Technical Agriculture and Water Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. In Lebanon, FAO is implementing various projects to enhance food security and resilience, particularly in the context of climate change and sustainable resource management.

Job Overview:
The Technical Agriculture and Water Assistant position is crucial for the successful implementation of the project 'Increasing Resilience of Lebanon’s Water and Food Sector'. This role involves providing technical and operational support to ensure that project activities are executed efficiently and effectively. The Assistant will work closely with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Agriculture and local authorities, to mobilize beneficiaries and facilitate project activities. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to coordinate multiple tasks simultaneously. The Assistant will also be responsible for monitoring project progress and evaluating the impact of activities, ensuring that the project meets its objectives and adheres to FAO standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Agriculture and Water Assistant will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including: supporting beneficiary mobilization and selection processes, assisting in the planning and organization of project activities, and ensuring compliance with FAO rules in drafting agreements and contracts. The Assistant will monitor the performance of service providers, assist in the organization of field activities, and contribute to data collection and reporting. Additionally, the role involves supporting administrative and logistical processes, providing comprehensive project assistance, and performing any other related duties necessary for effective project implementation. This position requires strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering, Irrigation/Water Resources Engineering, Rural Development, or a related field. A minimum of four years of professional experience in agriculture and/or irrigation project implementation is required. Candidates should demonstrate a working knowledge of Arabic and English, both spoken and written, at a level C proficiency. Familiarity with computers and the Microsoft Suite is also necessary, along with proven experience in irrigation schemes and climate-resilient agriculture.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in a relevant field such as Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering, Irrigation/Water Resources Engineering, or Rural Development. Candidates must have obtained their qualifications from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED). This ensures that the educational credentials meet international standards and are recognized by FAO.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of professional experience in the field of agriculture and/or irrigation project implementation. Candidates with experience working with UN agencies or international NGOs will be given preference. Proven experience in field monitoring, beneficiary engagement, and coordination with government and local institutions is essential for success in this role.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of Arabic and English at a level C proficiency, which includes both spoken and written communication. This bilingual requirement is crucial for effective collaboration with local stakeholders and for reporting purposes. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates should be aware that appointment is subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. The FAO emphasizes the importance of higher educational qualifications obtained from recognized institutions, and candidates are encouraged to refer to the WHED for verification.