International Dairy Buffalo Breeding and Management Specialist

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. 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 Timor-Leste, FAO focuses on assisting the government in developing policies, programs, and projects that enhance food security and reduce hunger and malnutrition, while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Job Overview:
The International Dairy Buffalo Breeding and Management Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the government of Timor-Leste in enhancing its national capacity for climate-smart dairy buffalo development and milk production. This position is part of a TCP project aimed at improving the nutritional status of the population through increased dairy production. The specialist will work closely with various government counterparts to implement project activities related to dairy buffalo breed development and management. The role requires a combination of technical expertise in buffalo breeding and management, as well as the ability to coordinate effectively with stakeholders to achieve project goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The specialist will undertake several specific functions related to dairy buffalo development in Timor-Leste, including: providing continuous technical guidance for the operationalization of the Climate Smart Dairy Buffalo Resource Center (CSDBRC); formulating curriculums and training manuals on artificial insemination (AI) and reproductive management of buffalo; identifying and procuring necessary inputs and equipment such as semen storage tanks and AI kits; conducting training sessions on AI and reproductive management; supporting the National Dairy Buffalo Development Specialist in identifying appropriate fodder species and balanced feeding practices; developing a dairy buffalo management reference manual and training materials; contributing to the development of the National Dairy Development Policy/Strategy; advising on knowledge management and best practices; and performing any other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a University Degree in Livestock Science, Veterinary Science, or a related discipline. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience is required, particularly in providing training in artificial insemination and reproductive management of buffalo. Candidates should also demonstrate a working knowledge of English, as effective communication is essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The position requires a University Degree in Livestock Science, Veterinary Science, or a closely related field. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively contribute to the dairy buffalo development project.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of related work experience, particularly in providing training in artificial insemination and reproductive management of buffalo. This level of experience is crucial for the specialist to effectively guide and support the operationalization of the CSDBRC and to ensure the successful implementation of project activities.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for communication with international stakeholders and for the development of training materials. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the local context may be considered an asset, but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The position is likely to be full-time and may involve working closely with various government entities and stakeholders in Timor-Leste. The specialist will be expected to demonstrate a results-focused approach, effective teamwork, and strong communication skills. The role may also involve some travel within the country to support project implementation and training activities.