Consultant/PSA for Agroecology and Agroforestry

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is dedicated to achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. Established in 1945, FAO has grown to include 194 member countries and the European Union, with its headquarters in Rome, Italy. The organization operates in over 130 countries worldwide, employing thousands of professionals who work towards sustainable agricultural practices, food security, and the eradication of hunger. The Forestry Division (NFO) specifically focuses on promoting sustainable forest and land management, contributing to poverty reduction, food security, and nutrition through effective policies and strategies.

Job Overview:
The Consultant/PSA for Agroecology and Agroforestry will play a crucial role in supporting the FAO's initiatives in Cabo Verde, particularly in the planning, design, monitoring, and evaluation of agroecological and agroforestry systems. This position involves the implementation and contextualization of the Tool for Agroecology Performance Evaluation (TAPE), which is essential for gathering harmonized field data on agroecological transitions and sustainable land-use practices. The incumbent will work closely with various stakeholders, including the FAO Cabo Verde Representative, the Assistant FAO Representative (Programme), and national project partners, to ensure that the objectives of sustainable land and water management are met. The role also emphasizes capacity development in agroecology, agrobiodiversity, and monitoring of trees outside forests, making it integral to the FAO's mission in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Consultant/PSA will be responsible for a wide range of tasks that support FAO’s normative and field activities on agroecology and agroforestry in Cabo Verde. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting the national adaptation, contextualization, and field implementation of the Tool for Agroecology Performance Evaluation (TAPE).
• Disseminating TAPE results through presentations, policy briefs, and communication materials.
• Providing technical input for field data collection on agroecology, agrobiodiversity, land and water management, and sustainable food system practices.
• Gathering, analyzing, and reviewing the latest scientific information, including best practices and case studies.
• Contributing to the preparation of reports, guidelines, and other publications.
• Developing and delivering capacity-building and training materials as needed.
• Coordinating, implementing, and managing current projects in accordance with FAO and donor rules.
• Developing new projects/programmes in line with FAO and donor regulations.
• Organizing regional and/or global events. 1
• Carrying out any other tasks as required by the FAO.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in forestry, agriculture, agroecology, natural resources, environmental sciences, or related fields. Additionally, a minimum of three years of relevant scientific experience in agrobiodiversity, sustainable land management, or agricultural systems in arid/semi-arid regions is required. Candidates should also demonstrate a strong command of English (Level C) and have excellent written and oral communication skills in Portuguese. Furthermore, candidates must be nationals of Cape Verde or residents of the country with a valid work permit.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in fields such as forestry, agriculture, agroecology, natural resources, or environmental sciences. This foundational knowledge is essential for understanding the complexities of agroecological systems and sustainable land management practices, which are critical to the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant scientific experience, particularly in areas related to agrobiodiversity, sustainable land management, or agricultural systems in arid or semi-arid regions. This experience is vital for effectively contributing to the FAO's initiatives and ensuring the successful implementation of agroecological practices in Cabo Verde.

Languages:
Proficiency in English at Level C is mandatory, along with excellent written and oral communication skills in Portuguese. Additionally, strong communication skills in local Creole are considered an asset, enhancing the ability to engage with local communities and stakeholders effectively.

Additional Notes:
The position is likely to be full-time and may involve a contract duration that aligns with project timelines and funding availability. The role is open to nationals of Cape Verde or residents with valid work permits, indicating a preference for local expertise. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO standards and may include opportunities for professional development and training.