Social Protection 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 to defeat hunger and malnutrition. The organization plays a crucial role in achieving the 2030 Agenda through its Strategic Framework, which aims to transform agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. FAO operates in numerous countries worldwide, providing support to governments in developing policies, programs, and projects aimed at achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and reducing hunger and malnutrition. The organization focuses on sustainable management of agricultural, fisheries, and forestry sectors, ensuring that environmental and natural resources are utilized responsibly. FAO's mission is to leave no one behind, emphasizing the importance of social protection as a critical pillar in combating hunger, food insecurity, and rural poverty. The organization is actively involved in the United Nations Joint Programme on Social Protection Phase III in Zambia, which aims to enhance social protection provisions in the country.

Job Overview:
The Social Protection Specialist will play a pivotal role in supporting the implementation, monitoring, and reporting of the United Nations Joint Programme on Social Protection Phase III. This position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government ministries, UN agencies, and civil society organizations, to ensure effective social protection strategies are developed and executed. The incumbent will provide technical, operational, and program management support, working closely with the National Coordinator to facilitate the program's objectives. The role involves planning, coordination, and monitoring of activities related to social protection, ensuring that all operational activities align with the established work plan and budget. The Social Protection Specialist will also engage in partnership development, contribute to strategic document formulation, and ensure that ongoing projects are effectively monitored and evaluated.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Social Protection Specialist will be responsible for a comprehensive set of tasks, including:

• Supporting and contributing to the planning, coordination, and monitoring of activities related to the United Nations Joint Programme on Social Protection.
• Participating in partnership engagements with government entities, bilateral and multilateral donors, NGOs, civil society, and other UN agencies to foster commitment towards extending social protection to rural communities.
• Assisting in the development of strategic documents through consultations with key stakeholders in the agriculture and social protection sectors.
• Contributing to the formulation and preparation of concept notes, work plans, and reports.
• Liaising with internal counterparts to ensure collaboration and monitoring of ongoing social protection projects.
• Participating in the implementation, monitoring, and review of program activities, ensuring alignment with the work plan, budget, and project documentation.
• Facilitating the recording and processing of requests for FAO’s support from government, donors, or other organizations.
• Accompanying field visits to project sites and meetings with donors and government officials as required.
• Tracking budget expenditures for project activities and flagging any variances to the appropriate officer. 1
• Performing any other assigned tasks as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:

• An advanced university degree in development studies, sociology, social work, or any field related to the FAO mandate.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in planning, coordination, and administration support, particularly in social protection and sustainable livelihoods projects.
• A working knowledge of English.
• Candidates must be nationals of Zambia.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as development studies, sociology, social work, or any discipline that aligns with the FAO's mission. It is essential that the educational qualifications are obtained from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The ideal candidate should possess at least 5 years of relevant experience in planning, coordination, and administration support, specifically within the context of social protection and sustainable livelihoods. Experience working with projects in these areas is crucial, and familiarity with UN agencies is considered an added advantage. Candidates should also have experience working in multiple locations or areas of work, demonstrating adaptability and a broad understanding of social protection issues.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered beneficial but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
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 appointment is subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. The position may involve full-time engagement, and candidates are encouraged to visit the FAO employment website for additional opportunities.