Technical Advisor - Assistive Technology Policies and Systems (Retainer, Multiple Hires, Multiple Positions)

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Position Title: Technical Advisor - Assistive Technology Policies and Systems (Retainer, Multiple Hires, Multiple Positions)
Location: Remote
Country: Remote
Deadline Date: Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
ATscale, the Global Partnership for Assistive Technology, was developed to address the significant gap in access to appropriate, high-quality, and affordable assistive technology (AT) globally. It is a cross-sector partnership aiming 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. The organization focuses on increasing resources and strategic focus to tackle the global challenge of AT access, particularly for the poor and vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The position of Technical Advisor within ATscale involves providing strategic and technical advice on assistive technology policies and systems. The incumbent will be part of the ATscale Advisory Technical Group, which consists of experts from various disciplines relevant to assistive technology. The role requires independent evaluation of ATscale’s strategic priorities, annual work plans, and country engagements, ensuring that the advice provided aligns with ATscale’s overall goals and strategies. The advisor will also support the design and improvement of technical documents and programs related to AT policy, engage in capacity-building activities, and participate in monitoring and evaluation frameworks. The workload will be flexible and based on the needs of ATscale, with the potential for travel to attend in-person meetings or reviews.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Advisor will be responsible for providing independent advice on ATscale’s strategic priorities and annual work plans. This includes assisting in setting priorities, identifying gaps, and developing sector-wide strategies. The advisor will support the design and improvement of technical documents and programs related to assistive technology policy and systems. They will participate in the evaluation of proposals for their strategic value and provide expert insights on trends and risks in the assistive technology sector. The advisor will also lead capacity-building activities, engage in monitoring and evaluation, and offer consultations on AT policy and systems. Additional responsibilities may include attending virtual meetings with stakeholders and undertaking other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (Master's or above) in relevant fields such as Public Health, Ophthalmology, Audiology, or Social Science. A Bachelor's degree combined with additional relevant work experience may be accepted. A minimum of 9 years of experience in assistive technology, particularly in public health or social services, is required. Candidates should demonstrate experience in providing technical advice for assistive technology programs, knowledge of health or education programs, and familiarity with global AT stakeholders. Understanding cultural, linguistic, and economic factors influencing AT adoption is essential, along with experience in international development and working with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree (Master's or above) in fields such as Public Health, Ophthalmology, Audiology, or related disciplines is required. A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, combined with 2 years of relevant work experience, may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 9 years of combined experience in assistive technology, particularly in public health, non-communicable diseases, or health and social services. Experience in planning, implementing, and monitoring assistive technology programs is essential, along with a proven track record in developing AT policy and systems in low- and middle-income countries. Familiarity with disability rights and inclusion in projects is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory. Working knowledge of other UN languages is considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered as a retainer contract, meaning there is no expectation of a minimum number of working days, and the workload will depend on ATscale's needs. The contract type is Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA) with a duration of one year, renewable based on performance and funding availability. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and encourages candidates with disabilities and from underrepresented groups to apply. Reasonable accommodations will be made for applicants and employees with disabilities.