IT Automation Lead

Reporting to the Head of Solution Development and Delivery and Engineering, the IT Automation Lead oversights the technical aspects of the design and implementation of IT solutions, providing direction, instructions and guidance promoting automation of tasks using scripting, artificial intelligence and low code/no code platform for the purpose of developing IT solutions which are fully compliant with WFP standards and achieve the highest quality in terms of technical usability, user acceptability, and domain suitability.

WFP’s vision for automation is to transform the organization into a modern, productive and

paper-less office by reducing or eliminating manual processes, thereby ensuring that its human

capital can be dedicated to helping the most vulnerable.

The consultant will be based remotely and work with global colleagues in our Nairobi, Rome HQ

and Country Offices. As such, the role will require proven ability to work in remote teams.

• Design the software architecture and the data model of IT solutions, and support the Product Manager in presenting the IT Solution Proposals to the Architectural Board.
• Ensure the high technical quality of IT solutions, covering all aspects such as: functionality, user experience, and compliance with applicable guidelines (architecture, security, technology stack, user interface, etc.).
• Provide direction, instructions, and guidance to the (off-site) Development Teams;
• Promote the automation of tasks, through tools such as scripting, low code/no code platforms, artificial intelligence.
• Ensure the integration within system, based on the API first principles.
• Set-up and maintain IT solution environments.
• Collaborate on maintaining the continuous improvement (CI) and continuous deployment (CD) infrastructure.
• Create an inspiring team environment with an open communication culture
• Other duties related to software development, as required.

University degree or a post-secondary education combined with a minimum of 3 years of equivalent working experience in software development or other related fields.

At least 3 years of professional working experience in software architecture and development.

• Knowledge and proficiency with solutions architecture, developing high-quality IT solutions, web technologies, Git versioning system, Agile Scrum, and mainstream software design & development methodologies.
• Proven experience with Python, RUST or Node.
• Experience with usage of AI agents, data pipelines, automation pipelines.
• Proven and practical experience with AI integration protocols and methodologies like MCP, A2A, and AI Gateway.
• Deep knowledge of Infrastructure as Code (CDK is a plus)
• Knowledge of PowerApps/Power Automates is a plus.
• Understanding of accessibility, security compliance, design principles behind a scalable IT solution, and the differences between delivery platforms, such as mobile vs desktop, and optimizing output to match the specific platform.
• Contributions to AI automation related open-source projects, is a plus.
• Availability of an active Github/Gitlab account is a plus.

• Able to think creatively and strategically.
• Able to plan and organize work effectively.
• Able to articulate complex concepts in non-technical language.
• Able to coordinate multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
• Able identify and resolve problems.
• Well organized and detail oriented.
• Values diversity in the workplace, particularly valuing respectfulness and inclusively leveraging everyone's talents.

Fluency in oral and written English with an intermediate knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian and Spanish) or Portuguese (one of WFP’s working languages) is desirable.