Plant Protection Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is an agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition. The organization works in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members who are dedicated to achieving sustainable agricultural practices and improving food systems globally. FAO's office in Lebanon focuses on addressing the country's food, agriculture, and rural development priorities, collaborating closely with local ministries and stakeholders to enhance food security and agricultural resilience.

Job Overview:
The Plant Protection Specialist position is crucial for providing technical leadership in sustainable plant health management. The role emphasizes the prevention, surveillance, and control of pests and diseases that threaten agricultural production. The specialist will work to strengthen national plant protection systems and promote Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches. This includes enhancing early warning systems and ensuring the responsible use of pesticides in compliance with international standards. The position requires collaboration with national authorities and stakeholders to develop policies and strategies aimed at reducing crop losses and improving resilience against transboundary pests. The specialist will also be involved in capacity building and field implementation, ensuring that interventions are effective and aligned with FAO's objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Plant Protection Specialist will lead the design and implementation of plant protection activities, ensuring they align with IPM principles. Responsibilities include conducting field assessments to identify priority pests and diseases, strengthening national pest monitoring systems, and providing technical guidance on pesticide use. The specialist will develop training programs for farmers and extension officers, support the development of national plant protection policies, and prepare technical reports and project proposals. Coordination with ministries and stakeholders is essential to harmonize interventions and share technical knowledge. The specialist will also contribute to monitoring and evaluation of plant protection activities, ensuring compliance with FAO standards and timely delivery of outputs. Additional responsibilities include participating in multidisciplinary teams for project development, ensuring technical quality assurance, and documenting best practices and lessons learned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in plant protection, entomology, plant pathology, agronomy, or a related field. A minimum of 6 years of relevant professional experience in plant health management, pest and disease surveillance, or IPM implementation is required. Strong technical expertise in plant protection, including pest diagnostics and surveillance methodologies, is essential. Familiarity with FAO standards and proven ability to design and implement field activities are also necessary. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and reporting skills, as well as the ability to coordinate with various stakeholders in the plant health sector.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as plant protection, entomology, plant pathology, or agronomy. Higher educational qualifications must be obtained from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant professional experience in areas such as plant health management, pest and disease surveillance, and the implementation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies. Experience working with government institutions, research bodies, and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector is highly valued.

Languages:
A working knowledge (level C) of English and Arabic is mandatory for this position, as the candidate will be required to communicate effectively in both languages. Proficiency in additional languages is considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve working in a multicultural environment, and candidates should be prepared for potential travel within Lebanon as part of their duties.