GEF Project Design Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. The organization operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working towards sustainable agricultural practices and the improvement of nutrition and food security. FAO's commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to its strategic objectives and operations, focusing on transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The organization plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges such as food security, climate change, and biodiversity loss, and it facilitates access to climate and environmental financing through partnerships with various stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The GEF Project Design Specialist will play a pivotal role in supporting the development and successful implementation of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) portfolio of projects specifically in the English-speaking Caribbean. This position requires close collaboration with countries, country offices, FAO technical officers, and partners to mobilize additional resources under the GEF-9 programming period and beyond. The consultant will oversee the implementation of a selected portfolio of projects across all GEF focal areas, including complex multi-country transboundary initiatives. A significant aspect of this role involves supporting the formulation process of assigned project documents, which entails providing necessary technical inputs and completing relevant sections of the documents in accordance with donor expectations. The consultant will also be responsible for capacity development, offering guidance on technical orientations, and supporting project proponents in developing concept notes and project documents. Furthermore, the role includes ensuring effective project implementation, monitoring, reporting, evaluation, and closure in compliance with GEF requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The GEF Project Design Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: providing technical expertise and input for the development, approval, and delivery of GEF-funded projects for FAO Member Nations; offering strategic thematic advice on GEF programming priorities and approaches; coordinating the identification, design, and formulation of projects; contributing to strategic programming of FAO's GEF work; participating in multidisciplinary teams to assist governments in formulating natural resource and environmental management projects; ensuring quality control at all stages of the GEF project cycle; identifying opportunities for synergies with other vertical funds projects; pursuing co-financing opportunities; and coordinating with relevant work supported by other donors and development partners. The specialist will also focus on enhancing agricultural production, climate resilience, and sustainable water management in agrifood systems through technical inputs on irrigation development and modernization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in agriculture, livestock production, aquaculture production, environmental science, or a related field, along with at least 5 years of relevant experience in agricultural production. Alternatively, a bachelor's degree in the same fields with at least 7 years of relevant experience is acceptable. A working knowledge of English is mandatory, and candidates should demonstrate strong competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree in agriculture, livestock production, aquaculture production, environmental science, or any related field recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO. Candidates with a bachelor's degree in these fields must have additional years of relevant experience to qualify for the role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in agricultural production if they hold an advanced degree. For those with a bachelor's degree, at least 7 years of relevant experience is necessary. This experience should ideally encompass project design, implementation, and management within the context of environmental and agricultural projects, particularly those funded by international organizations or similar entities.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions where FAO operates or where GEF projects are implemented.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. The role is likely to be full-time, and candidates may be assessed based on their ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment. The consultant will be expected to engage with various stakeholders, including government officials, private sector partners, and other development organizations, to ensure the successful implementation of GEF-funded projects. Compensation and benefits details may vary and should be discussed during the recruitment process.