International Consultant - Programme Policy Officer (Data Scientist)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of extreme weather. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to ensure effective humanitarian assistance reaches millions of people globally. WFP is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization has received numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, recognizing its efforts in combating hunger and promoting security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security.

Job Overview:
The International Consultant - Programme Policy Officer (scientist" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Data Scientist) position at WFP is designed to enhance the evidence agenda of the Country Office through innovative data analysis and the development of artificial intelligence models tailored to food security and vulnerability. The consultant will play a crucial role in improving the efficiency of Vulnerability Analysis and Mapping (VAM) analysis, enabling more precise design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and targeting. This role requires a strong background in data science, statistical analysis, and geospatial visualization, as well as the ability to collaborate with various stakeholders to ensure that the data-driven insights lead to effective humanitarian interventions. The consultant will be expected to contribute to the development of models that estimate malnutrition levels and road disruptions, as well as coordinate technical analyses to improve early warning systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key tasks, including: collaborating with the VAME GIS officer to maintain and update the VAME geospatial visualization platform (AF Pulse); designing and operationalizing probability models to estimate road disruptions and malnutrition levels; integrating automated models into AF Pulse for real-time disaster impact analysis; proposing a roadmap for model replication and adaptation in priority countries; developing geographical-level targeting criteria for emergency assistance and social protection interventions; coordinating technical analyses and recommendations to enhance early warning systems; and performing other related tasks as required by the VAME team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in social science, economics, statistics, food security, GIS, data science, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 3 years of experience in research, data analysis, modeling (including AI model training), needs assessments, and/or data and geospatial visualization. Proficiency in SQL databases and experience with geospatial information platforms are essential, along with strong analytical and communication skills to engage diverse audiences effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as social science, economics, statistics, food security, GIS, or data science. A Master’s degree in a related discipline is considered an advantage, as it demonstrates a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex data analysis and modeling techniques.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in research, data analysis, and modeling, particularly in the context of humanitarian assistance and food security. Candidates should have hands-on experience with AI model training and geospatial visualization, as well as a proven track record of conducting needs assessments and developing analytical products that inform decision-making processes.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional UN languages is desirable, as it enhances communication with diverse stakeholders and contributes to a more inclusive work environment.

Additional Notes:
This is an International Consultant Level I position based in Kabul, Afghanistan, with a contract duration of 6 months, which may be extended based on performance and organizational needs. The role is full-time and offers an attractive compensation package, details of which can be found in the Terms and Conditions section of the vacancy announcement. WFP is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. All applications must be submitted through the online recruiting system, and candidates are advised to ensure their profiles are complete and accurate before applying.