Fishery Officer (Aquatic Food Value Chains)

Job Posting Organization:
The Fisheries and Aquaculture Division (NFI) of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is dedicated to addressing the economic, social, institutional, governance, and policy aspects of fisheries and aquaculture. Established to enhance human well-being and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for fishing communities, the division focuses on the collection and dissemination of fishery statistics, management and conservation of aquatic resources, and the development of sustainable fisheries technology. The organization operates globally, emphasizing the protection of the environment and the well-being of vulnerable species and habitats.

Job Overview:
The Fishery Officer (Aquatic Food Value Chains) plays a crucial role within the Value Chain Development Team (NFIMV) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. This position is centered on reducing food loss and waste in aquatic food value chains, promoting the production of value-added products, and implementing sustainable practices in aquatic food production and consumption. The officer will engage in project management and provide advisory services to Member Nations, aiming to enhance production, nutrition, environmental sustainability, and overall life outcomes for communities involved in fisheries and aquaculture. The role requires a blend of research, analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">technical analysis, and project-related services to support the delivery of various programs and initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Fishery Officer will be responsible for researching and analyzing fisheries and aquaculture data, providing access to technical, social, economic, and environmental information to support program delivery. Key duties include producing technical reports and statistics, providing analytical services for studies and projects, and participating in the development of improved methodologies and tools. The officer will also collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, promote best practices, and support capacity development activities within Member Nations. Specific functions include formulating and implementing policy guidelines for Blue Transformation, managing projects aimed at improving aquatic food value chains, advising on food loss reduction, and contributing to capacity-building initiatives. The officer will also engage with international organizations and stakeholders to address aquatic food value chain issues and perform other related duties as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in agricultural or fishery economics, food science or technology, business administration, or other relevant fields related to food value chains. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in food value chain development is required. Proficiency in English (level C) and intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is also mandatory. Competencies such as results focus, teamwork, effective communication, and knowledge sharing are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or its equivalent, in fields pertinent to food value chains, such as agricultural or fishery economics, food science or technology, or business administration. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of aquatic food systems and their economic implications.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in food value chain development and related fields. Experience in multiple locations or areas of work, particularly in field positions, is desirable. Candidates should have a strong background in aquatic food value chain assessment and solutions, particularly regarding food loss and waste. Experience in developing countries and transitional economies is also beneficial, as is experience in organizing international meetings and providing policy and technical guidance in aquatic food value chain development.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English at proficiency level C and intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) at level B. Proficiency in additional languages may be advantageous but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The job posting does not specify a deadline for applications. The position is based in Rome, Italy, and is likely a full-time role given the responsibilities outlined. The FAO is known for its commitment to international cooperation and may consider candidates from various countries, reflecting its global operational scope. Compensation and benefits details are not provided in the job description.