Artificial Intelligence Software Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) is the world’s largest dedicated multilateral climate fund, established in 2010 by the 194 countries that are Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). GCF's mission is to support developing countries in their efforts to respond to climate change while fostering sustainable development. As of the end of 2023, GCF has a portfolio of 286 projects across 133 countries, committing a total of USD 16 billion. The organization aims to grow its fund to at least USD 50 billion by 2030, focusing on mobilizing public and private sector financial flows for climate action. GCF operates with a diverse workforce of over 300 employees, representing nearly 80 nationalities, and collaborates with various stakeholders including governments, communities, and the private sector to implement impactful climate initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Artificial Intelligence Software Development Specialist will play a crucial role in the design, development, testing, and deployment of AI-based solutions within the Green Climate Fund. This position requires a commitment to creating innovative applications that can operate independently or integrate into the existing GCF ecosystem. The specialist will be responsible for developing knowledge products that ensure effective management of AI projects, aligning them with organizational priorities and industry best practices. The role demands a proactive approach to technological trends, continuous research into new software libraries and frameworks, and the independent development of machine learning models for predictive analysis. The specialist will also lead an AI-focused team, nurturing talent and fostering a culture of transparency, respect, and innovation.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design and implement AI-based solutions, ensuring they meet organizational needs and industry standards.
• Develop GenAI-powered solutions and user interfaces to automate processes and enhance efficiency.
• Conduct ongoing research into emerging technologies and software solutions relevant to AI projects.
• Independently develop machine learning models for predictive analysis to support programmatic and institutional objectives.
• Identify and analyze operational needs, leveraging AI capabilities for optimal mission delivery.
• Lead the formation of an AI-focused team, providing mentorship and training to enhance team capabilities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define business requirements and identify opportunities for AI solutions.
• Represent GCF in external engagements, sharing best practices and strengthening the Fund’s leadership in AI.
• Advise on AI-related policies and strategies to maximize organizational impact. 1
• Develop frameworks for continuous improvement of AI programming and project outcomes. 1
• Write documentation and perform testing of applications and features. 1
• Implement enhancement requests from various business units. 1
• Provide expert technical guidance to staff and consultants, ensuring alignment with GCF’s mission. 1
• Establish a knowledge-sharing environment through structured training and on-the-job learning opportunities. 1
• Support the Development Team with administrative tasks as needed.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in computer science, artificial intelligence, or a related field. A Bachelor’s degree with an additional 2 years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the Master’s degree.
• A minimum of 9 years of professional experience in software development, including both frontend and backend development.
• At least 3 years of experience in developing AI-based solutions.
• Proven leadership skills in mentoring AI development teams and building high-performing technical teams.
• Experience in shaping the strategic direction of AI initiatives in collaboration with senior leadership.
• Proficiency in modern software development tools (e.g., Github, VSCode) and cloud platforms (e.g., Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services).
• Familiarity with CI/CD deployment pipelines (e.g., Azure DevOps, Github Actions).
• Proficiency in Python and AI-related libraries (e.g., TensorFlow, SciPy).
• Knowledge of formal project management methodologies (e.g., PMBOK, PRINCE2) is desirable. 1
• Experience with Microsoft Teams bot development is a plus. 1
• Excellent writing and presentation skills. 1
• Ability to liaise with Business Process Owners to translate operational needs into technical requirements. 1
• Work experience in international organizations is an advantage. 1
• Fluency in English is essential; knowledge of other UN languages is an advantage.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master’s degree in computer science, artificial intelligence, or a related field. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree combined with an additional 2 years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the Master’s degree requirement. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively contribute to the development of AI solutions.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of 9 years of professional experience in software development, which should include both frontend and backend development. Additionally, at least 3 years of this experience should be specifically focused on developing AI-based solutions. The role also requires proven leadership capabilities in mentoring AI development teams and a track record of building high-performing technical teams in AI-focused environments. Experience in influencing the strategic direction of AI initiatives in collaboration with senior leadership is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Knowledge of other United Nations languages is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate better communication and collaboration in a diverse, international work environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified at Grade IS4, with a competitive salary of USD 129,400, complemented by attractive benefits including relocation, dependency, housing, education assistance, and home country travel allowances. The closing date for applications is set for 24 April 2025, and applications submitted after this deadline may not be considered. The selection process will involve assessing candidates based on their performance in interviews, appropriate testing, and references. The organization strongly encourages applications from women and nationals of developing countries.