UNPAID VOLUNTEER - Principal/Senior Technology Officer (Artificial Intelligence)

THIS IS AN UNPAID VOLUNTEERING ROLE.

Role Title: Principal/Senior Technology Officer (Artificial Intelligence)

Role Nature: Volunteer

Location: Home-based / Remote

The Blockchain & Climate Institute (BCI) is an international volunteers-led think tank supporting and advocating the application of blockchain and other data technologies in the global fight against climate change. 

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. You will be responsible for overseeing and implementing the use of AI, Machine Learning, Data Science, Data Modelling and associated tooling for internal productivity and climate action. You will perform research, onboard and train other team members, execute proof of concepts and pilots, and build applications using available data sets and AI models.

As with all roles in BCI, this role is a voluntary unpaid role.

You will have the opportunity to work with a diverse and passionate group of experts, collaborate with leading organisations and stakeholders in the field of climate and sustainability, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and innovation in this domain. You will also gain valuable experience and skills in emerging technologies, project management, and leadership.

Responsibilities:

• 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; and
• Attend conferences and events to promote the BCI, communicate research findings and insights via Powerpoint decks, and engage with key stakeholders.

Skills & Abilities

• Excellent oral communication skills, including the ability to develop effective working relationships, work flexibly across professional and operational boundaries, and communicate professionally with internal and external stakeholders at all levels;
• 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; and
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to present ideas appropriately and persuasively

General & Specialist Knowledge

• Strong technical skills, proficient in various programming languages, frameworks, and tools for data analysis ad 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 orientated;
• 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; and
• Passionate and knowledgeable about climate and sustainability issues and solutions, with a sense of mission and willingness to learn not just about technology but also about all other aspects that could be necessary to deliver impactful climate actions.

Education & Training

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or related field;
• Fluent in English; and
• 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; and
• Experience of working independently and with teams to drive forward projects using own initiative.