World Bank DIME Recruitment 2026: High-Paying Global Research Jobs, Field Coordinator Roles and Data Science Opportunities

The Development Impact (DIME) department at the World Bank has officially launched its Spring 2026 recruitment drive, opening doors for highly skilled professionals worldwide. This is a major global hiring initiative targeting Research Assistants, Field Coordinators, and Data Science & Architecture Analysts to support cutting-edge impact evaluation projects across multiple countries.

If you are looking to build a career in international development, data science, or policy research, this opportunity provides a direct pathway to work on high-impact global projects aimed at reducing poverty and improving livelihoods.

Overview of the Opportunity

The World Bank’s Development Impact (DIME) unit is hiring 9 consultants across multiple roles and projects globally. These professionals will collaborate with leading researchers and policy experts to design, implement, and analyze impact evaluations.

The positions span across:

• Research Assistants (RA)
• Field Coordinators (FC)
• Data Science and Architecture Analysts

These roles are structured as Short-Term Consultant (STC) contracts, with durations varying by project.

What is DIME and Why It Matters

DIME is a research department within the World Bank focused on generating high-quality data and evidence to improve development outcomes. Their work supports governments and institutions by:

• Designing evidence-based policies
• Running impact evaluations across sectors
• Building data systems for decision-making

Key sectors include:

• Agriculture
• Governance
• Climate Change
• Financial and Private Sector Development
• Social Protection and Jobs
• Infrastructure and Transport
• Fragility, Conflict, and Violence

Available Roles and Responsibilities

1. Research Assistants (RA)

Research Assistants play a critical role in data-driven research. Their responsibilities include:

• Cleaning and analyzing datasets (household surveys, administrative data, etc.)
• Writing reproducible code using tools like Stata, R, or Python
• Managing and integrating multiple data sources
• Supporting survey design and data collection processes
• Conducting literature reviews and contributing to reports
• Preparing replication files for academic research
• Participating in code reviews and ensuring research transparency
• Supporting ethical compliance and data security

Some RA roles are Pre-Doctoral positions, ideal for candidates planning to pursue a PhD.

2. Field Coordinators (FC)

Field Coordinators are responsible for managing on-the-ground implementation of research projects. Their duties include:

• Coordinating between researchers, government officials, and local stakeholders
• Supervising data collection and survey teams
• Ensuring adherence to research protocols and timelines
• Monitoring intervention implementation
• Conducting quality checks and field audits
• Managing logistics (devices, survey tools, staffing)
• Providing regular progress reports
• Supporting training and capacity building in-country

These roles are typically based in the country of project implementation.

3. Data Science and Architecture Analysts

These roles focus on advanced data systems and analytics:

• Analyzing large-scale datasets
• Evaluating and improving data pipelines
• Identifying inefficiencies in data systems
• Designing integrated data architectures
• Exploring new sources of microdata
• Developing dashboards and automation tools
• Communicating insights to technical and non-technical stakeholders

Locations and Work Flexibility

• Research Assistants & Data Analysts: Remote or Washington, DC-based
• Field Coordinators: Based in project countries

Projects span multiple regions including:

• Rwanda
• India
• Ethiopia
• Romania and Bulgaria
• United States (remote-based roles)

Who Can Apply?

Eligible Candidates

This opportunity is open globally. Applicants from all countries and continents are encouraged to apply, especially those with experience in developing countries.

Required Qualifications

Educational Background

Applicants must have:

• A Master’s degree in one of the following fields:
  • Economics
  • Public Policy
  • Statistics
  • Computer Science
  • Data Science
  • Or a closely related discipline

Technical Skills

For Research Assistants & Field Coordinators:

• Advanced proficiency in Stata or R
• Experience with ODK-based survey tools (especially for FC roles)
• Knowledge of Python (preferred or required for some roles)
• Familiarity with:
  • Machine Learning
  • Natural Language Processing
  • Geospatial analysis
  • Data visualization tools

For Data Science Analysts:

• Strong expertise in Python
• Advanced knowledge of data pipelines and system architecture
• Experience with large datasets and structured databases
• Understanding of data integration and interoperability systems

Experience Requirements

• Strong background in impact evaluation and econometrics
• Experience with household survey data (for RAs)
• Field research or data collection management experience (for FCs)
• Experience working in developing countries is highly preferred
• Proven ability to work in collaborative and cross-cultural teams

Language Requirements

• Fluency in English (mandatory)
• Additional languages required for specific roles:
  • French
  • Hindi
  • Portuguese
  • Swahili
  • Amharic
  • Kinyarwanda

Soft Skills

• Strong communication skills
• Ability to work independently and in teams
• Cultural sensitivity and adaptability
• Training and capacity-building experience is an advantage

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a zipped folder containing:

1. Resume (CV)
2. Statement of Interest (SOI)
   • Maximum 500 words
   • Separate statements for each role category (RA, FC, etc.)
3. Code Samples (Optional but recommended)
   • Demonstrating proficiency in:
     • Stata
     • R
     • Python
     • ODK
   • Alternatively, provide GitHub links to specific scripts

Apply here

Selection Process

The recruitment process includes:

• Initial application screening
• Technical assessment (for shortlisted candidates)
• Interview stage

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

Contract Terms and Benefits

• Engagement as Short-Term Consultants (STC)
• Competitive compensation aligned with World Bank standards
• Opportunity to work on globally recognized research projects
• Exposure to international policy and development work

Important Notes

• All work produced belongs exclusively to the World Bank
• Candidates must not publish project-related materials without permission
• Applications are treated with strict confidentiality
• The World Bank strongly encourages diversity and inclusion

Why You Should Apply

This is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to:

• Work on impactful global development challenges
• Collaborate with top researchers and institutions
• Gain experience in rigorous policy evaluation
• Strengthen your career in international development and data science

Application Deadline

Wednesday, 29th April 2026 (1:00 PM EDT)

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