National GEDSI, Community Engagement and Inclusion Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to lead international efforts aimed at achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and nutrition for all. FAO's mission is to support the transformation of agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The organization plays a crucial role in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, focusing on better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, ensuring that no one is left behind. FAO operates in numerous countries worldwide, with a significant presence in Timor-Leste, where its work is guided by the Country Programming Framework (CPF). The CPF emphasizes three key areas: Nutrition, Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture; Economic Opportunities and Decent Work for All; and Sustainable Management of Natural Resources and Resilience to Climate Change. Recently, FAO Timor-Leste received a Project Preparation Grant from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to develop a project aimed at restoring degraded landscapes and enhancing biodiversity-friendly agrifood systems in the region, specifically targeting the Seloi Craic Lagoon and the Loes catchment area. The project is designed to address critical environmental and social challenges while promoting sustainable livelihoods.

Job Overview:
The National GEDSI, Community Engagement and Inclusion Specialist will play a vital role in the successful development and implementation of the project aimed at restoring degraded landscapes and promoting biodiversity-friendly agrifood systems in Timor-Leste. This position requires a part-time commitment and involves working closely with various stakeholders to ensure inclusive and meaningful engagement throughout the project lifecycle. The specialist will be responsible for supporting the development of the Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) and facilitating stakeholder engagement activities, ensuring that the voices of local communities, particularly marginalized groups, are heard and considered in project planning and execution. The role also includes conducting gender analyses and developing a Gender Action Plan (GAP) to ensure that project interventions are equitable and beneficial to all social groups. The specialist will collaborate with the International Project Design Expert and other consultants to ensure that gender and social considerations are integrated into the project design and implementation processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National GEDSI, Community Engagement and Inclusion Specialist will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Collaborating with the Project Preparation Grant (PPG) team to identify and address stakeholder engagement needs.
• Supporting the development of the Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) as part of the Project Document.
• Establishing and nurturing relationships with stakeholders in the project's intervention areas to facilitate inclusive engagement.
• Assisting in organizing and conducting stakeholder engagement activities, including inception and validation workshops.
• Utilizing existing tools and systems to manage stakeholder outreach effectively.
• Ensuring timely responses to stakeholder inquiries and requests.
• Coordinating stakeholder engagement activities through institutional communication and participatory approaches.
• Compiling gender analyses based on literature and field data to understand gender dynamics.
• Developing a Gender Action Plan (GAP) to mainstream gender considerations into project design and implementation. 1
• Organizing gender-focused working groups and interventions for stakeholder engagement. 1
• Drafting sections of the ProDoc relevant to gender and socio-environmental elements. 1
• Identifying potential negative implications for women and proposing mitigation strategies. 1
• Analyzing data on ethnic minorities and drafting relevant sections for the ProDoc.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a diploma or equivalent qualification in a relevant field such as community development, education, public administration, or a related area. Significant relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal qualifications. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in facilitating participatory processes for stakeholder engagement and community development. A working knowledge of English and Tetun, both written and spoken, is essential. Candidates must be nationals of Timor-Leste.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a diploma or equivalent qualification in fields related to community development, education, public administration, or other relevant areas. Candidates with significant relevant experience may be considered even if they do not meet the formal educational qualifications. It is important that the educational qualifications are recognized by accredited institutions listed in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in facilitating participatory processes of stakeholder engagement and community development. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders and manage community engagement initiatives successfully. Candidates should also have a proven track record of delivering results within deadlines and working collaboratively in team settings.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English and Tetun, both written and spoken. Proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication with stakeholders and for the successful execution of project activities. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates should be aware that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from accredited institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED). The appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. This position is part-time and may involve working closely with various stakeholders, including local communities and project partners.