International Dairy Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) is an international organization that leads global efforts to combat hunger and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Established in 1945, FAO works with member countries to enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, nutrition, and sustainable management of agriculture, fisheries, livestock, and forestry. The organization operates in over 130 countries and has a mission to eradicate hunger and improve nutrition and food security worldwide. The FAO Subregional Office for the Pacific Islands (FAOSAP) specifically supports 14 Pacific Member Nations, including Tonga, in addressing food security, climate resilience, and rural livelihoods.

Job Overview:
The International Dairy Specialist position is focused on enhancing smallholder dairy production systems in Tonga, specifically under the TCP/TON/4001 project. The role involves working closely with the FAO Sub-Regional Coordinator and the Lead Technical Officer to implement project activities aimed at improving dairy farm management. The specialist will be responsible for overseeing operational aspects of dairy farms, providing technical guidance on reproduction management, nutrition, and herd management, and developing training materials for local staff. The position requires collaboration with local experts and stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of dairy production strategies that align with international best practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of tasks including studying project documents and needs assessments, collaborating with local and international stakeholders, providing operational oversight of dairy farms, guiding reproductive management processes, establishing standard operating procedures for calf-rearing, advising on knowledge management, developing feed budgets, implementing pasture improvement plans, and creating animal identification systems. Additionally, the specialist will deliver hands-on training for farm staff, support educational integration of dairy modules in local colleges, oversee equipment procurement and setup, and provide input for niche dairy product planning. General responsibilities include familiarizing with FAO's communication policies and demonstrating strong documentation skills.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in animal science, veterinary science, dairy production, or a related field recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in dairy farm management or dairy extension services is required, with preference given to candidates with experience in tropical or Pacific Island contexts. Proficiency in English is essential for effective communication and documentation.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree in a relevant field such as animal science, veterinary science, or dairy production. Candidates with a bachelor's degree must have additional professional experience to qualify. The educational qualifications should be from institutions recognized by the IAU/UNESCO, ensuring that the candidate has a solid foundation in the principles and practices relevant to dairy production and management.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant experience in dairy farm management or dairy extension services. Candidates with experience in tropical or Pacific Island contexts will have an advantage, as this role involves working in specific environmental and cultural settings that may affect dairy production practices. The experience should demonstrate a strong understanding of dairy operations and the ability to implement effective management strategies.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for communication, documentation, and collaboration with international and local stakeholders. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances communication with local communities or stakeholders in Tonga.

Additional Notes:
The position is likely to be full-time and may involve a contract duration that aligns with the project timeline. The role is focused on national recruitment, specifically targeting candidates who are familiar with the local context in Tonga. Compensation and benefits details are not specified in the job ad, but candidates can expect a competitive salary commensurate with their experience and qualifications.