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UNOPS is Hiring: Join the Team as a Technical Advisor – Financing for Assistive Technology (Multiple positions)

Eugen3 weeks ago

3 minutes read

The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is thrilled to announce multiple hiring opportunities for the position of Technical Advisor – Financing for Assistive Technology. This role is crucial to the mission of advancing assistive technology, particularly for those living in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). As advocates for human rights and equity, UNOPS is calling upon skilled professionals to join its global team.

Why Assistive Technology Matters

Assistive technology (AT) represents a collection of devices and services designed to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities or impairments. With over 2.5 billion people worldwide requiring AT, the demand continues to grow. By 2050, that number is estimated to reach 3.5 billion, driven largely by an aging population and increased prevalence of noncommunicable diseases. Unfortunately, access to AT is deeply inequitable; in many LMICs, only about 10% of those in need have the assistive devices they require. This disparity can lead to poorer health outcomes, limiting individuals’ participation in education, employment, and community life.

The mission of ATscale, the Global Partnership for Assistive Technology, is to ensure that an additional 500 million people in LMICs have access to the life-changing technology they need by 2030. By hiring Technical Advisors, UNOPS aims to amplify this commitment by leveraging expert knowledge to overcome financial barriers hindering access to AT.

Key Responsibilities

The Technical Advisor will deliver high-quality, on-demand expertise in financing for assistive technology. Some functional responsibilities include:

Strategic Advisory: Providing independent, strategic, and technical advice on AT financing issues across ATscale initiatives, from priority setting to country engagements.
Concept Development: Leading the development of initiatives, including creating framework documents for resource mobilization and concepts for potential grantees.
Stakeholder Engagement: Advising senior-level stakeholders across government and international platforms to enhance programming and project development related to AT financing.
Evaluation and Recommendations: Conducting thorough evaluations of proposals, ensuring alignment with ATscale priorities and recommending strategic approaches to enhance impact and feasibility.
Capacity Building: Participating in and potentially leading high-level technical events, including webinars and workshops, to boost understanding and skills around financing for assistive technology.
Collaboration Development: Identifying and recommending partnerships with financing stakeholders to strengthen national and global efforts to bolster AT resources.

The Need for Expertise in Financing for Assistive Technology

The challenge of financing assistive technology in LMICs is multifaceted. Currently, there is a substantial lack of predictable and stable public funds earmarked for national assistive technology programs. Policymakers often lack the knowledge and experience required to successfully navigate the complexities of AT financing. The high costs associated with these programs can deter funding—compounded by out-of-pocket expenses that place a financial burden on individuals and families.

The Technical Advisors will play a vital role in addressing these pressing challenges through informed policy analysis, innovative financing strategies, and collaborative initiatives aimed at making AT more accessible and affordable.

Desired Qualifications

UNOPS is looking for exceptional candidates with the following qualifications:

Education: An advanced university degree (Master’s degree) in health financing, economics, public health, or related fields, with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience. Alternatively, candidates with a first-level university degree and 12 years of relevant experience may also apply.
Professional Experience: A track record of conducting policy analysis, engaging with government stakeholders in LMICs, and serving as thought leaders in health financing reform.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in technical writing, strong publication records in peer-reviewed journals on assistive technology, and demonstrated abilities in managing research projects.
Communication: Fluency in both written and spoken English, with proficiency in another official UN language, preferably French or Spanish, considered an asset.

Application Process

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the UNOPS Careers page. The application window will be open from March 21, 2025, to April 18, 2025. All applications must be submitted before midnight Copenhagen time (CET) on the closing date.

Applicants should rest assured that UNOPS will never request fees or payment during any part of the recruitment process. This is a critical commitment to ensuring an accessible and fair recruitment process.

Join a Global Mission

By becoming a Technical Advisor with UNOPS and ATscale, you will collaborate with a diverse team dedicated to enhancing financing strategies for assistive technology. With a focus on equitable access for all, you will contribute to creating a future where everyone has the resources they require to lead full, active lives.

If you are passionate about advancing assistive technology and are eager to make a difference, seize this opportunity to join an esteemed organization committed to social impact. Explore the possibilities today and apply to be a part of this meaningful work.