Consultant for Fisheries Operations and Technology

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations 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 support the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly in transforming agri-food systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The organization employs a diverse workforce of experts in various fields, including agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and nutrition, to address global challenges related to food and agriculture.

Job Overview:
The position of Consultant for Fisheries Operations and Technology involves providing specialized expertise to support the FAO Fisheries Division (NFI) in promoting sustainable and responsible development of fisheries and aquaculture. The consultant will work on various projects aimed at enhancing the technical and operational capacities of the fishing industry. This includes improving access to better fishing vessel and gear technologies, financial services, and safety measures. The consultant will also be involved in implementing projects related to pollution reduction, fishing operations, and the development of innovative practices that promote sustainable fisheries. The role requires collaboration with FAO members and stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of policies and strategies that align with the FAO's strategic framework and the 2030 Agenda.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a range of tasks, including but not limited to: supporting project formulation in line with FAO’s Strategic Framework; coordinating and administering assigned activities according to FAO rules and donor requirements; providing technical inputs to projects and activities; collecting and analyzing data to inform technical and policy work; performing outreach and communication activities; organizing and participating in external events; collaborating with other FAO divisions and external partners; assisting countries in policy and legislative revisions; and representing NFIFP at meetings. Specific tasks will be defined in the Terms of Reference for each assignment, and may include developing guidelines, manuals, research papers, and training materials.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree relevant to the position, such as in Fisheries, Biology, Environmental Studies, Marine Engineering, or related fields. For COF.REG positions, an advanced degree is required, while PSAs may qualify with a technical diploma and relevant experience. Relevant experience in fishing operations, vessel design, environmental impacts, and pollution reduction is essential. The level of experience required varies by position, with COF.REG positions requiring two to ten years of relevant experience depending on the level, and PSAs requiring one to five years. Candidates should also demonstrate a strong understanding of international instruments and guidelines related to fisheries and sustainable practices.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in relevant fields such as Fisheries, Environmental Studies, Marine Engineering, or Economics. For those applying for PSAs, a university degree or a technical diploma with substantial professional experience may be acceptable. Candidates with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience to qualify for COF.REG positions.

Experience:
The level of experience required for this position varies based on the specific role. For COF.REG positions, candidates should have two to four years of relevant experience for level C, while level B requires at least five years, and level A requires a minimum of ten years. For PSAs, level C requires one to four years of relevant experience, while level B requires at least five years. Experience in project formulation and implementation, particularly in developing countries, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English (level C) and a limited knowledge (level B) of one of the other official FAO languages, which include French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian. For PSA positions, proficiency in one language at level C may be sufficient. Knowledge of additional languages is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The position may involve assignments at FAO's headquarters in Rome, home-based work, or field missions as required. The specific terms of the contract, including duration and seniority level, will be outlined in the Terms of Reference for each assignment. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO standards and may vary based on the consultant's qualifications and experience. Candidates will be assessed against the minimum requirements and competencies outlined in the job description.