Livestock Production Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is dedicated to achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. Established in 1945, FAO has grown to include 194 member countries and the European Union, operating in over 130 countries worldwide. FAO's mission is to eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, making agriculture, forestry, and fisheries more productive and sustainable. In Afghanistan, FAO is focused on resilience-building actions across all 34 provinces, aiming to protect agricultural livelihoods and local ecosystems while boosting local production of nutritious foods and cash incomes. The organization plays a crucial role in providing humanitarian assistance and basic needs support to farmers and herders, as outlined in the 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan and the United Nations Strategic Framework for Afghanistan for 2023-2027.

Job Overview:
The Livestock Production Specialist will play a vital role in enhancing livestock productivity through improved production techniques and data-driven extension services tailored to local conditions. The incumbent will work closely with farmers to implement best practices in livestock production, assist in developing production techniques, and analyze data related to livestock growth and health. The position requires collaboration with local authorities and NGOs to align livestock production initiatives with national goals, as well as conducting training sessions for farmers on advanced production techniques and health management. The specialist will also be responsible for assessing the nutritional needs of livestock and developing feeding programs to optimize production, thereby contributing to the overall improvement of livestock productivity in Afghanistan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Livestock Production Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: collaborating with farmers to implement best practices in livestock production; assisting in the development and application of production techniques tailored to local conditions; collecting and analyzing data related to livestock production; monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions aimed at improving livestock productivity; conducting training sessions and workshops for farmers; providing ongoing support and guidance to farmers in adopting new practices; assessing the nutritional needs of livestock; collaborating with local authorities and NGOs; analyzing market trends for livestock products; assisting in the development of marketing strategies; maintaining communication with regional and national coordinators; working closely with other assistants and experts; responding to requests for assistance from farmers; and performing any other related duties as required to support livestock production initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in veterinary science, livestock production, agriculture, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of experience in veterinary or livestock production is required, with at least 2 years of experience with the UN or an international non-governmental organization (INGO) being desirable. A working knowledge of English and local languages (Dari and/or Pashto) at level C is mandatory, and candidates must be nationals of Afghanistan.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in veterinary science, livestock production, agriculture, or a related field. It is essential that the degree is obtained from an institution accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of experience in veterinary or livestock production, with a preference for candidates who have 2 years of experience working with the United Nations or an international non-governmental organization (INGO). This experience should demonstrate a strong understanding of livestock production systems and the ability to implement effective interventions.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English and local languages, specifically Dari and/or Pashto, at level C. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with farmers and stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates should note that the appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. For additional employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website. The position may involve full-time work and is focused on enhancing livestock production in Afghanistan.