Natural Resource Management UN Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) subregional office for Eastern Africa (SFE) was officially established in February 2007 following a hosting agreement with the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. SFE operates in nine countries: Burundi, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, and Uganda. It serves as the FAO representation to the African Union (AU) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), playing a liaison role with two Regional Economic Commissions (RECs) including the Eastern Africa Community (EAC) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). The office is a technical hub responsible for developing, promoting, overseeing, and implementing strategies to address security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, nutrition, agriculture, and rural development priorities in the sub-region. The multidisciplinary team (MDT) within SFE is composed of professional staff and project-based consultants who manage programming, project formulation, operations monitoring, and information management related to regional projects, while also providing policy and technical support to FAO representations in the nine countries.

Job Overview:
The Natural Resource Management UN Volunteer will be integral to the FAO's efforts in Ethiopia, particularly in integrating sustainable Natural Resource Management (NRM) into various programs and projects. Given Ethiopia's reliance on agriculture, addressing NRM challenges such as soil erosion, deforestation, and loss of soil productivity is crucial for enhancing agricultural output and food security. The volunteer will support the development of a Climate Change Program Strategy that aligns with Ethiopia's 10-year perspective plan focused on sustainable NRM and climate change mitigation. This role involves contributing to the design, analysis, monitoring, and knowledge sharing of programs aimed at achieving sustainable food systems and resilient livelihoods. The volunteer will work closely with the Better Environment Unit, which focuses on cross-sectoral issues including forestry, agriculture, and climate change adaptation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Natural Resource Management UN Volunteer include assisting in the formulation and development of programs and project proposals related to sustainable rangeland management and broader NRM initiatives. The volunteer will support the development and maintenance of technical frameworks, tools, systems, and databases. Responsibilities also include contributing to data collection, validation, analysis, and reporting activities through desk research and field visits. The volunteer will assist in developing innovative approaches, strategies, tools, and manuals, and in preparing knowledge products such as studies, publications, and training materials. Additionally, the volunteer will contribute to project reports, proposals, and technical documentation for government counterparts and partners, and support the coordination and administration of assigned programs in accordance with FAO rules and procedures. Liaising with relevant FAO units and participating in missions and capacity-building events are also part of the role.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Natural Resource Management UN Volunteer position should possess a strong understanding of sustainable natural resource management principles and practices. They should have experience in project development and implementation, particularly in the context of agriculture and environmental sustainability. Strong analytical skills and the ability to work with data are essential, as is familiarity with technical frameworks and tools related to NRM. The candidate should demonstrate effective communication skills, both written and verbal, and be able to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

Educational Background:
A degree in environmental science, agriculture, natural resource management, or a related field is required for this position. Advanced degrees or specialized training in sustainable development or climate change adaptation would be advantageous. Knowledge of relevant policies and frameworks governing NRM in Ethiopia and the broader Eastern Africa region is also beneficial.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 1-2 years of relevant experience in natural resource management, project management, or a related field. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of food security and agriculture, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the challenges and opportunities in the Ethiopian agricultural sector will be an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Ethiopia, such as Amharic, is considered an asset and would enhance communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a volunteer role under the UN system, and it may involve a commitment of several months. The role is full-time and based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The volunteer will receive a monthly stipend to cover living expenses, and there may be opportunities for professional development and training during the assignment. The living conditions in Addis Ababa are generally good, with access to various amenities, although the infrastructure may not meet the standards of more developed countries.