As the field of global development evolves, the demand for skills related to artificial intelligence (AI) is on the rise. However, a recent survey by the Humanitarian Leadership Academy reveals that AI expertise is still limited. This gap presents a chance for job seekers to gain a competitive edge by actively learning about AI and participating in discussions on the subject, according to Ka Man Parkinson from HLA, who spoke at a recent Devex digital event.
In this issue of Career Hub, I am excited to share insights from our latest event aimed at Devex Career Account members, focusing on how professionals can leverage AI skills in 2026. Additionally, I will highlight the most promising job opportunities currently available on Devex’s platform, including positions with the Gates Foundation, BRAC International, and other leading organizations.
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Top Full-Time Positions This Week
1. New Business Developer
Dorcas
The Netherlands
2. Special Assistant to the President and CEO
Corus International
United States
3. Senior Communications Officer, Champion Engagement and Creative Partnerships
Gates Foundation
United Kingdom | United States
4. Safeguarding Coordinator | APSP
Abt Global Inc.
Papua New Guinea
5. Regional Director, Europe
Amnesty International
United Kingdom
6. Senior Manager, Laboratory Technical Expert – CDC Strengthening Public Health Systems
IMA World Health
Nigeria
Building AI Skills
During a recent Devex event, experts suggested several online platforms like Coursera, HPass, Credly, and edX, which offer valuable AI courses. Many of these platforms allow you to earn badges or certificates that you can proudly display on your LinkedIn profile.
Ka Man Parkinson also advocated for professionals to take an additional step by writing posts about their learning experiences. This practice can effectively demonstrate to potential employers your engagement and thoughtfulness regarding the application of AI tools in your work.
Ali Al Mokdad, a senior strategic advisor on AI strategy and implementation, emphasized the importance of courses that emphasize leadership, data management, and international affairs, along with various webinars available.
He further recommended utilizing AI tools to gather essential recommendations based on the information available online.
Watch: The AI skills global development professionals need in 2026 (Career)
Download: A global development pro’s guide to AI (Career)
Top Consulting and Short-Term Jobs
1. Resource Mobilization and Stakeholder Engagement Lead
The Population Council
Kenya
2. Strategic Transformation Adviser
Cowater International
Ethiopia
3. Consultant: Infectious Diseases and Pathogens Prioritization Exercise
Project HOPE
Worldwide (remote)
4. Consultancy for AIM Research and Learning Partner
BRAC International
Rwanda
5. Individual Consultant: Public Climate Finance
United Nations Environment Programme
Fiji
6. Partnerships Specialist (Philanthropy)
UNICEF
India
+ For more opportunities, check out the weekly Devex Jobs Alert newsletter on LinkedIn and Devex’s job board.
Career Transitions from USAID
Devex engaged with six former USAID employees to learn how they adapted after sudden job losses. While some found similar roles, others, like Brian Pedersen, made significant life changes.
In 2019, Pedersen and his husband contemplated the idea of owning a bed-and-breakfast. When Pedersen learned in early 2025 that his global health position was ending after more than two decades, they decided to expedite their plans.
By February 2025, they contacted a broker, and by September, successfully purchased an operating bed-and-breakfast business in Galena, Illinois, a mere three-hour drive from Chicago.
While this marks a shift from global health, Pedersen notes that he draws parallels in how he tends to his guests. “I want them to feel cared for, similar to our objectives in global health,” he explains. “That’s how I connect what I used to do with what I’m doing now.”
Read more: They lost their jobs in 2025. Here’s how they pivoted (Career)
Explore more: How to move forward after a USAID job loss in 2026 (Career)
Updates from the Field
Key news and perspectives from the global development sector that are worth noting.
A new beginning from Feed the Future’s legacy. Responsible Innovations was formed after former USAID-backed researchers sought to safeguard years of research on food systems and global partnerships. (Pro)
Are critical minerals a concern for global development professionals? As demand for lithium, cobalt, and copper soars, nations rich in these minerals are altering regulations regarding resource management that fuels the clean-energy transition. So what implications does this hold? (Pro)
Malawi faces challenges in replacing U.S. aid. As the Malawian kwacha continues to decline, experts indicate that the country will struggle to fill the gap, even with new tax laws and a bilateral health funding agreement with the United States. (Pro)
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