Forestry Officer (Global Forest Resources Assessment)

Job Posting Organization:
The Forestry Division (NFO) of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is dedicated to promoting sustainable forest management. Established to address the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of forestry, the division plays a crucial role in poverty reduction and enhancing security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and nutrition. It collaborates with member countries, civil society, and the private sector to develop effective forest policies and manage forest conservation issues. The division also focuses on strengthening the role of forests in climate change mitigation and adaptation, while collecting, analyzing, and disseminating information on global forest resources, including the production, trade, and consumption of wood and non-wood forest products. The FAO operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing a diverse workforce committed to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

Job Overview:
The Forestry Officer (Global Forest Resources Assessment) is a pivotal role within the Global Forest Resources Assessment Team (FRA) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. This position is responsible for leading designated country reporting, remote sensing, and thematic study workstreams. The officer will provide comprehensive technical and policy expertise to support the planning, development, and implementation of divisional programs, projects, products, and services, aligning with the FAO Strategic Framework. The role requires collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and participation in organization-wide committees and working groups, ensuring that the forestry division meets its objectives effectively. The officer will also engage in research, data collection, and analysis to develop technical standards and innovative strategies, contributing to policy proposals and technical reports.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Forestry Officer include planning and leading components of multidisciplinary teams, participating in cross-divisional committees, and providing specialized expertise on technical networks. The officer will develop analytical frameworks and methodologies to support program planning and monitoring. Responsibilities also encompass designing and conducting research and data collection activities, responding to country requests for technical assistance, and providing backstopping to field projects. The officer will promote international cooperation, advocate for best practices, and participate in resource mobilization activities. Specific functions include serving as the primary contact for FRA country reporting, coordinating capacity development activities, and contributing to data review and report writing. The officer will also spearhead special studies and coordinate project management and reporting activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in forest inventory, assessment and monitoring, natural resources management, or a related field. A minimum of seven years of relevant experience in forest resources assessment, field inventories, remote sensing, or data analysis is required. Proficiency in English (level C) and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or equivalent, in fields related to forest inventory, assessment and monitoring, or natural resources management. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of forest management and the analytical skills needed for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in areas such as forest resources assessment, field inventories, remote sensing, and data analysis. Experience in diverse forest types and ecosystems, as well as familiarity with different countries and regions, particularly developing countries, is highly desirable. The candidate should have a proven track record of analytical writing and data analysis, demonstrating the ability to mobilize resources effectively.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is a working knowledge of English at proficiency level C. Additionally, candidates must have intermediate knowledge (level B) of another FAO official language, which can be Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Proficiency in multiple languages is advantageous and may enhance communication and collaboration within the organization.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Rome, Italy, at the FAO headquarters. The role is likely to be full-time, and while the job posting does not specify a contract duration, positions within FAO typically involve long-term commitments to projects and initiatives. The organization is known for its international recruitment practices, welcoming candidates from various countries to foster a diverse and inclusive work environment. Compensation and benefits are aligned with FAO standards, which include competitive salaries, health insurance, and opportunities for professional development.