Forestry Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP) of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This office is dedicated to addressing regional priorities related to security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, agriculture, and rural development. Established to lead FAO's response to these priorities, RAP oversees a network of Country Offices and the Subregional Office for the Pacific Islands. The organization emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to its programs, ensuring that regional priorities are integrated into the FAO's strategic framework and operational activities. RAP collaborates with various divisions, offices, and centers at FAO headquarters to develop and implement strategies that align with regional needs. The office also plays a crucial role in preparing for Regional Conferences and Statutory Bodies, supporting the formulation and implementation of Country Programmes and Projects, and maintaining relationships with regional institutions and UN bodies to promote sustainable development initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Forestry Officer position is integral to the Forestry and Biodiversity Module at RAP, located in Bangkok, Thailand. This role focuses on providing applied technical support and normative work in sustainable forest management. The officer will engage in program development and implementation, particularly in areas such as nursery management, restoration, reforestation, and silvicultural strategies that balance economic, environmental, and social functions. The position requires hands-on technical backstopping to field projects and collaboration with government counterparts to translate FAO's regional priorities into effective forestry practices. The officer will be expected to conduct research, analyze data, and produce technical reports that support the delivery of program projects and services. Additionally, the role involves participating in multi-disciplinary teams, leading working groups, and promoting best practices in forestry management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Forestry Officer will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including researching and analyzing technical, social, economic, environmental, and institutional information to support program delivery. The officer will produce various technical documents, reports, and input for web pages. Providing technical support and analysis for assessments, studies, and initiatives is essential, as is offering technical backstopping to field projects. The officer will collaborate in developing improved tools, systems, and databases, and participate in multi-disciplinary teams to promote best practices. Additionally, the officer will support capacity development activities, including policy support and organizational development, and promote knowledge sharing at international meetings. The role also involves supporting resource mobilization activities in line with FAO's Corporate Strategy.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in forestry, forest management, forest sciences, or a closely related discipline with a strong forestry focus. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in forestry is required, with demonstrated technical work in sustainable forest management, including the management of natural and/or planted forests. Candidates should have a working knowledge of English (proficiency – level C) and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) at an intermediate proficiency level (level B).

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master's degree or equivalent, in forestry or a closely related field. This educational foundation should emphasize a strong focus on forestry principles and practices, equipping candidates with the necessary knowledge to address complex forestry challenges.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of relevant experience in the field of forestry. This experience must include demonstrated technical work in sustainable forest management, showcasing the ability to manage both natural and planted forests effectively. Experience in field positions and working in diverse locations is desirable, as it enhances the candidate's understanding of various forestry contexts and challenges.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a requirement for candidates to have a working knowledge (level C) of the language. Additionally, candidates should possess intermediate knowledge (level B) of another FAO official language, which could include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. This bilingual capability is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the international context of FAO's operations.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Bangkok, Thailand, and is part of the Forestry and Biodiversity Module within the Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific. While the job ad does not specify a deadline for applications, it is important for candidates to be aware of the competitive nature of such positions and to apply promptly. The role is likely to be full-time, and candidates may be assessed on their ability to work collaboratively within a diverse team and contribute to the organization's mission of promoting sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation.