Technical Support Consultant for Tick Management

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established in 194

• Its mission is to lead international efforts to defeat hunger and malnutrition, contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through the FAO Strategic Framework. The organization operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to improving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and sustainable agricultural practices worldwide. FAO's country offices, headed by an FAO Representative, assist governments in developing policies, programs, and projects aimed at achieving food security and reducing hunger and malnutrition. The organization focuses on enhancing agricultural, fisheries, and forestry sectors while promoting sustainable use of environmental and natural resources.

Job Overview:
The position of Technical Support Consultant for Tick Management involves providing essential technical support to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Eswatini. The consultant will play a crucial role in assessing tick distribution, determining resistance to the commonly used acaricide amitraz, and strengthening national capacity for integrated tick management. The main objective is to implement tick surveillance and acaricide resistance testing, enhance field-level coordination, support training for animal health staff, and contribute to national reporting and policy recommendations. The consultant will work closely with the FAO Representative in Eswatini, the National Project Coordinator, and the Ministry of Agriculture to ensure effective execution of the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will undertake a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities divided into three phases. In Phase 1, the consultant will review relevant background materials, design protocols for tick collection and acaricide resistance testing, develop detailed survey plans, and facilitate training for national veterinary officials and laboratory personnel. In Phase 2, the consultant will provide technical support during fieldwork, ensuring quality adherence to protocols and advising on safe sample handling. In Phase 3, the consultant will analyze data on tick species distribution and acaricide resistance, produce comprehensive reports, and present findings to stakeholders in validation workshops. Additional related duties may be required as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree in Veterinary Science, Parasitology, Entomology, or a related field. Consultants with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. A minimum of seven years of relevant experience in the management or research of tick-borne diseases and acaricide resistance is essential. The consultant must possess a working knowledge of English at level C, demonstrating proficiency in communication and technical documentation.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced university degree in Veterinary Science, Parasitology, Entomology, or a related field. Those with a bachelor's degree are eligible if they have two additional years of relevant professional experience, highlighting the importance of educational qualifications in relation to practical experience in the field.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in managing or researching tick-borne diseases and acaricide resistance. This experience should include proven capabilities in applying acaricide resistance testing methods, leading field surveys, and providing technical training to national staff. Previous work experience in sub-Saharan Africa or similar agro-ecological settings is highly desirable, as it indicates familiarity with the regional challenges and practices.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at level C is mandatory for this position, ensuring that the consultant can effectively communicate and document findings. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context or stakeholders involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
The job does not specify a deadline for applications, which may indicate a rolling recruitment process. The position is likely to be full-time, and the consultant will be expected to work closely with national and international stakeholders. Compensation and benefits details are not provided in the job description, but candidates should inquire about these aspects during the application process.