Technical Lead - AI Education Technology in Emergency Contexts

About the Organization

The International Rescue Committee (IRC), founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, is a leading humanitarian non-governmental organization working in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities. IRC's mission is to assist those affected by conflict and disaster by restoring health, safety, education, economic stability, and empowerment. Employees at IRC contribute towards lasting change by rebuilding dignity, safety, and hope for millions worldwide.

Background

The Inter-agency Network for Education in Emergencies (INEE) is a global coalition comprising more than 25,000 members affiliated with over 4,000 organizations across 190 countries. This network includes representatives from UN agencies, NGOs, donors, governments, universities, schools, and affected populations, all collaborating to ensure the right to quality education during emergencies and post-crisis recovery. Hosted by IRC, INEE is in the midst of adopting a new operational model focusing on local realities in crisis-affected contexts to enhance its regional and national presence while retaining its role as the sector's key convener and thought leader.

Job Overview

The AI EdTech Technical Lead will be part of INEE’s Technical Support, Exchange, and Standards team, reporting to the INEE Deputy Director. This position leads INEE’s partnership with Fab AI to adapt and expand the Quality Assurance Facility for Artificial Intelligence Education Technology tailored to crisis-affected situations. The role includes managing collaborations with all stakeholders and providing technical expertise to develop quality assurance components such as benchmarks and rapid evaluations to establish standards defining excellence in AI EdTech for emergencies, delivering robust evidence to inform decisions.

Major Responsibilities

• Direct INEE’s efforts in managing and providing technical leadership for the Quality Assurance Facility for AI EdTech in emergencies.
• Offer specialized technical guidance to develop benchmarks and rapid evaluation tools to define quality standards for AI EdTech in crisis environments.
• Provide thematic subject matter expertise in areas such as Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS), School Safety, and Accelerated Education in Emergencies.
• Engage and collaborate with INEE members to gather insights, current practices, and needs concerning AI EdTech in emergencies, ensuring that project activities respond to this input.
• Facilitate the strengthening and localization of INEE’s network to include diverse stakeholders and decision-makers in education in emergencies contexts.
• Represent INEE and the project at major international forums to share results, raise awareness, and promote adoption of the Quality Assurance Facility.
• Contribute to strategic planning and thought leadership within the INEE Secretariat on AI EdTech in emergencies.

Qualifications and Experience

• Postgraduate degree in education.
• 5 to 7 years of relevant professional experience in education with a focus on emergencies and EdTech.
• Solid theoretical and practical background in Education in Emergencies and education technology.
• Proven ability to manage and deliver projects across varied contexts with multiple partnerships.
• Comprehensive understanding of INEE’s operational methods and its role within the Education in Emergencies sector.

Skills and Competencies

• Thorough grasp of evidence-based methods and research pertaining to Education in Emergencies and EdTech.
• Capability to work independently, adapt flexibly under pressure, and excel in virtual, fast-paced settings.
• Strong analytical thinking and writing skills for preparing reports, briefs, and syntheses.
• Excellent interpersonal skills enabling effective engagement with diverse stakeholders including decision makers.
• Proficient communication skills in spoken and written English; proficiency in other INEE languages is a plus.
• Willingness to undertake occasional travel (up to 10%) to challenging field locations.

Working Conditions

This fully remote position is open to qualified individuals located and authorized to work in Kenya, Jordan, Colombia, or certain IRC-approved locations. Candidates employed internally in IRC countries with the right to work locally are also eligible. Appointment will be under a local contract aligned with the prevailing salary scale. The role may require up to 10% travel.

Commitment to Inclusion and Values

IRC provides reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process and employment. All IRC employees are expected to uphold organizational values of Integrity, Service, and Accountability, abiding by policies including beneficiary protection, child safeguarding, workplace harassment prevention, fiscal integrity, and non-retaliation. The IRC fosters inclusive teams that encourage reflection, power sharing, debate, and objectivity to optimize service outcomes.

Application Process

Applications will be accepted until August 31st, 2026, and reviewed on a rolling basis.