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- FAO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background and culture.
- Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non-and under-represented Members and person with disabilities are encouraged to apply;
- Everyone who works for FAO is required to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professional conduct, and to uphold FAO's values
- FAO, as a Specialized Agency of the United Nations, has a zero-tolerance policy for conduct that is incompatible with its status, objectives and mandate, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination
- All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks
- All applications will be treated with the strictest confidentiality
Organizational Setting
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through the FAO Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to MORE efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.
The Plant Production and Protection Division (NSP) enables the transition to MORE efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable plant production and protection through optimization and minimization. This requires the integration and harmonization of all appropriate crop production policies and practices in order to increase production in a sustainable manner to eradicate hunger while preserving the natural resources and environment for future use.
The position is located in the Ecosystems Approach to Sustainable Crop Production Intensification Team (NSPED), one of the six teams in the Division. NSPED provides advice, technical support and guidance aimed at maintaining and enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem services as essential components of sustainable farming systems. The NSPED Team is the focal point for Agroecology in FAO.
The incumbent will be part of a team of technical specialists with expertise in cropping systems, plant nutrition, soil health, integrated soil fertility management, biodiversity and ecosystem services, and various aspects of Agroecology —including policies, knowledge dissemination, technical advice, and best practices.
Reporting Lines
The incumbent will be under the direct supervision of an Agricultural Officer, NSPED.
Technical Focus
Agriculture and food systems approaches that optimize the productivity of production systems, minimize yield losses and wastage of resources, protect and enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services in agroecosystems, are inclusive and sustainable, while improving human well-being.
Tasks and responsibilities
The Agroecology and Food Systems Specialist will assist in the delivery of the NSPED work programme relating to various aspects of Agroecology, sustainable crop production, biodiversity, and ecosystem services in farming and food systems. Specifically, the key functions of the incumbent will be to:
• Provide assistance in the collation, review and analysis of technical information needed for the development, updating and/or finalization of relevant documents and publications;
• Support the formulation and implementation of projects, programmes and initiatives;
• Represent FAO in relevant fora, liaise with relevant experts, including from national governments and institutions, and international and civil society/farmers’ organisations;
• Provide advice to countries as required and prepare documents for different audiences; and
• Assist with the organization of meetings and the dissemination of information.
CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING
Minimum Requirements
• University degree in Ecology, Environmental Sciences, Natural Resource Management, Agricultural Sciences, Agricultural Economics, Rural Sociology or related fields as appropriate for the specific profile;
• At least five years of relevant experience including project implementation, liaising with international bodies, meeting organization, data collection and analysis, field experience possibly in developing countries with a focus on Agroecology;
• Working knowledge of English (proficient – level C) and limited knowledge (intermediate – level B) of another UN official language (French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese or Russian).
FAO Core Competencies
• Results Focus
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Building Effective Relationships
• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
Technical/Functional Skills
• Analytical skills
• Work experience in more than one location or area of work
• Extent and relevance of experience in Agroecology in the context of crop production management
• Familiarity with ecosystems approaches
• Excellent report writing and editing skills
• Excellent meeting organization skills
• Working knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an asset
Please note that all candidates should adhere to FAO Values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All and Integrity and Transparency