Forestry Officer (Integrated Fire Management)

Job Posting Organization:
The Forestry Division (NFO) is a part of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) which leads the organization's efforts in promoting sustainable forest management. Established to address the multifaceted roles of forests, the division focuses on environmental, social, and economic dimensions of forestry. It plays a crucial role in liaising with Member Nations, civil society, and the private sector to develop effective forest policies and manage conservation issues. The division also emphasizes the importance of forests in mitigating and adapting to climate change. It is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating information regarding the world's forest resources, including the production, trade, and consumption of wood and non-wood forest products. Additionally, the Forestry Division hosts the Global Fire Management Hub (Fire Hub), which collaborates with key partners to enhance countries' capacities for integrated fire management and implements the Assuring the Future of Forests with Integrated Risk Management (AFFIRM) Mechanism. The division operates from the FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP) located in Bangkok, Thailand, and is committed to addressing global forestry challenges through research, policy guidance, and capacity development.

Job Overview:
The Forestry Officer (Integrated Fire Management) position is integral to the Forestry Division's mission, focusing on providing technical support, capacity development, and policy guidance related to integrated fire management. The officer will report to the Senior Forestry Officer/Team Leader of Forests and Climate and will work closely with various members of the NFO and RAP. The role involves conducting research and analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">technical analysis to support program projects and services, producing technical documents and reports, and providing backstopping to field projects. The officer will also collaborate in developing improved tools and systems, participate in multidisciplinary teams, and promote best practices in fire management. The position requires a proactive approach to knowledge sharing and resource mobilization, ensuring that the FAO's strategic objectives are met in the Asia-Pacific region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Forestry Officer (Integrated Fire Management) include conducting comprehensive research and analysis on technical, social, economic, environmental, and institutional aspects related to fire management. The officer will produce a variety of technical documents, data, and reports, and provide technical support for assessments and initiatives. They will collaborate in developing updated tools and systems, participate in multidisciplinary teams, and lead working groups to promote best practices. The officer will also provide technical backstopping for capacity development activities, ensuring quality and effectiveness in policy support and organizational development. Additionally, the officer will serve as the Chief Technical Advisor for the AFFIRM Mechanism, design and implement normative activities in integrated fire management, and advise Member Nations on policies and strategies. They will plan and execute programs in the Asia-Pacific region, support existing fire management networks, and represent FAO in regional coordination activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in forestry or a related field pertinent to integrated fire management. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in fire management, forest or natural resources management, and conservation is required, particularly in developing countries or countries in transition. Proficiency in English (level C) and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) (level B) is also necessary. Candidates should demonstrate competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or its equivalent, in forestry or a closely related field that supports integrated fire management. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of forestry and fire management practices.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in fire management, forest or natural resources management, and conservation. This experience should ideally include work in developing countries or countries in transition, providing the candidate with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in these contexts. Experience in field positions and in analyzing technical and institutional aspects of fire management is highly valued.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English at proficiency level C, which indicates a high level of fluency. Additionally, an intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) at level B is required. This bilingual capability is important for effective communication and collaboration in an international environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is based at the FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP) in Bangkok, Thailand. While the job ad does not specify a deadline for applications, it is important for candidates to apply promptly. The role is likely to be full-time and may involve international collaboration, given the nature of the FAO's work and its global reach. Compensation and benefits details are not provided in the job description, but candidates can expect a competitive package commensurate with their experience and qualifications.