Many countries want to move their industries into smarter and greener systems. This role supports that shift. It is shared by a third party to help the right expert see the full scope of the work.
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is searching for a Lead Expert who can design and guide Industry 4.0 transformation methods for small and medium manufacturers. The work supports a major project focused on the Western Balkans and aims to help firms adopt modern tools, clean energy ideas and sustainable factory practices.
Job Summary
Position: Lead Expert on Industry 4.0 Transformation Methodology and Programme Design
Company: The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO)
Location: Remote, home based
Employment: Temporary consultancy, non-staff WAE
Salary Range: Not stated
Job Category: International consultant
About the Organization
UNIDO is a United Nations agency focused on industrial growth, poverty reduction and environmental care. The mission is to support countries in building strong, fair and sustainable industries. It works with the goals set by global development agreements and helps nations shape long-term plans for cleaner and smarter production.
The organization guides work in several fields. These include clean energy, digital tools, AI, climate action, circular economy, skills development and policy support. Its teams design programmes, give technical advice, support innovation and unite partners across different regions. The goal is to help industries grow with care for people, jobs and the environment.
This role sits under the Division of Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence. The division helps firms adopt modern digital tools, smart systems and new ways of working. It supports safe and secure factory setups and helps countries prepare their industries for the future.
Project Background
The project supports Industry 4.0 growth in the Western Balkans. It helps build ties between science, business and industry. A Smart Manufacturing Innovation Center was launched in Serbia during the first phase. The second phase now aims to expand the impact and prepare a wider regional approach. The focus is on digital tools, green processes and circular economy models. The project works with governments and partners in the region to support long-term plans that improve industry performance and prepare firms for future demands.
About the Role
The Lead Expert designs the main transformation method that guides small and medium firms through their Industry 4.0 journey. The expert also builds the full toolkit that firms and advisors will use during assessments, planning, and training. The work includes research, design, training, support and testing. It spans several months with tasks spread across home-based work and a short assignment in Serbia.
The role involves clear thinking, strong technical skill and deep knowledge of digital and green factory models. The expert works with the Project Manager and other specialists.
Key Responsibilities
Methodology Development
• Design a complete “Factory of the Future” framework
• Build a strategic model that shows how firms move through digital and green growth stages
• Explain the role of SME advisors within the process
• Define the links between the maturity scan, transformation plan, training modules and advisor certification
• Describe all seven transformation areas, including advanced tech, digital factory, eco factory, smart systems, human-centered organization, customer-focused engineering and value-chain models
Toolkit Development
• Build an assessment tool to measure SME digital maturity
• Set indicators, scoring rules and benchmarking steps
• Create a template for transformation plans that includes tech, environmental and social goals
• Write an implementation guide for advisors with clear steps and sample tools
• Design training modules for advisors and create a full certification process
Pilot Testing
• Lead a three-day train-the-trainers workshop
• Support a pilot programme for at least ten SMEs
• Gather feedback, refine tools and prepare a summary report
General Tasks
• Support project reporting and outreach
• Prepare a final report outlining actions taken and next steps
Minimum Requirements
Education
Advanced university degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Systems, Economics, Innovation or a related field.
Experience
• At least seven years of work in smart manufacturing, digital factory tools or Industry 4.0 strategy
• Experience building digital transformation methods or maturity models for SMEs
• Knowledge of organizational change and technological growth processes
• Strong analytical and writing skills
• Experience in sustainability aspects of advanced manufacturing is helpful
• Work with SMEs or support bodies such as clusters or innovation centers is helpful
Languages
Fluent English is required. Knowledge of another official UN language is helpful.
Required Competencies
• Integrity and fairness
• Professional work conduct and strong personal discipline
• Respect for diversity
• Focus on people and teamwork
• Strong planning and responsibility
• Clear communication and trust building
• Creative thinking and openness to new ideas
Important Notes
This is a temporary assignment linked to a specific project. There is no expectation of renewal. UNIDO expects all staff and consultants to uphold high ethical standards. Shortlisted candidates may need to share information on financial interests.
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted through the official UNIDO careers portal. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. If you see any request for payment during the process, ignore it and report it to [email protected].
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