National Assistive Technology (AT) Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF is known for its passionate culture and commitment to making a difference in the lives of children and communities worldwide. The organization employs a large workforce dedicated to various initiatives aimed at improving child welfare and education.

Job Overview:
The National Assistive Technology (AT) Coordinator will play a crucial role in the implementation of the AT-scale supported project titled 'Unlock Healthy Learning in the Pacific.' This project aims to improve access to assistive technology and related rehabilitation services for school-aged children across three Pacific Island countries: FSM, Kiribati, and Vanuatu. The coordinator will be responsible for the daily coordination of AT-related activities within the FSM government system, working closely with various stakeholders, including the National Department of Education and state-level AT focal points. The position requires a hands-on approach to administrative and technical tasks, ensuring effective communication and coordination among all parties involved in the project. The coordinator will also assist in developing a national Communications Plan to enhance program visibility and support the implementation of assistive technology systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National AT Coordinator will undertake several key responsibilities, including:

• Coordination, Communication, and Implementation: - Assist in establishing the national AT governance/steering committee and serve as its secretariat. - Schedule meetings and workshops with stakeholders to ensure effective participation. - Act as a communication focal point, facilitating information flow among various stakeholders, including government departments and UNICEF teams. - Develop a national Communications Plan to increase program visibility. - Coordinate with the ATscale Secretariat and regional experts for effective project implementation. - Manage procurement of AT products and logistical arrangements for screenings. - Organize and manage all program-related documentation. - Assist with report review and prepare updates for implementing partners.
• Strategic and Technical Support: - Provide technical and administrative support to the National AT steering committee. - Finalize multi-year and annual work plans, workforce capacity development plans, and risk management plans. - Ensure compliance with ATscale reporting requirements. - Deliver technical training to service providers and develop clinical standards. - Collaborate with partners to develop national AT policy briefs and facilitate policy discussions. - Contribute to the integration of AT into national health and education strategies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in health, public health, inclusive education, or a related field. They should have at least 5 years of professional experience in public health or a related field, with technical expertise in health systems, public health, and inclusive education. Experience in program or project support, particularly in the field of disability, is preferred. Strong organizational, administrative, and communication skills are essential, along with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders. Familiarity with UN agencies is an asset, and candidates should demonstrate strong interpersonal, teamwork, and organizational skills. Proficiency in computer skills, including word processing and spreadsheets, is required, along with solid analytical, negotiating, communication, advocacy, and report writing skills.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in health, public health, inclusive education, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of public health systems and inclusive education practices, which are critical for the successful implementation of assistive technology initiatives.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in public health or a related field. This experience should include technical expertise in health systems and public health, as well as familiarity with inclusive education and disability sectors. Experience in program or project support, particularly in disability-related initiatives, is highly desirable. The role requires strong organizational and administrative skills, as well as the ability to effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of a local language is highly desired, as it can facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of program implementation.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time consultancy role focused on the implementation of the AT-scale supported project. Candidates are required to submit a separate financial offer along with their application, detailing the consultancy fee, travel expenses, and miscellaneous costs such as health insurance and communications. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those with disabilities. The organization offers a range of benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and appointments are subject to medical clearance and visa requirements.