Food Safety and Quality Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is a specialized agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims 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. FAO's mission is to eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, make agriculture, forestry, and fisheries more productive and sustainable, reduce rural poverty, and enable inclusive and efficient agricultural and food systems. The Regional Office for Africa (RAF) plays a crucial role in leading FAO's response to regional priorities for food security, agriculture, and rural development, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to programs and developing strategic responses to regional challenges.

Job Overview:
The Food Safety and Quality Officer position is critical for the effective management of food safety and official food control measures, which are essential for strengthening food systems at both national and regional levels. The role involves the development, implementation, and continuous enforcement of science-based regulatory frameworks and risk management strategies. The officer will promote good food safety practices and hygienic manufacturing practices throughout the entire value chain, ensuring alignment with Codex Alimentarius standards. The position also requires capacity-building activities focused on Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures, engagement with the Codex Alimentarius Commission, and support for trade facilitation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The officer will also explore complementary approaches such as enhancing informal market oversight, advancing consumer awareness, and integrating food safety with nutrition and One Health initiatives to create inclusive and holistic systems that effectively respond to regional challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Food Safety and Quality Officer will be responsible for conducting research and analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">technical analysis to support the delivery of program projects, products, and services. This includes producing technical information, data, and reports, as well as providing technical support and analysis for various assessments and initiatives. The officer will collaborate in the development of improved tools, systems, and processes, and participate in multidisciplinary teams to promote best practices. Additionally, the officer will support capacity development activities within Member Nations, ensuring the quality and effectiveness of these initiatives. The role also involves promoting knowledge sharing at international meetings and supporting resource mobilization activities in accordance with the FAO Strategic Framework. Specific functions include assessing national food control systems, formulating and implementing national and regional projects, implementing training programs related to food safety, and providing technical assistance to Member Nations regarding food safety provisions of SPS-related trade agreements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in fields such as chemistry, biochemistry, food science, food technology, pharmacology/toxicology, veterinary, public health, or food microbiology. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in managing and implementing food safety programs and public sector policies for food control is required. Proficiency in English (level C) and intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is also necessary. Candidates should demonstrate competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as chemistry, biochemistry, food science, food technology, pharmacology/toxicology, veterinary, public health, or food microbiology. This advanced education is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively manage food safety and quality initiatives.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in the field of food safety and quality management. This experience should include advising on managing and implementing food safety programs and public sector policies for food control. Experience in more than one location or area of work, particularly in field positions, is desirable. Additionally, candidates should have experience in capacity building and training for stakeholders in food safety, quality, and food systems, as well as experience with project formulation and resource mobilization.

Languages:
A working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English is mandatory, along with intermediate knowledge (intermediate proficiency - level B) of another official FAO language such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Accra, Ghana, at the Regional Office for Africa (RAF). It is important to note that the role may involve working under pressure and prioritizing tasks effectively. The position may also require collaboration with various stakeholders, including non-government organizations, civil society organizations, and private sector entities. The FAO offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional development and growth, as well as a commitment to promoting food security and sustainable agricultural practices.