FAO Regular Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all. Established in 1945, FAO has over 195 member countries and operates in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO's mission is to end hunger, malnutrition, and food insecurity, and it actively mobilizes volunteer services to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda, focusing on transforming agri-food systems for better production, nutrition, environment, and life, leaving no one behind.

Job Overview:
The FAO Regular Volunteer Programme offers individuals the opportunity to contribute to the organization's mission by engaging in volunteer actions that align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Volunteers will be assigned to fields relevant to FAO's mission and will report to an assigned supervisor. The role is designed to provide valuable experience while supporting FAO's strategic framework aimed at achieving food security and sustainable agricultural practices. Volunteers are expected to adapt to an international multicultural environment and demonstrate good communication skills, contributing to the overall goals of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The specific duties and responsibilities of the volunteer will be outlined in the Terms of Reference (TOR) prepared by the hiring office. Volunteers are expected to perform tasks that contribute to FAO's mission, which may include assisting in research, supporting project implementation, engaging with local communities, and contributing to the development of strategies aimed at improving food security and agricultural practices. The role may also involve collaboration with other volunteers and staff members to achieve common objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary school education and possess a working knowledge of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish). Knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an asset. Candidates should be nationals of FAO member countries, aged 18 or older, and able to adapt to an international multicultural environment. Good communication skills are essential, and candidates should demonstrate a commitment to FAO's values of integrity and respect for all.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is the completion of secondary school education. Candidates are encouraged to have additional qualifications that may enhance their ability to contribute effectively to FAO's mission, particularly in fields related to agriculture, food security, or international development.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandatory, relevant working or research experience in fields related to FAO's mission is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of the challenges related to food security and agricultural sustainability, as well as a commitment to the values and objectives of FAO.

Languages:
A working knowledge of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish) is mandatory. Knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, and processing. The organization encourages qualified female applicants, nationals of non- and under-represented member countries, and candidates from Low-Income Food-Deficit Countries (LIFDCs), Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Land-locked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to apply. Selected candidates must have appropriate residence or immigration status in Italy prior to joining FAO. The organization does not provide remuneration to volunteers, and candidates with family members employed by FAO are not eligible for the volunteer programme. Applications must be submitted through the FAO recruitment portal, and candidates are encouraged to apply well before the deadline.