Artificial Intelligence Engineer/ Digital transformation Officer

Volunteering IT & Telecom

Overview

Support design, development and governance of AI solutions for UN.

You have:

• Minimum 2 years of progressively responsible experience in AI engineering, machine learning, or data science.
• Experience developing AI solutions in international organizations, humanitarian settings, or public sector environments is desirable.
• Proven experience with cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, Google Cloud).
• Experience with MLOps and AI deployment frameworks is an asset.
• Proficiency in Python, R, or similar programming languages.
• Experience with machine learning frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Scikit-learn.
• Knowledge of large language models (LLMs) and generative AI technologies.
• Familiarity with APIs, databases, and cloud-native architectures.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity and responsible AI frameworks.
• Desirable: Experience on Online Tools for Graphic design / Canva or others.
• Desirable: Experience in AI video generation

Contract

This is a UNV contract. More about UNV contracts.

The United Nations is increasingly leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and data-driven technologies to strengthen humanitarian response, peacekeeping operations, sustainable development programming, policy analysis, and operational efficiency. The AI Engineer will support the design, development, deployment, and governance of AI-enabled solutions aligned with UN values and principles, including human rights, ethical AI, transparency, inclusivity, and data protection. The role will contribute to digital transformation initiatives and support evidence-based decision-making across programmes and operations. The Specialist will support ROWCA in integrating AI across its overall workstream and operational activities. This includes helping to design, implement, and develop Generative AI tools and solutions connected to existing regional platforms and datasets, including DAVIS and CLIMAP. The Specialist will also help identify, pilot, and scale innovative technologies at the regional level that could improve humanitarian coordination, information management, analysis, and operational processes.

The purpose of this assignment is to design, develop, implement, and maintain artificial intelligence (AI) solutions that strengthen organizational effectiveness, automate processes, improve analytics capabilities, and support innovation initiatives within the UN system.

In addition, the role will support the exploration and piloting of AI tools across different units and functions, including:

• Development of rapid dashboard fixes and automated visualization solutions; • Creation of AI-generated multimedia products, including videos for digital communications and advocacy; • Improvement of data analysis and information workflows; • Development of intelligent assistants and automation tools to enhance productivity and decision-making. The position is expected to promote innovation, foster cross-unit collaboration, and ensure that emerging technologies are applied responsibly and effectively to support humanitarian action in West and Central Africa. Under the direct supervision of the Head of the Information Management Unit, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks: • Design and develop AI/machine learning (ML) models and intelligent automation solutions. • Build predictive analytics, natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, and generative AI applications where relevant. • Develop AI-powered tools to support operational and programme delivery. • Integrate AI solutions into existing UN digital platforms and workflows. • Prepare, clean, and manage structured and unstructured datasets. • Develop data pipelines and support cloud-based AI infrastructure. • Ensure compliance with UN data governance and information security standards. • Monitor emerging AI technologies and recommend strategic applications. • Support pilots, innovation labs, and digital transformation initiatives. • Contribute to AI strategy and roadmap development.

During the first month of the assignment, the UN Volunteer will work closely with his/her direct supervisor to finalize an agreed-upon work plan. The work plan should outline key objectives and activities and include regular check-ins with the supervisor to review progress and receive performance feedback.

•Accountability

•Adaptability and Flexibility

•Commitment to Continuous Learning

•Communication

•Creativity

•Professionalism

•Respect for Diversity

•Self-Management

•Technological Awareness

•Vision

•Working in Teams

•Minimum [2] years of progressively responsible experience in AI engineering, machine learning, or data science.

• Experience developing AI solutions in international organizations, humanitarian settings, or public sector environments is desirable.

•Proven experience with cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, Google Cloud).

•Experience with MLOps and AI deployment frameworks is an asset.

• Proficiency in Python, R, or similar programming languages.

•Experience with machine learning frameworks such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Scikit-learn.

• Knowledge of large language models (LLMs) and generative AI technologies.

•Familiarity with APIs, databases, and cloud-native architectures.

•Knowledge of cybersecurity and responsible AI frameworks.

•Desirable: Experience on Online Tools for Graphic design / Canva or others).

•Desirable: Experience in AI video generation

The assignment will take place in the nation’s capital, Dakar, a family duty station (Hardship classification A) with missions to the region. Dakar is a livable city. The spontaneous reception and hospitality of the Senegalese are among the characteristic features of this West African country. The living conditions in Dakar are good, as well as the access to health services. The yellow fever vaccine is compulsory; vaccination cards should be presented at the entrance. Vaccinations against Meningococcal Meningitis and Hepatitis A and B are also recommended. The basic drugs are available in pharmacies, but it is recommended to bring specific prescription drugs. According to official estimates from ANSD/RGPHAE 2023, the Dakar metropolitan area population reaches over 3,9 million. The total population of Senegal is 18,032,473 inhabitants (ANSD 2023). Senegal is located on UTC/ GMT. Senegal has a warm climate and sunny days throughout the year that make it a comfortable duty station. Daytime temperatures are, on average, around 30°C. The rainy season is in the northern hemisphere’s summer/fall. The currency used in Senegal is called Franc CFA (XOF). On 1st March 2025, the average exchange rate is 1 USD = 627.750 XOF. Many hotels, restaurants and businesses in Senegal accept the leading international credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, etc.). It is also possible to withdraw cash from automatic telling machines found in all the major cities. The accommodation facilities are in general good, and the choice is vast. Renting unfurnished and furnished accommodations from 450 to 2000 USD is possible. UN Volunteers can also co-rent and share private concessions, which must comply with Minimum Operating Residential Security Standards (MORSS). Local taxis can easily arrange Transportation in town.

The Conditions of Service, available here: https://explore.unv.org/cos, outline the policies and rules governing UN Volunteer assignments. Full information on entitlements at the duty station can be accessed here: https://app.unv.org/calculator. United Nations Volunteers is an equal opportunity programme that welcomes applications from qualified professionals. We are committed to achieving diversity in terms of gender, care protected characteristics. As part of their adherence to the values of UNV, all UN Volunteers commit themselves to combat any form of discrimination, and to promoting respect for human rights and individual dignity, without distinction of a person’s race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.

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Potential interview questions

Added 9 days ago - Updated 3 hours ago - Source: unv.org