Senior Driver

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is a specialized agency dedicated to addressing global issues related to agriculture, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and rural development. Established in 1945, FAO operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members worldwide. Its mission is to eradicate hunger, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. FAO works closely with governments and other stakeholders to develop policies and programs that enhance food security and promote responsible management of natural resources. The organization is committed to environmental sustainability and aims to ensure that all people have regular access to sufficient high-quality food for active and healthy lives.

Job Overview:
The Senior Driver position is crucial for the effective operation of the FAO Representation in Asmara, Eritrea. The primary responsibility of the Senior Driver is to provide safe and reliable transportation for the Country Office staff, including high-ranking officials and visitors. This role involves not only driving but also ensuring that all transportation-related needs are met efficiently. The Senior Driver is expected to maintain the assigned vehicle in excellent condition, log all trips and expenses, and assist with administrative tasks as needed. The position requires a high level of professionalism, as the Senior Driver often serves as the first point of contact for visitors and must represent the organization positively. The role also includes training junior drivers and supporting corporate initiatives aimed at reducing emissions and promoting sustainability.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Driver will be responsible for the following duties:

• Drive the Head of Office and visitors, including high-ranking officials, ensuring their safety and comfort.
• Meet official personnel and visitors at the airport, assisting with immigration and customs formalities, hotel check-in, and other local arrangements.
• Ensure the local transportation needs of the FAO Representative are met at all times, maintaining the safety and technical soundness of the vehicle.
• Log official trips, daily mileage, gas consumption, and vehicle-related expenditures.
• Assist administrative staff in monitoring log books and maintenance records.
• Perform day-to-day maintenance of the assigned vehicle, including checking oil, water, battery, and tires, and arranging for necessary repairs.
• Handle formalities in case of accidents, ensuring compliance with organizational and local regulations.
• Collect and deliver mail, documents, and other communications, maintaining accurate records.
• Assist with simple clerical duties such as answering calls and making photocopies. 1
• Brief and train junior drivers in their responsibilities. 1
• Support corporate initiatives to enhance environmental responsibility. 1
• Perform other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Education: Secondary school education is required.
• Possession of a valid driver's license is mandatory.
• Experience: A minimum of four years of work experience as a driver with a flawless and safe driving record is essential.
• Languages: Proficiency in English (working knowledge - level C) is required.
• Residency: Candidates must be nationals of Eritrea or possess a valid visa/work permit and reside within commuting distance of Asmara at the time of application.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a secondary school education. This foundational education is necessary to ensure that the candidate possesses the basic knowledge and skills required for the role, including understanding driving regulations and maintaining vehicle safety.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of relevant work experience as a driver. Candidates should have a proven track record of safe driving and reliability. Experience in a similar role, particularly within an international organization or governmental agency, is highly desirable.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is a working knowledge of English at proficiency level C. Additionally, it is desirable for candidates to have intermediate knowledge (level B) of another official FAO language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, which would enhance communication capabilities within the organization.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the General Service Staff category, and candidates must be nationals of Eritrea or possess a valid work permit. The role is full-time, and the selected candidate will be expected to work extended hours as necessary. The organization emphasizes punctuality and reliability, and candidates should be prepared to demonstrate these qualities. Furthermore, candidates should provide evidence of completion or exemption from National Service, which is a requirement for employment in Eritrea.