Vulnerability Analysis and Mapping (VAM) Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of eradicating hunger and improving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security globally. WFP's vision emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and a healthy work environment, where employees are selected based on merit and are encouraged to grow professionally and personally through various development programs. WFP has been recognized for its efforts, notably receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, highlighting its significant role in humanitarian efforts worldwide. The organization is also committed to fostering a diverse workforce that reflects the communities it serves, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all individuals regardless of their background.

Job Overview:
The VAM Officer position at WFP is crucial for contributing to the evidence base that supports food security and nutrition policies and programs. This role involves conducting needs assessments and situation analyses, designing programs, targeting beneficiaries, ensuring cost-effectiveness, and enhancing operational efficiency. The VAM Officer will work closely with various stakeholders to develop systems and tools for monitoring food assistance needs, ensuring that the methodologies employed are innovative and aligned with best practices. The position requires a proactive approach to data gathering and monitoring, ensuring that high-quality standards are maintained throughout the process. The VAM Officer will also play a key role in capacity building, helping WFP staff, partners, and national governments to conduct vulnerability analyses that inform preparedness and response activities. This position is based in Bridgetown, Barbados, and reports directly to the Head of RAM/VAM, making it integral to the strategic planning and implementation of WFP’s initiatives in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the VAM Officer include, but are not limited to:

• Contributing to the development of VAM projects and activities, ensuring alignment with WFP policies and guidance.
• Supporting the creation of systems and tools for monitoring and assessing food assistance needs, utilizing innovative methodologies.
• Developing food security and vulnerability analyses and preparing timely reports to inform decision-making on country strategies and programs.
• Coordinating data gathering and monitoring systems, maintaining rigorous quality standards.
• Liaising with internal and external partners to monitor ongoing projects, ensuring effective collaboration and timely delivery while identifying potential risks.
• Supporting the capacity building of WFP staff, partners, and national governments in conducting vulnerability analyses.
• Providing support to partners focusing on food security and nutrition, facilitating the sharing of experiences and best practices.
• Guiding and supervising junior staff, acting as a point of reference for analysis and queries.
• Acting in an emergency response capacity as required to meet food assistance needs. 1
• Performing other duties as required to support the mission of WFP.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Economics, Food Security, Statistics, Data Science, Public Health/Nutrition, Geography, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of relevant work experience and/or training may be considered. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in statistical tools and methods relevant to food security analysis, as well as practical expertise gained through participation in multiple assessments in various countries. A strong understanding of WFP's vulnerability mapping systems and emergency assessment standards is also essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Economics, Food Security, Statistics, Data Science, Public Health/Nutrition, Geography, or a related discipline. Candidates with a first university degree may be considered if they have additional years of related work experience and/or relevant training courses. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of food security and vulnerability analysis, which are central to the role.

Experience:
The VAM Officer position requires demonstrated experience in food security analysis and mapping, with a strong emphasis on practical expertise gained through involvement in multiple assessments. Candidates should have a proven track record of designing, collecting, and analyzing data related to food security, as well as familiarity with WFP's vulnerability mapping systems and emergency assessment standards. Experience in coordinating with various stakeholders and partners is also essential, as the role involves significant collaboration and communication.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, with a level C proficiency required. If the duty station's language differs from English, fluency in that language is also necessary. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in diverse environments.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Bridgetown, Barbados, with a deadline for applications set for 11 March 2026 at 23:59 GMT-04:0

• The World Food Programme is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. The organization does not charge any fees for applications or recruitment processes, ensuring that all candidates can apply without financial barriers. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks to ensure a safe and inclusive work environment. WFP emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion, actively encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.