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, providing opportunities for individuals to contribute their volunteer actions towards these goals.

Job Overview:
The FAO Regular Volunteer position is designed for individuals who wish to contribute to the mission of FAO by engaging in volunteer activities that align with the organization's objectives. Volunteers will be assigned to specific fields relevant to FAO's mission and will report to an assigned supervisor. The role is intended to support the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by mobilizing volunteer services to combat hunger and promote food security. Volunteers are expected to adapt to an international multicultural environment, demonstrating good communication skills and a commitment to FAO's values. The position offers a unique opportunity to gain experience in international development and contribute to meaningful projects that impact global food security.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The specific duties and responsibilities of the FAO Regular Volunteer will be outlined in the Terms of Reference (TOR) provided by the hiring office. Generally, volunteers will be expected to assist in various tasks that support FAO's initiatives, which may include conducting research, participating in community outreach programs, assisting in the organization of events, and contributing to the development of educational materials. Volunteers may also be involved in data collection and analysis, reporting on project progress, and collaborating with other team members to achieve project goals. The role requires flexibility and a willingness to take on diverse tasks as needed to support FAO's mission.

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. Additionally, candidates must be nationals of FAO member countries and be at least 18 years old. Strong communication skills and the ability to adapt to an international multicultural environment are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to FAO's core competencies, which include results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

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, international development, or related fields may have an advantage in the selection process. It is important for candidates to provide documentation of their academic qualifications when applying.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated for the FAO Regular Volunteer position, relevant working or research experience in fields related to FAO's mission is highly valued. Candidates who have previously engaged in volunteer work, internships, or academic projects related to agriculture, food security, or international development will be viewed favorably. The ability to demonstrate practical skills and knowledge in these areas can enhance a candidate's application.

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 improve a candidate's competitiveness in the selection process. Proficiency in additional languages can be beneficial, especially in a multicultural environment 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 FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. The organization 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. Selected candidates must have appropriate residence or immigration status in Italy prior to joining FAO. Candidates with family members employed by FAO under any contractual arrangement are not eligible for this volunteer programme. Applications must be submitted through the FAO recruitment portal, and candidates are encouraged to apply well before the deadline.