Advisory Technical Group Expert

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Advisory Technical Group Expert
Location: Remote Work
Country: Remote
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is an operational arm of the United Nations, established to support the successful implementation of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects globally. UNOPS operates in various countries, focusing on enhancing the effectiveness of its partners' projects. The organization is committed to improving lives through assistive technology, particularly through its partnership with ATscale, the Global Partnership for Assistive Technology, which aims to ensure that by 2030, an additional 500 million people in low- and middle-income countries gain access to essential assistive technology. UNOPS values diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from various backgrounds to apply, particularly those with lived experiences of disability or using assistive technology.

Job Overview:
The position of Advisory Technical Group Expert involves providing strategic and technical advice to ATscale, particularly in the area of wheelchairs and mobility products. The role requires collaboration with a diverse group of technical experts to address gaps in assistive technology and to develop strategies that align with ATscale's goals. The incumbents will be responsible for advising on priority setting, identifying solutions for the assistive technology sector, and contributing to the development of ATscale's annual work plan. The role emphasizes the importance of accessibility and affordability of assistive technology, aiming to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities and enhance their participation in society. The incumbents will work on a retainer contract basis, with the workload varying according to ATscale's needs, and may involve travel for in-person meetings or reviews.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Advisory Technical Group Expert include:

• Providing strategic and technical advice on priority setting in alignment with ATscale’s overall goals and strategy.
• Identifying gaps in the assistive technology sector and proposing solutions to address them.
• Developing sector-wide strategies that are adaptable and responsive to changing needs.
• Strengthening the capacity of country implementing partners in specific thematic areas related to assistive technology.
• Contributing to the development of ATscale’s annual work plan and scoping possible interventions.
• Participating in consultative meetings with specialized organizations in the domain of assistive technology.
• Conducting thorough evaluations of proposals received, ensuring alignment with ATscale’s priorities and inclusion of relevant stakeholders.
• Reviewing and endorsing reports from implementing partners and providing guidance as needed.
• Undertaking additional related duties as required, which may include travel for meetings or reviews.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the position include:

• An advanced degree (Master's or above) in rehabilitation fields such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or related fields, or a Bachelor's degree with additional relevant work experience.
• A minimum of 7 years of combined experience in assistive technology, public health, rehabilitation, or related fields.
• Proven experience in wheelchair and mobility-related assistive products policies and services, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
• Demonstrated ability to provide technical advice for planning and monitoring assistive technology programs.
• Familiarity with disability rights and inclusion, as well as knowledge of international frameworks related to assistive technology.
• Proficiency in technical writing and documentation, with a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals being desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (Master's or above) in fields related to rehabilitation, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or engineering related to mobility products. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree in these fields combined with an additional 2 years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of combined experience in assistive technology, particularly in public health, rehabilitation, or disability sectors. Experience working in low-resource settings and engaging with government stakeholders in low- and middle-income countries is essential. Familiarity with large-scale health or education programs and a strong publication record in assistive technology are also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory. A working knowledge of other UN languages is considered an advantage, enhancing communication and collaboration in a diverse environment.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA) on a retainer basis, with an initial duration of one year, subject to renewal based on performance and funding availability. The position is classified at the ICS-11 level. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups, including women and individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities to ensure equal participation in the recruitment process and workplace.