Fisheries Officer

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization that operates in over 40 countries, dedicated to the belief that a better world is possible. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps focuses on providing assistance in disaster situations and hardship, partnering with communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities. In South Sudan, Mercy Corps has been active since 2005, working on behalf of displaced and disenfranchised populations affected by ongoing conflict. The organization is funded by various donors, including the UK Department for International Development, Swiss Development Cooperation, the European Union, NORAD, and private foundations, enabling it to empower communities to recover from crises and improve their livelihoods.

Job Overview:
The Fisheries Officer (FO) will play a crucial role in the Sustainable Agricultural Development Project (SADEP), which aims to enhance resilience, food, and nutrition security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security for rural communities in South Sudan. The FO will lead the implementation of fisheries-related interventions, providing technical guidance on sustainable fisheries and aquaculture practices. This position requires collaboration with project teams, government counterparts, community-based organizations, and private sector partners to promote sustainable fisheries management and improve livelihoods in fishing communities. The FO will also be responsible for stakeholder engagement and ensuring that community voices are heard in decision-making processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Fisheries Officer will have a range of responsibilities, including:

• Technical Leadership and Fisheries Management: Leading the design and implementation of fisheries interventions, providing technical guidance on sustainable practices, and advising communities on best practices for enhancing productivity and sustainability.
• Governance, Policy, and Resource Management: Contributing to fisheries policy and governance frameworks, working with various stakeholders to strengthen resource management, and supporting participatory approaches to fisheries management.
• Training, Facilitation, and Stakeholder Engagement: Conducting trainings and workshops, facilitating knowledge sharing, and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders.
• Data Collection, Analysis, and Reporting: Collecting and analyzing fisheries data, preparing technical reports, and supporting project monitoring and evaluation efforts.
• Safeguarding Responsibilities: Integrating safeguarding practices into work, promoting open communication, and encouraging team members to report concerns.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Management, Fisheries Science, Aquaculture, or a related field from a reputable university. They should have a minimum of 5 years of practical experience in implementing fisheries interventions, with extensive knowledge of fisheries and conservation strategies. Strong interpersonal skills, effective communication abilities in English, and experience working with diverse stakeholders are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate experience in participatory approaches and have a solid understanding of policy and governance related to fisheries management.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Natural Resource Management, Fisheries Science, or Aquaculture is required. This educational background should be from a reputable institution, ensuring that the candidate has a solid foundation in the principles and practices related to fisheries management and sustainable resource use.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of practical experience in implementing fisheries interventions, particularly in contexts similar to South Sudan. Candidates should have demonstrable knowledge of sustainable fisheries management and conservation strategies, as well as experience working with government agencies, NGOs, and community-based organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with strong written and verbal communication skills. Additional language skills relevant to the local context may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Juba and may require up to 40% field travel to support project delivery, including travel to potentially insecure locations. Mercy Corps promotes ongoing learning, allowing team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. The organization is committed to equal employment opportunities and maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment, adhering to safeguarding principles and ethical standards.