[Hiring] Consultant - Linguistic Technology Support @UNDP

Role Description

LSP seeks to automatize the processes of downloading and cleaning bitexts for machine translation retraining through the development of a specific tool. This tool will download bitexts from the LSP CATT tool (eLUNa) and clean them for training purposes. Additionally, LSP aims to explore the use of Microsoft applications to develop language support tools that automate tasks related to translation, editing, and publishing processes.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Retraining of Microsoft Custom Translator models
  • Develop a tool (macro, script, etc.) with customized filters to download automatically WMO bitexts from eLUNa for the years 2024-2026 for the following language pairs: English > Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish.
  • Create a database of downloaded bitexts used for MT training in all six languages.
  • Develop a tool (macro, script, etc.) to clean up the downloaded bitexts by removing duplicates, same language matches, empty targets, misalignments, etc.
  • Retrain Microsoft Translator models for the specified language pairs and train the reversed models.
• Evaluate retraining results
  • Evaluate the retraining results based on automatic scoring (BLEU/COMET) and provide a report to LSP.
  • Complete human evaluation of the retrained Microsoft models in cooperation with WMO linguists.
  • Provide a report on human evaluation of retrained Microsoft models.
  • Prepare bilingual glossaries based on WMO terminology and acronyms for integration into Microsoft Translator models.
  • Retrain all Microsoft Translator models using the prepared glossaries.
  • Evaluate retraining results based on the integration of glossaries and provide a report.
  • If results are unsatisfactory, take action to improve existing engines or recommend alternative solutions.
  • Train the Linguistic Services Support Officer and relevant staff on retraining models and provide guidance material.
  • Present retraining results to LSP stakeholders.
  • Document the procedure for retraining and evaluation of models.
• Developing or updating language tools
  • Assist LSP by developing language tools related to translation, editing, and publishing processes.
  • Amend WMO template macro (“WMO Ribbon”) to connect with Sharepoint lists and session websites.
• Support and Training
  • Provide support in testing functionalities of ongoing technology projects.
  • Train the Linguistic Services Support Officer and other stakeholders on the use and maintenance of language tools.
  • Prepare detailed documentation and guidance material for the LSSO.
  • Carry out other relevant duties as required.

Qualifications

• University degree in information technology, data science, computer science, language technology, or related field.

Requirements

• Proven experience in training and retraining of machine translation models (Microsoft and other engines).
• Developing language tools (via macros, scripts, flows, etc.) using Microsoft applications and IT scripting tools such as Python.
• Developing and managing databases/records sets.
• Knowledge of training and retraining of machine translation models (Microsoft Translator required, other engines a distinct advantage).
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft applications (Azure, Sharepoint, Forms, Power Automate, VBA, etc.).
• Expertise in Python and similar programming languages.
• Ability to transfer knowledge by documenting processes and providing training.

Languages

• Excellent knowledge of English (both oral and written).
• Knowledge of other official languages of WMO would be an advantage.

Salary and Allowances

• Pay Band C: (USD 390.- / USD 560.-)

Duration

• One year full time.

Planned Travels

• The consultancy can be carried out remotely, but the consultant will be required to come to WMO Secretariat in Geneva for in-person meetings as deemed necessary.
• WMO will not cover any travel expenses; they are expected to be fully paid by the consultant.

Focal Point

• Sarah Eymann ([email protected])

Applications

• Applications should be made online through the WMO e-recruitment system.
• Do not send your application via multiple routes. WMO no longer accepts applications via post or email.
• Only applicants for whom WMO has a further interest will be contacted.
• Shortlisted candidates may be required to sit a written test and/or an interview.

Statements

• WMO is committed to achieving diversity and a balanced workforce. Applications are welcome from qualified women and men, including those with disabilities.
• The statutory retirement age is 65.
• The minimum age to be eligible for consideration for vacant positions is 18.

Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority

• WMO does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination, and abuse of authority.
• All selected candidates undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles.

Scam alert

• WMO does not charge a processing fee at any stage of its recruitment, selection, and hiring processes.
• WMO will not ask for applicants’ bank account information.