Project Field Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO's mission is to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 Members, including 194 countries and the European Union, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization works closely with governments, civil society, and the private sector to address challenges in agriculture, fisheries, and forestry, promoting sustainable practices and resilience against natural disasters and climate change. FAO's Country Offices provide policy advice, technical assistance, and support to countries, ensuring effective operations aligned with international standards and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.

Job Overview:
The Project Field Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the efficient, coordinated, and timely implementation of project activities in various provinces of the Philippines. This position requires a proactive approach to monitoring project activities, addressing operational challenges, and ensuring alignment with project objectives and schedules. The Project Field Assistant will work closely with the project team to design activities, develop technical materials, and facilitate capacity-building efforts through training and workshops. Additionally, the role involves strengthening partnerships with local government and community organizations to ensure smooth project implementation and effective communication with stakeholders. The Project Field Assistant will report directly to the Assistant FAO Representative (Programme) and will be instrumental in achieving the project's goals of promoting inclusive and climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable livelihoods.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Field Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Monitoring the timely implementation of project activities in assigned provinces, ensuring consistency with project objectives and work plans.
• Proactively addressing operational bottlenecks and providing strategic support to enhance project implementation.
• Preparing and submitting regular progress reports that highlight achievements, challenges, and recommendations.
• Assisting in the design of project activities and the development of technical materials in collaboration with the project team leader and specialists.
• Supporting capacity development efforts by organizing and delivering training and workshops as needed.
• Strengthening partnerships and inter-agency collaboration at the provincial level to facilitate coordinated project implementation.
• Coordinating with provincial and local government partners, stakeholders, and community organizations to ensure smooth execution of project activities.
• Participating in meetings and forums to maintain consistent communication and alignment with stakeholders.
• Carrying out any other duties assigned by the project team leader to support project objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:

• A university degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Community Development/Organizing, Development Studies, or related fields.
• At least three years of relevant experience in fisheries or rural development sectors, including programme management, implementation, capacity building, and coordination with government structures, NGOs, and UN agencies.
• Must be a national of the Philippines.
• Working knowledge (level C) of English and Filipino is required. Additionally, candidates should possess FAO core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in a relevant field such as Agriculture, Agribusiness, Community Development/Organizing, or Development Studies. It is essential that the degree is obtained from an institution accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires at least three years of relevant experience in sectors related to fisheries or rural development. This experience should encompass programme management and implementation, capacity building, and coordination with national and regional government structures, NGOs, and UN agencies. Candidates should demonstrate their ability to work effectively in complex humanitarian contexts and adapt to evolving situations.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge (level C) of English and Filipino. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the project and with stakeholders. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates should ensure that their educational qualifications are recognized by the WHED. The appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. This position may involve working in multiple locations within the Philippines, and candidates should be prepared for potential travel as required by project activities.