Technical Advisor - Wheelchairs and Mobility Products (Retainer, Multiple Hires, Multiple Positions)

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Technical Advisor - Wheelchairs and Mobility Products (Retainer, Multiple Hires, Multiple Positions)
Location: Remote
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, with a mission to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of its partners' projects. The organization emphasizes the importance of assistive technology through its partnership with ATscale, the Global Partnership for Assistive Technology, which aims to improve the lives of individuals in low- and middle-income countries by ensuring access to assistive products and services. UNOPS is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from various backgrounds to apply, particularly those with lived experiences of disability.

Job Overview:
The Technical Advisor position within ATscale's Advisory Technical Group focuses on providing strategic and technical advice related to wheelchairs and mobility products. The role is crucial in addressing the significant gap in access to assistive technology, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The incumbent will be responsible for aligning priorities with ATscale's goals, identifying gaps in the assistive technology sector, and developing strategies to enhance the capacity of implementing partners. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government entities and international organizations, to ensure effective implementation of assistive technology programs. The role is designed to be flexible, with workload varying based on the needs of ATscale, and may involve travel for in-person meetings or reviews.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including:

• Providing strategic advice on priority setting in alignment with ATscale's goals.
• Identifying gaps in the assistive technology sector and proposing solutions.
• Developing sector-wide strategies and strengthening the capacity of country partners.
• Contributing to the development of ATscale's annual work plan.
• Scoping interventions and drafting terms of reference for proposals.
• Organizing and participating in consultative meetings with specialized organizations.
• Evaluating proposals based on alignment with ATscale's priorities and programmatic merit.
• Reviewing and endorsing reports from implementing partners.
• Undertaking additional duties as required, with potential travel for meetings or reviews.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (Master's or higher) in rehabilitation fields such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or related areas. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. A minimum of seven years of experience in assistive technology, particularly in public health, rehabilitation, or disability sectors, is required. Proven experience in wheelchair policies and services, technical advice for assistive technology programs, and familiarity with disability rights and inclusion frameworks are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate proficiency in technical writing and have a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree (Master's or above) in rehabilitation or a related field is required. A Bachelor's degree in the same or a related field, combined with two years of relevant work experience, may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in assistive technology and its application in low- and middle-income contexts.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of combined experience in assistive technology, particularly in public health, rehabilitation, and disability sectors. Experience working in low- and middle-income countries is crucial, with a proven track record in wheelchair and mobility product policies and services. Familiarity with large-scale health or education programs and experience engaging with government stakeholders and international organizations are also required. A strong publication record in assistive technology research is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory. Knowledge of other UN languages is considered an advantage, enhancing communication and collaboration in diverse international settings.

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 an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA), with an initial duration of one year, renewable based on performance and funding availability. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and encourages 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 opportunities.