[Hiring] Technology Officer @Digital Technology Institute for Development (DTID)

Role Description

This is an unpaid volunteering role.

We are looking for a passionate VOLUNTEER who takes a methodological approach to their work, conducts independent research and analysis, engages with key stakeholders, and establishes strategic partnerships to progress the BCI’s core mission.

This role is for a Principal Technology Officer (PTO - Artificial Intelligence) and is a very senior position reporting to the CTO. The successful candidate will provide strategic and technical leadership for Artificial Intelligence across all BCI projects. Responsibilities include:

• Define and execute the AI technology strategy and roadmap for BCI’s projects and initiatives.
• Build, lead and manage the AI technology team, including hiring, training, mentoring, and performance evaluation.
• Research and identify the best data sets and AI models for our use cases and objectives.
• Design, develop, test, and deploy applications and solutions using AI, Machine Learning, Data Science, Data Modelling, and associated tooling.
• Ensure the quality, reliability, security, and scalability of our technology products and services.
• Monitor and evaluate the performance and impact of our technology solutions and provide feedback and recommendations for improvement.
• Communicate and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including project partners, sponsors, donors, and beneficiaries.
• Stay updated on the latest trends and developments in the field of emerging technologies, climate, and sustainability.
• Generate opportunities for strategic partnerships.
• Attend conferences and events to promote the BCI, communicate research findings and insights via PowerPoint decks, and engage with key stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Excellent oral communication skills, including the ability to develop effective working relationships.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to balance competing demands under pressure.
• Proven ability in computing or math-related tasks of Agile technology projects.
• Experience in building constructive relationships with stakeholders.
• Experience in working independently and with teams to drive forward projects using own initiative.
• Experience in designing, planning, and facilitating independent research and the ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to present ideas appropriately and persuasively.

Requirements

• Strong technical skills, proficient in various programming languages, frameworks, and tools for data analysis and AI development, such as Python, R, TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn, etc.
• Familiar with various data sources, formats, and standards, such as APIs, JSON, XML, CSV, etc., and detail-oriented.
• Experience in developing and deploying applications and solutions using cloud platforms, such as AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, etc.
• A portfolio of supported Open-Source GitHub projects (desirable).
• Experience in leading and managing technology teams and projects, including agile methodologies, budgeting, reporting, and documentation.
• Passionate and knowledgeable about climate and sustainability issues and solutions.

Education & Training

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or related field.
• Fluent in English.
• Aptitude in Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish (desirable).

Relevant Experience

• At least 5 years of professional experience in AI, Machine Learning, Data Science, Data Modelling, or a related field.
• Nimble business mind with a focus on developing creative solutions.
• Strong project reporting skills with a focus on inter-departmental and inter-organisational communication.
• Experience of working independently and with teams to drive forward projects using own initiative.

Benefits

• You will hone or learn new skills including research, presentation, writing, professional etiquette.
• Your mind will be mentally stimulated, hence providing you with a sense of purpose.
• You will advance and boost your professional career by helping you to make professional connections and giving you real-world experience at the intersection between climate and emerging technologies.
• Help you develop long-lasting professional relationships with others.

Selection Process

As a voluntary organization, we are pleased to open the door for candidates who may not have the prior experience they need to start, progress, or switch their careers. To recruit the most suitable candidates, it is the BCI’s policy to also consider inexperienced candidates to fill our voluntary unpaid roles as long as they can demonstrate the skills required in the written assessment. The selection process includes:

• Section A: Verbal and Numerical Reasoning (20 multiple-choice questions).
• Section B: Situation Judgement Test (20 multiple-choice questions).
• Section C: In-Tray Exercise (An open-ended assessment relevant to the duties of the role).

Candidates who pass all three sections will be invited to attend a phone screening, first interview, and final interview online.