Digital Assistive Technology Expert

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Digital Assistive Technology Expert
Location: Remote Work
Country: Remote
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
ATscale, the Global Partnership for Assistive Technology, was established to address the significant gap in access to appropriate, high-quality, and affordable assistive technology (AT) globally. The organization aims to reach 500 million more people with life-changing assistive technology by 203

• The ATscale Secretariat is hosted by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and is based in Geneva, Switzerland. ATscale operates with a mission to bring greater resources and strategic focus to the global challenge of assistive technology access, particularly for the poor and vulnerable populations who are disproportionately affected by the lack of access to AT. The organization recognizes that over 2.5 billion people worldwide require assistive technologies, and this number is projected to rise significantly due to demographic changes and the prevalence of non-communicable diseases. ATscale is committed to addressing these challenges through a cross-sector partnership that includes diverse stakeholders and emphasizes the importance of digital assistive technology in improving accessibility and inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

Job Overview:
The Digital Assistive Technology Expert will play a crucial role in providing high-quality, on-demand expertise in digital assistive technology. This position involves working closely with the ATscale Secretariat and the Advisory Technical Group, which consists of technical experts from various disciplines relevant to assistive technology. The incumbent will be responsible for offering independent advice on ATscale’s strategic priorities, annual workplans, and global interventions. The role requires a deep understanding of digital assistive technologies and their potential to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. The expert will assist in defining and scoping potential interventions, preparing technical documents, and evaluating proposals for their strategic value and impact. The position also involves engaging with stakeholders, conducting capacity-building activities, and contributing to ATscale’s Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning framework. The workload will vary based on the needs of ATscale, and the incumbent will be offered retainer contracts with no expectation of a minimum number of working days.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for delivering expertise in digital assistive technology across various areas, including:

• Providing independent advice and feedback on ATscale’s strategic priorities and annual workplans.
• Assisting in defining and scoping potential interventions, including preparing terms of reference and calls for proposals.
• Supporting the design, development, and improvement of technical documents and programs related to digital AT initiatives.
• Participating in the evaluation of proposals for their strategic value, technical soundness, and feasibility.
• Offering expert insights on trends and opportunities in the digital assistive technology sector.
• Identifying potential collaborators to foster digital AT initiatives.
• Leading or contributing to capacity-building activities such as webinars and training sessions.
• Engaging in ATscale’s Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning framework.
• Participating in virtual meetings with stakeholders to discuss initiatives and provide recommendations. 1
• Offering individual consultations and expert advice on digital AT topics as needed. 1
• Undertaking other related duties as required, including potential travel for in-person meetings or reviews.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced degree in a relevant field such as computer science, engineering, software engineering, biomedical engineering, public health, or international development. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field combined with an additional 2 years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. The candidate must have a minimum of 7 years of work experience in assistive technology and digital AT, with proven experience in the design, implementation, and scaling of digital AT solutions. Familiarity with global AT markets, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, is essential. Proficiency in technical writing and documentation is required, along with a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals or equivalent research outputs on digital AT.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in a relevant field such as computer science, engineering, software engineering, biomedical engineering, public health, or international development. A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, combined with additional relevant work experience, may also be considered acceptable. The educational background should provide a strong foundation in the principles and practices related to assistive technology and digital solutions.

Experience:
A minimum of 7 years of work experience in the combined area of assistive technology and digital AT is required. Candidates should have experience with digital assistive technologies, including hardware and software, and a proven track record in designing and implementing digital AT solutions. Familiarity with the unique challenges faced in low- and middle-income countries is essential, as is experience working with diverse stakeholders in these contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory. A working knowledge of other UN languages is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and enhance collaboration in international contexts.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA) on a retainer basis, with a contract level of ICS-1

• The initial contract duration is one year, with the possibility of renewal based on satisfactory performance and funding availability. The position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups, including individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities to ensure equal opportunities in the recruitment process and workplace.