The Cost Research Advisor role at the International Rescue Committee (IRC) represents a strategic opportunity to influence humanitarian programming through rigorous cost analysis and evidence synthesis. Operating within Airbel, the IRC’s innovation and impact lab, and supporting the Best Use of Resources (BUR) team, this role strengthens data-driven decision-making at a time when global humanitarian funding is shrinking and needs are rapidly expanding. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC now operates in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities. Its mission focuses on restoring health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and agency to communities affected by conflict and disaster. The Cost Research Advisor contributes directly to this mission by ensuring that every dollar spent achieves measurable and meaningful impact. This hybrid, full-time role is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and functions as an individual contributor position without direct supervisory responsibilities. Role Purpose and Strategic Impact The Cost Research Advisor advances the IRC’s commitment to cost-efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and impact optimization. By generating and synthesizing cost evidence, the role enables program teams, leadership, and external stakeholders to make informed investment decisions grounded in quantitative and qualitative analysis. The advisor bridges research and implementation, translating technical findings into actionable insights that improve humanitarian program design, funding proposals, and advocacy efforts. Key Responsibilities Conduct Research and Cost Analysis The advisor leads and contributes to analytical initiatives that strengthen evidence-informed programming. Responsibilities include: Refining research agendas and cost-related learning questions in collaboration with program teams Conducting: Cost-efficiency analyses Cost-effectiveness analyses Scenario modeling exercises Developing, maintaining, and updating program-specific datasets Synthesizing internal and external cost evidence to assess: Program cost-effectiveness Contextual variables influencing efficiency Comparative intervention value Producing structured, policy-relevant research outputs Through these activities, the advisor ensures cost evidence is methodologically rigorous and strategically aligned. Provide Technical Assistance and Knowledge Translation Beyond analysis, the role emphasizes practical application of findings across the organization and sector. Key functions include: Developing actionable organizational recommendations tied to specific outcome areas Providing ongoing technical support to IRC teams and partner organizations Strengthening funding proposals by integrating cost-effectiveness evidence Repackaging research findings into accessible tools and user-friendly formats Collaborating with advocacy and policy teams to transform data into compelling external materials This integrated approach ensures research findings directly inform programming, resource allocation, and policy engagement. Cross-Cutting Contributions The advisor also supports broader institutional objectives by: Contributing to formal reporting processes Writing technical and policy-oriented documents Delivering presentations to internal and external stakeholders Supporting communications teams in disseminating evidence Required Qualifications and Experience Candidates must demonstrate a strong foundation in quantitative research and humanitarian sector engagement. Education Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in: Economics Statistics Public Policy Related analytical fields Professional Experience Minimum: 3+ years (Bachelor’s degree), or 2+ years (Master’s degree) Experience within humanitarian or development contexts Core Competencies Strong knowledge of cost analysis methodologies in low- and middle-income countries Advanced spreadsheet-based data cleaning and analysis capabilities Ability to interpret complex findings and translate them into persuasive policy narratives Excellent research writing and editing skills Experience managing coalitions or multi-stakeholder partnerships Familiarity with donor funding mechanisms Strong remote collaboration skills across cultures and time zones Fluency in English Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management tools Strongly Preferred Qualifications Proficiency in statistical analysis software Data visualization expertise Advanced quantitative and qualitative evidence synthesis Peer-reviewed publication experience Experience leveraging AI tools to enhance research quality At least two years of work experience in low- or middle-income countries Professional proficiency in French Working Environment The role operates within a global, cross-time-zone structure. Requirements include: Flexibility for occasional meetings outside regular working hours Ability to work effectively from a home or alternate workspace Up to 20% international travel, as needed This environment demands adaptability, independence, and strong virtual collaboration skills. Professional Standards and Organizational Values All IRC employees adhere to the IRC Way – Standards for Professional Conduct. Core values include: Integrity Service Equality Accountability The organization maintains strict policies on safeguarding, fiscal integrity, conflict of interest management, and protection from retaliation. Teams are encouraged to promote critical reflection, debate, power sharing, and objectivity to ensure ethical and effective service delivery. Why Join the IRC? Meaningful Work Every role contributes to measurable global impact. Whether in direct service or technical support, employees participate in evidence-driven innovation that improves outcomes for vulnerable populations. Global and Diverse Workplace The IRC’s international footprint fosters: Cross-cultural collaboration Diverse perspectives Continuous exchange of ideas Inclusive and respectful team environments Innovation and Excellence The organization is committed to: Data-driven strategies Industry-leading standards Challenging outdated norms Developing scalable, innovative solutions Community-Centered Culture The IRC promotes: Comprehensive safety and security practices Continuous learning and professional development Supportive and empathetic workplace culture Recruitment Process The IRC typically conducts a three-stage recruitment process: Initial conversation with the recruitment team Interview with the hiring manager or stakeholder Final round assessing technical expertise (often panel-based) Reference checks and background screening are conducted prior to finalizing offers. The process may vary depending on role, location, and legal requirements. Conclusion The Cost Research Advisor role offers a high-impact opportunity to shape humanitarian investment strategies through rigorous cost analysis and evidence synthesis. Positioned at the intersection of research, policy, and programming, the advisor plays a pivotal role in maximizing humanitarian impact per dollar spent. By combining analytical rigor with strategic collaboration, the position strengthens the IRC’s ability to deliver sustainable, scalable, and cost-effective solutions to communities facing crisis worldwide. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization hiring for the position. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. 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