FAO Regular Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all. Established in 1945, FAO has over 195 member countries and operates in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO's mission is to end hunger, malnutrition, and food insecurity, and it actively engages in initiatives that support the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly through the transformation of agri-food systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The FAO volunteer" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Regular Volunteer Programme is a key component of this mission, mobilizing volunteers to contribute to these goals and support the 2030 Agenda.

Job Overview:
The FAO Regular Volunteer position offers individuals the opportunity to contribute to the organization's mission of ending hunger and promoting food security. Volunteers will be assigned to specific fields relevant to FAO's work and will report to an assigned supervisor. The role is designed for individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the areas of agriculture, food security, and nutrition. Volunteers will engage in various tasks as outlined in the Terms of Reference (TOR) provided by the hiring office, which may include supporting projects, conducting research, and assisting in community outreach efforts. This position is ideal for those looking to gain experience in international development and contribute to meaningful initiatives that align with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The specific duties and responsibilities of the FAO Regular Volunteer will be determined by the Terms of Reference (TOR) prepared by the hiring office. Generally, volunteers may be expected to perform tasks such as assisting in project implementation, conducting research and analysis, supporting data collection and reporting, engaging with local communities, and contributing to the development of educational materials. Volunteers will also be encouraged to share their knowledge and skills with others, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes learning and growth. Additionally, volunteers will be expected to adhere to FAO's core competencies, which include results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary school education and possess a working knowledge of at least one FAO language, which includes Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish. Knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an asset. Applicants must be nationals of FAO member countries and should be at least 18 years old. Furthermore, candidates should demonstrate the ability to adapt to an international multicultural environment and possess good communication skills. FAO values commitment, respect for all, and integrity and transparency, and candidates are expected to align with these values.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for the FAO Regular Volunteer position is the completion of secondary school education. While higher education is not explicitly required, candidates with additional academic qualifications related to agriculture, food security, nutrition, or international development may have an advantage in the selection process. It is essential for applicants to provide documentation of their academic qualifications when submitting their application.

Experience:
While specific professional experience is not mandated for this volunteer position, relevant working or research experience in fields related to FAO's mission, such as agriculture, food security, or nutrition, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a willingness to learn and contribute to FAO's objectives, and any prior volunteer or internship experience in similar areas will be beneficial. The FAO Regular Volunteer Programme is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to gain practical experience in international development and humanitarian work.

Languages:
A working knowledge of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish) is mandatory for applicants. Knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application. Proficiency in additional languages can be advantageous, especially in multicultural environments where communication with diverse stakeholders is essential.

Additional Notes:
The FAO Regular Volunteer Programme does not provide any remuneration to volunteers, and candidates should be aware that they will not receive any financial compensation for their contributions. FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Selected candidates must have appropriate residence or immigration status in the proposed country of assignment prior to joining the organization. Additionally, candidates with family members employed by FAO under any type of contractual arrangement are not eligible for this volunteer programme. FAO encourages qualified female applicants, nationals from non- and under-represented member countries, and candidates from Low-Income Food-Deficit Countries (LIFDCs), Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Land-locked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to apply. All applications will be treated with strict confidentiality, and only qualified applicants will be contacted for interviews.