Agricultural Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Plant Production and Protection Division (NSP) is part of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. The division is dedicated to enabling a transition towards more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable plant production and protection. Established to address global security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security challenges, the NSP focuses on optimizing agricultural practices while minimizing environmental impacts. The division operates globally, working with various countries to implement sustainable agricultural practices and policies. The FAO, founded in 1945, has a mission to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and food security worldwide, employing thousands of professionals across numerous countries.

Job Overview:
The Agricultural Officer position is crucial for the Pest and Pesticide Management team (NSPCD) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. The role involves providing technical and policy expertise to support the planning, development, and implementation of divisional programs and projects aimed at sustainable crop production and protection. The officer will work on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that reduce the impact of pests on crop production while safeguarding human health and the environment. This position requires collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and participation in international technical policy discussions, ensuring that FAO's initiatives align with global standards and agreements. The officer will also be responsible for developing methodologies and tools to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of pest management strategies, contributing to the overall mission of eradicating hunger and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Agricultural Officer will undertake a variety of duties, including planning and leading components of multidisciplinary teams, participating in organization-wide committees, and providing specialized expertise on technical networks. The officer will develop technical frameworks and methodologies to support program planning and implementation, conduct research and data analysis to inform policy proposals, and respond to member countries' requests for technical assistance. Additionally, the officer will collaborate on capacity development initiatives, promote international cooperation, and advocate for best practices in pest management. Specific functions include developing sustainable pest management strategies, assisting member countries in strengthening their capacities, and leading projects that address integrated plant health issues. The officer will also provide training on international agreements related to pest management and contribute to FAO's strategic framework implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in agricultural sciences, agronomy, plant protection, entomology, plant pathology, or a related field with a specialization in integrated crop pest management. A minimum of seven years of relevant experience in integrated pest management, pest monitoring, and management, preferably in developing countries, is required. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in English and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish).

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or equivalent, in fields related to agricultural sciences, agronomy, plant protection, entomology, or plant pathology. Specialization in integrated crop pest management is essential, reflecting the technical focus of the role on sustainable agricultural practices.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of relevant experience in integrated pest management and related areas. Experience in developing countries is preferred, as it aligns with the FAO's mission to support global food security. The candidate's work history should include roles that demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of pest management strategies and their implementation in various agricultural contexts.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a requirement for intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language, which could include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. This linguistic capability is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the international framework of FAO's operations.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, at the FAO headquarters. It is a full-time role that may involve international travel for field projects and capacity development initiatives. The Agricultural Officer will engage in resource mobilization activities and contribute to the overall strategic goals of the FAO. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards for international staff.