Agriculture Statistician

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 who work towards improving agricultural productivity, enhancing nutrition, and promoting sustainable management of natural resources. FAO's work is guided by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, focusing on transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, thereby leaving no one behind. The Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia (REU) plays a crucial role in addressing regional priorities for food security and rural development, aligning its activities with the FAO Strategic Framework and the priorities set by the FAO Regional Conference for Europe.

Job Overview:
The Agriculture Statistician position is pivotal in providing technical assistance and training related to agricultural statistics. The incumbent will be responsible for supporting the production cycle of agricultural statistics, which includes survey planning, data collection, analysis, and dissemination of results. This role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including the National Bureau of Statistics of Moldova, to enhance national capacities in agricultural statistics. The Agriculture Statistician will facilitate training workshops, assist in the organization of agricultural surveys, and contribute to the development of methodologies that align with European Union standards. The position demands a proactive approach to capacity development and the ability to work independently while ensuring effective communication and collaboration with national and international partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will undertake a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: facilitating in-country training workshops (both virtual and in-person) to support capacity development activities; assisting in the planning and organization of agricultural census and surveys; developing survey instruments and managing data collection processes; analyzing survey results and preparing dissemination products; computing indicators based on survey data; and ensuring statistical disclosure control for micro-data sharing. Additionally, the Agriculture Statistician will contribute to the preparation of methodological notes and provide any other necessary support for the effective implementation of projects related to agricultural statistics.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, or other relevant fields. A PhD is desirable but not mandatory. Applicants should have at least three years of experience in agricultural statistics or economics, particularly in organizing farm-based surveys and processing agricultural survey data. Candidates with a pertinent PhD may qualify with two years of relevant work experience. Proficiency in English (level C) or Russian is required, with additional languages considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The position requires a university degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, or a related field from a recognized institution. A PhD in a relevant discipline is preferred, as it demonstrates a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex statistical methodologies and agricultural economics.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in agricultural statistics or economics, which includes organizing farm-based surveys, processing and disseminating agricultural survey data, and implementing training programs. Those with a PhD may qualify with only two years of experience, reflecting the advanced knowledge and skills acquired through their doctoral studies. Experience working with national institutions or international organizations in statistical data production is highly valued.

Languages:
Full proficiency in English (level C) or working knowledge of Russian is mandatory for this position. Additionally, limited knowledge (level B) of another FAO official language such as French or Spanish would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate within the diverse linguistic environment of the FAO.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. The role is expected to involve full-time commitment, and candidates should be prepared to engage in international collaboration and capacity-building initiatives. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO standards, and the position may involve travel for training workshops and meetings with stakeholders.