National Project Technical Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is a specialized agency 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. FAO's Subregional Office for West Africa focuses on developing and implementing strategies for agri-food systems and rural development priorities in the region, collaborating with various regional institutions and country offices to address food security and agricultural issues.

Job Overview:
The National Project Technical Specialist will play a crucial role in the implementation of the GCF funded project aimed at managing climate risks in key sectors in Sierra Leone. This three-year project focuses on assessing climate stresses, conducting stakeholder engagements, and developing a Full National Adaptation Plan (NAP). The Specialist will work closely with the National Project Coordinator (NPC) and other stakeholders to ensure effective project execution, providing technical expertise and support in various areas such as adaptation planning, evidence-based climate change strategies, and private sector engagement. The position requires a proactive approach to stakeholder engagement and collaboration at multiple levels, ensuring that climate risk considerations are integrated into national development planning and that gender integration is prioritized throughout the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Project Technical Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of tasks including providing technical backstopping to the NPC, supporting project planning and budgeting, drafting and reviewing Terms of Reference for consultancies, coordinating training and workshops, documenting project events, executing the NAP process, advising on climate adaptation policies, tracking progress using indicators, facilitating multi-stakeholder consultations, and building institutional capacities. The Specialist will also prepare technical progress reports, manage project deliverables, and ensure compliance with FAO and GCF standards. Additional responsibilities include providing strategic policy advice, assisting in knowledge management, and representing the project in national and international forums.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in climate change, project management, business administration, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of experience in project management and implementation related to the environment and climate is required. Candidates should have a working knowledge of English at level C and must be nationals of Sierra Leone. Familiarity with GCF operations, NAP development, and climate risk assessment is essential, along with strong analytical skills and the ability to synthesize data into actionable insights. Experience in coordinating climate change projects and leading field teams is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as climate change, project management, or business administration is required. Additional qualifications in land governance or related areas will be considered an advantage. Candidates should have their educational qualifications recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant experience in project management and implementation, particularly in the context of environmental and climate-related projects. Experience in coordinating GCF or global projects is a significant advantage, as is previous work with UN or international organizations. Candidates should demonstrate a thorough understanding of national institutions and their mandates, as well as experience in facilitating workshops and inter-institutional dialogues.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at level C is mandatory. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an advantage, particularly in the context of stakeholder engagement and communication within the project.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. Applications submitted 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 full-time engagement, and candidates are encouraged to visit the FAO employment website for additional opportunities.