NATO Section Head / Sr. Staff Officer AI Capability Development & Governance

NATO Section Head / Sr. Staff Officer AI Capability Development & Governance

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)

August 4, 2026August 25, 2026NorfolkUnited States
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is NATO, which stands for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Established in 1949, NATO is a military alliance of 31 member countries from North America and Europe. Its mission is to ensure the collective defense and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of its member states, promoting peace and stability in the region. NATO operates in various domains, including political, military, and economic, and has a workforce of approximately 20,000 employees. The organization is involved in numerous operations and missions worldwide, focusing on crisis management, cooperative security, and collective defense.

Job Overview:
The position of Section Head for AI Capability Development and Governance is a pivotal role within NATO's Capability Development Directorate (CAPDEV). The incumbent will be responsible for leading NATO's data and AI strategies, ensuring they align with military operational needs and strategic priorities. This role involves translating policy into actionable implementation plans and governance frameworks, as well as participating in NATO working groups. The incumbent will provide expert guidance on AI governance, contributing to the development of Responsible AI policies. The position requires collaboration with various NATO stakeholders to enhance NATO's global AI and digital transformation efforts, ensuring that AI integration into NATO's capability development lifecycle is strategically coherent and aligned with NATO's broader goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Section Head include leading and mentoring a diverse team, managing resources effectively, and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the AI Capability Development and Governance Section. The incumbent will develop Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to monitor section effectiveness, provide thought leadership on AI transformation plans, and analyze legislative changes impacting NATO AI initiatives. They will coordinate input with NATO HQ and Military Authorities for policy development, draft strategic policy papers, and support the development of data science and AI capabilities across NATO. The role also involves creating dashboards and reports for decision-making, staying updated on advancements in data science and AI, and undertaking additional tasks as assigned by leadership.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in information technology, information systems engineering, business administration, quality engineering, or a related discipline, along with 6 years of relevant experience. Alternatively, candidates with higher secondary education and advanced vocational training leading to professional accreditation, combined with 6 years of post-related experience and 2 years of function-related experience, will also be considered. Experience in managing digital technologies such as AI, cloud computing, and data analytics within defense or international organizations is essential. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to create and execute strategic plans, develop and implement policies for Data Science and AI, and possess exceptional analytical and communication skills in English.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in a relevant field such as information technology, information systems engineering, or business administration. Candidates with advanced vocational training leading to professional qualifications in these disciplines are also eligible. A strong foundation in data science, AI methodologies, and military capability development processes is advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of experience in applying and managing digital technologies within defense, security, or international organizations. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in leading complex initiatives, developing strategic plans, and managing resources effectively. Familiarity with NATO's organizational structure and prior experience working with NATO data or policies is highly desirable.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a required Standard Language Proficiency (SLP) level of 3333 in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Knowledge of French at the same proficiency level is considered desirable, enhancing communication within the multinational environment of NATO.

Additional Notes:
This position is linked to a specific NATO project and is for a limited duration of three years. The successful applicant will be required to apply for and receive a NATO SECRET Security Clearance prior to final confirmation of contract and commencement of employment. The role may involve extended hours and travel as part of the appointment. NATO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all member nations and particularly welcoming women to apply. Candidates should note that applications prepared using generative AI tools will be rejected, and particular attention should be given to the Education and Experience sections of the application.
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