National Post-harvest Tuna Processing Technician

National Post-harvest Tuna Processing Technician

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

July 31, 2026September 3, 2026TarawaKiribati
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Subregional Office for the Pacific Islands (FAO SAP) operates under the Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP). The organization is dedicated to supporting Pacific Island Countries in developing and implementing programs and projects that focus on sustainable agriculture, fisheries, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, nutrition, natural resources management, and resilient rural and coastal livelihoods. The FAO SAP is involved in various initiatives, including the Resilient Islands, Resilient Communities Project, which is financed by the Global Environment Facility. This project aims to support biodiversity conservation, sustainable land and natural resources management, and the development of resilient and sustainable livelihoods in Kiribati. The FAO SAP works closely with local communities and government bodies to ensure that the objectives of national fisheries policies, particularly those related to food security and sustainable livelihoods, are met.

Job Overview:
The National Post-harvest Tuna Processing Technician will play a crucial role in providing day-to-day technical, coordination, and operational support for post-harvest tuna processing and value-chain activities in Tarawa, Makin, and Nikunau. This position is integral to the successful implementation of the Resilient Islands, Resilient Communities Project, which aims to enhance the tuna value chain in Kiribati. The Technician will be responsible for supporting training initiatives, promoting food-safety practices, and assisting in the development and marketing of value-added tuna products. Additionally, the Technician will oversee the completion and operation of tuna micro-canning facilities and engage with various community groups, including women and youth, to foster sustainable livelihood activities. The role requires close coordination with the Coastal Fisheries Division, local communities, project personnel, and other stakeholders to ensure timely and effective implementation of planned activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Post-harvest Tuna Processing Technician will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: providing technical and implementation support for post-harvest tuna processing and value-chain activities; assisting the Coastal Fisheries Division in developing sustainable livelihood opportunities; improving fish hygiene, food safety, and marketing of tuna products; supporting training activities related to fish processing; coordinating logistics and operational requirements for micro-canning centers; providing guidance on processing techniques and food safety; planning and delivering technical training for various community groups; and preparing reports and documentation related to project activities. The Technician will also monitor progress against work plans, support field visits, and contribute to project reporting and knowledge management efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed technical or vocational training in relevant fields such as fisheries, fish processing, food safety, or business development. A minimum of three years of practical experience in areas such as fish handling, food production, or project implementation is required. Practical experience with fish-processing equipment and community livelihood activities is advantageous. Candidates must possess a working knowledge of English and be fluent in the Kiribati language. Additionally, candidates must be nationals of Kiribati.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to have completed technical or vocational training in fisheries, fish processing, food safety, agriculture, mechanics, business development, or a related field. Higher educational qualifications must be obtained from accredited institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three years of relevant practical experience in fish handling, processing, food safety, or community livelihoods. Experience working with fish-processing equipment and small-scale processing businesses is preferred. Familiarity with the fisheries sector and tuna value chains in Kiribati is also beneficial.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory, while knowledge of the Kiribati language is required. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an advantage but is not specified as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve travel within Kiribati, including to Makin and Nikunau. The appointment will be subject to security clearances and other relevant certifications.
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