Livestock Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is a specialized agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. Its mission is 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. In Sierra Leone, FAO collaborates with various UN agencies, including UNICEF, WFP, and WHO, to implement programs aimed at improving nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security, climate resilience, and livelihoods, particularly for vulnerable populations such as women, youth, and children.

Job Overview:
The Livestock Specialist position is critical within the framework of the Joint United Nations Nutrition Programme (UNN) in Sierra Leone. This role involves providing technical leadership and expertise in livestock-related interventions, focusing on enhancing food security and nutrition through sustainable agricultural practices. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the FAO Representative and collaborate with various stakeholders, including government ministries, local authorities, and community groups. The specialist will be responsible for designing and implementing interventions that promote climate-resilient and nutrition-sensitive livestock production systems, thereby contributing to the overall goals of the UNN program.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Livestock Specialist will undertake a variety of tasks, including leading the planning and implementation of livestock interventions such as poultry, apiculture, and small livestock systems. They will develop intervention models that align with climate-resilient and nutrition-sensitive agriculture, promote integrated farming systems, and deliver training programs on good animal husbandry practices. The specialist will strengthen extension services through farmer field schools and demonstrations, support the identification of beneficiaries with a focus on vulnerable groups, and promote community-based approaches to livestock management. Additionally, they will coordinate disease prevention measures, enhance livestock productivity through better feeding practices and improved breeds, and facilitate market linkages between producers and buyers. The role also involves developing technical specifications for procurement, monitoring field activities, preparing project reports, and ensuring alignment of livestock interventions with project objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Production, Animal Science, Veterinary Science, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in livestock production and rural development projects is required. Candidates should have a working knowledge of English at Level C and must be nationals of Sierra Leone. The FAO core competencies expected include results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Animal Production, Animal Science, or Veterinary Science. It is essential that the degree is obtained from an institution recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in livestock production and rural development projects. Candidates should have strong experience in poultry and/or apiculture systems, livestock extension and training, and integrated farming systems. Experience in community-based livestock programs and results-based project implementation is also essential.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, with a working knowledge at Level C being required. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not specified as a requirement.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. 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 appointment is subject to security clearances. For additional employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.