Consultant for AI/ML Implementation in Humanitarian Supply Chain

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 strong focus on humanitarian efforts and has a large workforce dedicated to serving children and communities worldwide. The organization values diversity and inclusion, welcoming individuals from various backgrounds to contribute to its mission.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in assessing the feasibility of implementing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies within UNICEF's humanitarian supply chain operations. This position involves evaluating current data systems, identifying optimization opportunities, and developing digital prototypes that demonstrate proof of concept for AI use cases. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including warehouse managers and logistics coordinators, to ensure that the AI solutions align with operational needs and UNICEF's global AI strategy. The role requires a blend of technical expertise and strategic advisory skills to enhance the organization's capabilities in managing humanitarian supply chains effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Technical Leadership: Assess the feasibility of AI use cases, provide strategic recommendations, and conduct a comprehensive evaluation of current data systems. Identify opportunities for AI optimization and develop digital prototypes that align with UNICEF's global AI principles.
• Collaboration and Stakeholder Management: Work with engineering staff, warehouse managers, and IT units to ensure that feasibility assessments complement data system developments. Facilitate communication between technical teams and operational units.
• Deliverables: Review existing AI governance structures, conduct use case assessments, draft feasibility reports, and develop prototypes. Ensure that all deliverables are completed within specified timelines and meet the required standards.
• User Testing and Refinement: Conduct user testing of prototypes, gather feedback from stakeholders, and showcase the prototypes internally and externally.
• Final Recommendations: Produce a roadmap for scaling prototypes to production, document key risks, and create implementation estimates.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Data Science, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience is required, demonstrating expertise in AI and ML technologies. Candidates should also exhibit strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or Data Science is mandatory. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of AI technologies and their application in humanitarian contexts.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in fields related to Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or Data Science is required. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully implementing AI solutions in complex environments, preferably within humanitarian or supply chain contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset. Familiarity with local languages may also be beneficial, depending on the specific context of the work.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy position may involve flexible working hours to accommodate different time zones, as collaboration with colleagues across multiple locations is expected. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates must adhere to UNICEF's core values and principles, including a commitment to safeguarding the rights of children.