Fishery Officer (Aquaculture)

Job Posting Organization:
The Fisheries and Aquaculture Division (NFI) of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is dedicated to addressing the economic, social, institutional, governance, and policy aspects of fisheries and aquaculture. Established to enhance human well-being, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and poverty reduction, the division focuses on sustainable practices in fisheries and aquaculture. It emphasizes the importance of protecting the environment while ensuring the well-being of fishing communities. The division is responsible for collecting, validating, and disseminating fishery statistics and managing the conservation of living aquatic resources. The FAO operates globally, with a mission to achieve food security for all and improve nutrition, particularly in vulnerable communities.

Job Overview:
The Fishery Officer (Aquaculture) position is situated within the Sustainable Aquaculture area of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Division at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. This role is pivotal in supporting the organization of the Committee on Fisheries (COFI) Sub-Committee on Aquaculture and implementing policies that maximize the impacts of aquaculture on economic, social, and environmental objectives. The officer will focus on the role of small-scale aquaculture in food security and nutrition, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and FAO's strategic priorities. The position requires a commitment to sustainable practices and adherence to the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries, ensuring that aquaculture contributes positively to food security and environmental sustainability.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Fishery Officer (Aquaculture) will be responsible for collecting and analyzing relevant technical, social, economic, environmental, and institutional data to support program projects. Key responsibilities include undertaking analyses, providing technical input for plans and reports, and editing/revising technical documents. The officer will participate in developing improved work methods and tools, update databases and web pages, and collaborate in multidisciplinary project teams. Additionally, the officer will assist in developing training materials, organizing workshops, and supporting the normative work of the Sustainable Aquaculture area. Specific functions include supporting the COFI Sub-Committee on Aquaculture, advancing land-based and marine aquaculture, preparing aquaculture projects, providing technical backstopping, and promoting initiatives that enhance food security while minimizing environmental impacts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as biology, fishery science, aquatic sciences, environmental science, aquaculture economics and management, or international relations. A minimum of three years of relevant experience in aquaculture research, planning, development, and management is required. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in English and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish).

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields related to aquaculture, environmental science, or international relations is essential for this position. This educational background ensures that candidates have the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of the complexities involved in fisheries and aquaculture management.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three years of relevant experience in aquaculture, which may include research, planning, development, and technological innovations. Experience in organizing international meetings, seminars, and training courses is desirable, as is a background in providing scientific support to aquaculture bodies. Familiarity with global issues and trends in aquaculture is also important.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a requirement for intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language, which could be Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. This linguistic capability is crucial for effective communication and collaboration within the international context of the FAO's work.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, at the FAO headquarters. The role is full-time and may involve international travel for meetings and workshops. Candidates should be prepared to engage in cross-cutting initiatives that align with FAO's mission to enhance food security and nutrition while addressing environmental challenges. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies.