Office Assistant

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. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. Its mission is 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. FAO's commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to its strategic objectives and operations, focusing on transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The Office of Innovation (OIN) within FAO plays a crucial role in driving and coordinating innovation across the organization, ensuring that innovative approaches are mainstreamed in its programs and facilitating collaboration between various units.

Job Overview:
The Office Assistant position is located in the Office of Innovation (OIN) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. The primary function of the Office Assistant is to perform a variety of routine administrative transactions and office support functions that contribute to the smooth and efficient running of the work unit. This role requires the individual to act independently on routine matters while consulting with supervisors on more complex issues. The Office Assistant will interact with colleagues from various departments, exchanging routine information and providing standard office support services. The position is essential for maintaining the operational efficiency of the office and supporting the overall mission of FAO.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Office Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: typing and drafting routine correspondence; collating tables, reports, presentations, publications, and other documentation; receiving and directing telephone calls and visitors; screening and sending emails; responding to routine internal and external inquiries; entering, retrieving, structuring, and updating information and data from various sources; setting up and maintaining office files and reference systems; initiating, viewing, and tracking administrative transactions in computerized financial, travel, and human resources systems; supporting the organization and administration of meetings, workshops, and events; assisting with travel arrangements; ensuring the availability of office supplies; and performing other duties as required. The Office Assistant's work will have a direct impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of the office's operations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements: a secondary school education; two years of relevant experience in office support work; and a working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English. Additionally, candidates should possess knowledge of MS Office applications, the Internet, and office technology equipment. General Service Staff are recruited locally, meaning candidates must be nationals of Italy or possess an existing visa/work permit and reside within commuting distance of the duty station at the time of application.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position is a secondary school education. This foundational level of education is essential for performing the administrative tasks and responsibilities associated with the Office Assistant role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in office support work. This experience should include familiarity with administrative procedures, office technology, and the ability to manage routine office tasks efficiently.

Languages:
A working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, having intermediate knowledge (intermediate proficiency - level B) of another FAO official language such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified under the General Service category, and candidates must be nationals of Italy or possess a valid work permit. The role is full-time, and the Office Assistant will be expected to work within commuting distance of the duty station in Rome. The position may involve a contract duration that aligns with FAO's operational needs, and candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that supports the organization's mission to improve global food security.