intent, and practical application.
• Assists in conducting feasibility studies and pilot test cases to support the implementation of research.
• Participates in policy audits to assess departmental compliance with policy requirements.
• Develops comprehensive research reports detailing methodologies, findings, and recommendations.
• Prepares presentations, articles, and knowledge materials to communicate research outcomes to economic stakeholders.
• Coordinates written submissions for inclusion in local, provincial, and national policy and strategy development processes, as guided by the Senior Manager.
• Assists in the conceptual design of projects and programmes based on feasibility assessments.
• Handles administrative tasks, reporting, and recordkeeping related to project and research activities.

 RESEARCH ADVISOR 22000184B

• Utilises analytical tools to evaluate policy effectiveness, identify behavioural impacts, and detect risks or bottlenecks from feedback.
• Conducts feasibility assessments and pilot testing to support the implementation of research findings.
• Leads research into key economic sectors and socio-economic issues, facilitating structured engagements with stakeholders across all spheres of government, academia, and NGOs.
• Produces and presents research papers, articles, and insights to inform economic stakeholders and contribute to conferences and relevant platforms.
• Participates in research and developmental processes to inform and support the formulation of policy and strategy frameworks, under the guidance of the Senior Manager.
• Manages project deliverables, schedules, and financial resources, ensuring adherence to timelines and quality standards.
• Represents the Department in external forums, contributing to policy, study, and strategy development discussions.
• Conducts feasibility studies and develops conceptual designs to support the formulation of new projects and programmes, derived from research and strategic objectives.
• Provides advisory support during policy and strategy review processes and develops project schedules with clear milestones and deliverables.
• Oversees administrative tasks, reporting, and recordkeeping to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.

SENIOR RESEARCH ADVISOR 22000184C

• Leads and oversees feasibility studies and pilot projects to support research-driven initiatives.
• Consults with stakeholders across government and the private sector to inform study design and communicate outcomes.
• Conducts policy audits to assess departmental compliance, ensuring alignment with policy objectives and relevant resolutions.
• Directs research on economic sectors and socio-economic issues, facilitating structured engagements with internal and external stakeholders, including academia and NGOs.
• Produces high-quality research papers and reports, provides expert insight, and ensures quality control of outputs from research staff.
• Develops policy and strategy frameworks, validating content to ensure it meets programme implementation needs.
• Designs monitoring and evaluation tools to assess the impact and effectiveness of implemented policies and strategies.
• Manages projects related to policy and strategy development, including budgeting and resource management.
• Represents the Unit in external forums and contributes to policy and strategy discussions.
• Conducts feasibility assessments to inform project and programme design, and communicates findings to relevant stakeholders.
• Shares insights on short-, medium-, and long-term objectives, along with practical constraints and applications.
• Provides leadership and guidance to junior research staff and reports to the Senior Manager.
• Advises on policy/strategy development and review, manages project milestones and resources, and oversees the work of consultants and service providers.
• Handles administrative tasks, reporting, and recordkeeping to support efficient operations.

Essential Requirements

RESEARCHER 22000186

• Honours Degree (NQF Level 8) or equivalent in Economics or Development Economics.
• Valid motor vehicle driving license.
• 3 years relevant experience participating in Economic Policy & Strategy Development
• Computer Literacy.

 RESEARCH ADVISOR 22000184B

• Honours Degree (NQF Level 8) or equivalent in Economics or Development Economics.
• Valid motor vehicle driving license.
• 4 years relevant experience participating in Economic Policy & Strategy Development.
• Computer Literacy.

SENIOR RESEARCH ADVISOR 22000184C

• Master’s degree (NQF Level 9) in Economics or Development Economics.
• Valid motor vehicle driving license.
• 5 years relevant experience participating in Economic Policy & Strategy Development.
• Computer Literacy.

Preferred Requirements

RESEARCHER 22000186

• Master’s Degree (NQF Level 9) in Economics or Economic Development.
•  4 years relevant experience participating in Economic Policy & Strategy Development.

 RESEARCH ADVISOR 22000184B

• Master’s Degree (NQF Level 9) in Economics or Economic Development.
• 5 years relevant experience participating in Economic Policy & Strategy Development.

SENIOR RESEARCHER ADVISOR 22000184C

• 6 years relevant experience participating in Economic Policy & Strategy Development.