Individual Consultant for Data Science and Engineering

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories. Its mission is to ensure the rights of every child, focusing on survival, development, protection, and participation. UNICEF employs thousands of staff members globally, dedicated to improving the lives of the world's most disadvantaged children. The organization operates in various sectors, including health, education, and emergency response, striving to create a better future for every child.

Job Overview:
The position of Individual Consultant for Data Science and Engineering at UNICEF's East Asia and Pacific Regional Office (EAPRO) involves providing critical support in data science, engineering, and project management. The consultant will work closely with various teams to enhance the capabilities of the Frontier Data Lab, focusing on projects related to GAVI, climate change, emergencies, and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene). The consultant's role is pivotal in developing data analytics products, machine learning models, and AI applications that will improve decision-making and emergency response capabilities. The consultant will also be responsible for collaborating with regional teams and country offices to ensure the successful implementation of data-driven solutions that align with UNICEF's mission to advocate for children's rights and welfare.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key responsibilities, including:

• Developing data analytics products that facilitate the dissemination of data science models through interactive dashboards and actionable insights.
• Creating knowledge assets in data science, AI, and machine learning to support capacity building among UNICEF's Country Office teams and government partners.
• Collaborating with other data and technology colleagues within UNICEF to produce communications and knowledge products.
• Enhancing existing Frontier Data Lab products by working with Country Offices and the Emergency Response Team.
• Developing machine learning models for the Automated SitRep system to improve hazard forecasting and impact assessment.
• Documenting AI and machine learning pathways for strengthening the Automated SitRep architecture.
• Co-designing and deploying AI/ML applications that enhance the functionality of Automated SitRep.
• Producing technical reports summarizing system performance and user engagement. The consultant will be expected to deliver on three main tasks with specific deadlines, ensuring that all work aligns with UNICEF's strategic goals and operational needs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Applied Mathematics, or a related field. They should have a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in project management, data engineering, data management, and data analysis. Strong expertise in data visualization tools such as Tableau or PowerBI is essential, along with a proven ability to convey insights from complex datasets effectively. Experience in building conversational agents using large language models and familiarity with computer vision and deep learning models is also required. Candidates should have a background in the social, public, development, or humanitarian sectors, demonstrating the ability to work across organizational boundaries and respond to diverse needs.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes a Master's degree in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Data Science, Applied Mathematics, or an equivalent qualification. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complex data science and engineering tasks that the consultant will be responsible for, as well as for engaging with stakeholders effectively.

Experience:
The consultant is expected to have at least 10 years of professional experience in areas such as project management, data engineering, data analysis, and data visualization. This extensive experience should include a strong track record of working in the East Asia Pacific region, demonstrating the ability to manage projects and stakeholders effectively within a large organization. Previous exposure to UNICEF or similar international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) is highly desirable, as it indicates familiarity with the operational context and challenges faced in humanitarian and development work.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNICEF and for reporting purposes. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the East Asia and Pacific region would be considered an asset, enhancing the consultant's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy contract will run from 2 February to 29 May 2026, with the consultant expected to work remotely. However, there may be opportunities for duty travel to represent the Frontier Data Lab in regional workshops or meetings, subject to approval by the Regional T4D Manager. Interested candidates must submit their CV, contact information for at least three references, availability, and proposed daily professional fee in USD by the application deadline of 2 December 202

• It is important to note that individuals engaged under a consultancy contract will not be considered staff members and will not receive benefits typically provided to staff, such as leave entitlements or medical insurance coverage. The selected candidate will be responsible for their tax liabilities and ensuring that any required visa and health insurance are valid for the duration of the contract.