National Dairy Livestock Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is an agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, make agriculture, forestry, and fisheries more productive and sustainable, reduce rural poverty, and enable inclusive and efficient agricultural and food systems. In Timor-Leste, FAO focuses on supporting the government in developing policies and programs that enhance food security and sustainable resource management.

Job Overview:
The National Dairy Livestock Development Specialist will play a crucial role in the implementation of a project aimed at enhancing the dairy sector in Timor-Leste. This position involves working closely with various stakeholders, including government counterparts and international experts, to strengthen national capacities for climate-smart dairy buffalo development and milk production. The specialist will be responsible for coordinating technical and policy support, establishing a Climate Smart Dairy Buffalo Resource Center (CSDBRC), and implementing a buffalo breeding program through artificial insemination. The role also includes developing national dairy policies and strategies, conducting training sessions, and ensuring the effective management of dairy buffalo to improve the nutritional status of the population.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Dairy Livestock Development Specialist will undertake a variety of specific functions, including: assisting in the establishment of the Climate Smart Dairy Buffalo Resource Center (CSDBRC); supporting the International Dairy Buffalo Breeding Specialist in training on artificial insemination; conducting capacity assessments and gap analyses for dairy buffalo development; formulating training curriculums and manuals; forming Dairy Livestock Farmers Groups and providing training on buffalo management; identifying appropriate fodder species and supporting their cultivation; establishing small feed-making units; developing balanced feeding strategies; creating standard operating procedures for milk collection and processing; contributing to monitoring and record-keeping systems; assisting in organizing international study tours; drafting dairy development policies; and compiling training manuals for project activities. The specialist will also perform 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, particularly in project or program coordination, is required. Candidates should also have a working knowledge of English, as effective communication is essential for this role. FAO core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing are also critical for success in this position.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a University Degree in Livestock Science, Veterinary Science, or a related field. This academic foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of dairy livestock management and the technical aspects of dairy development.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of related work experience, particularly in project or program coordination. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage and implement agricultural or livestock development projects effectively, as well as their capacity to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including government agencies and local communities.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with international partners. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly those spoken in Timor-Leste, would be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This position is likely to be full-time and may involve a contract duration that aligns with the project timeline. The role may require the candidate to engage with international stakeholders and could involve travel within Timor-Leste for project implementation. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with FAO policies and the specific terms of employment.