INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION UNION
ITU is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies, with the mission to connect the world. To achieve this, ITU manages the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits at the international level, works to improve communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishes global standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communication systems. ITU also organizes global Telecom events bringing together the most influential representatives of government and the private sector to exchange ideas and knowledge for the benefit of all.
ITU applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. ITU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization. Achieving gender balance is a high priority for ITU.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics Programme Consultant
Vacancy notice no: 2298
Sector: TSB
Department: SED
Country of contract: Switzerland
Duty station: Geneva
Position number: [[positionNumber]]
Grade: [[PositionGrade]]
Type of contract: Consultant
Duration of contract: 6 months
Recruitment open to: External
Application deadline (Midnight Geneva Time): 28 April 2026
ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT
The Telecommunication Standardization Bureau (TSB) fulfills the objectives of the Union relating to telecommunication standardization, by providing secretariat support to groups studying technical, operating and tariff questions and facilitating the adoption of Recommendations in these areas with a view to standardizing telecommunications and information technology on a global basis. In order to achieve these objectives, the Telecommunication Standardization Bureau works in accordance with the instructions of the World Telecommunication Standardization Assemblies (WTSA), Telecommunication Standardization Study Groups and the Telecommunication Standardization Advisory Group. TSB, headed by an elected Director, provides the technical, administrative and logistic support for the assemblies and for the meetings of the groups mentioned.
Within the Telecommunication Standardization Bureau (TSB), the Strategic Engagement Department (SED) is responsible with leading the Bureau's community engagement, marketing, and communications efforts, including pioneering “emerging technologies” initiatives like the annual AI for Good Global Summit, and utilizing innovative tactics for membership recruitment and business development to establish ITU-T as an agile, forward-looking, and innovative standardization platform. The Department is also responsible for the Bureau's, academic initiatives and the ITU Journal, a periodical dedicated to research topics in telecommunication and ICT.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The ITU Telecommunication Standardization Sector (ITU-T) has been conducting core standardization work relating to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its applications.
AI for Good was launched in 2017 and includes all year programming including webinars, Robotics for Good Youth Challenge, Machine Learning Challenges, Innovation Factory competitions and the AI for Good Global Summit. The objective of this consultancy is to contribute to the development and implementation of the AI for Good online programming, the Innovation Factory, and the Robotics for Good Youth Challenge, ensuring their successful delivery at the AI for Good Global Summit 2026.
TERMS OF REFERENCE
Under the direction of the AI and Robotics Programme Officer, the AI and Robotics Programme Consultant will:
- Support coordination of the startup pipeline and on-site operational activities for the Innovation Factory in the lead up to, and during, the AI for Good Global Summit 2026.
- Assist in the execution of the Robotics for Good Youth Challenge programming, including logistics coordination with Local Chapters and visibility activities, focusing on participation growth and inclusivity, and supporting the Challenge’s contributions to the AI for Good Global Summit 2026.
- Provide operational support for AI for Good online programming, including speaker coordination, webinar preparation, logistics, and dissemination of communication materials.
- Maintain accurate online programming registration and performance tracking, conduct weekly monitoring of registrations, consolidate attendance figures, update mailing lists, and prepare performance dashboards and summaries.
CONCRETE DELIVERABLES
- Production of 20 AI for Good online events post Summit 2026, including coordination with speakers and partners, run of show preparation, rehearsal organization, live session support, and development of post event presentations and summaries reflecting outcomes and key takeaways.
- Production of Robotics for Good Youth Challenge national and regional events, including coordination with chapter leads and partners, provision of planning templates and checklists, troubleshooting support, and preparation of pre event and post event reports.
- Support to Innovation Factory chapter sessions, including liaison with sponsors and partners, completion of planning and execution checklists, and preparation of concise post activity notes capturing outcomes and testimonials.
COMPETENCIES
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite.
- Excellent verbal and written communication.
- Demonstrated strong attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and consistency across all deliverables.
- Ability to establish priorities and efficient work plans.
- Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to initiate and maintain good working relations with colleagues.
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
Education:
University degree in communications, international relations, international development, management, engineering, political or social sciences or a related field OR education from a reputed college of advanced education with a diploma of equivalent standard to that of a university degree in one of the fields above.
Experience:
At least four (4) years of experience in operations coordination and process support, client-facing or oriented roles, and/or working with public entities.
Project coordination and logistics management experience would be an advantage.
Languages:
Knowledge of English at advanced level.
REMUNERATION INFORMATION
CHF 5 500.- per month.
INFORMATION ON RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the ITU career website. The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as a competency-based interview. ITU uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates. Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided. Messages originating from a non ITU e-mail account - @itu.int - should be disregarded. ITU does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
