One Health Project Coordinator

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 combat hunger and achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all. Established in 1945, FAO operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to improving agricultural productivity, ensuring sustainable food systems, and enhancing rural development. The FAO Türkiye Office (FETUR) specifically supports national priorities in agriculture, food systems, and rural development through technical assistance, capacity development, and institutional strengthening. The organization is committed to promoting sustainable practices and enhancing the resilience of food systems in Türkiye, particularly in the context of health threats and pandemics.

Job Overview:
The One Health Project Coordinator will play a crucial role in the implementation of the project 'Türkiye One Health Shield: Strengthening Pandemic Preparedness Through Integrated Response'. This project aims to enhance Türkiye's capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to health threats by integrating human, animal, and environmental health systems. The coordinator will be responsible for strengthening multisectoral coordination mechanisms and ensuring the operationalization of the One Health approach within the country. This position requires a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of health systems and the ability to foster collaboration among various stakeholders, including government ministries, international organizations, and local partners. The coordinator will also focus on developing national strategies and action plans that align with the One Health framework, ensuring that all sectors work together effectively to address health threats.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The One Health Project Coordinator will have a wide range of responsibilities, including: coordinating and supporting the implementation of project activities in accordance with FAO procedures and donor requirements; facilitating multisectoral coordination among relevant ministries and stakeholders; supporting the establishment and operationalization of the National One Health Coordination Mechanism; contributing to the development of Terms of Reference (ToR) and coordination protocols; assisting in the revision of national One Health strategies and preparedness frameworks; conducting legal and regulatory analyses; developing integrated surveillance systems; contributing to the design and use of digital tools for coordination and knowledge sharing; implementing monitoring and evaluation processes; organizing capacity development activities such as trainings and workshops; conducting workforce and institutional capacity assessments; engaging stakeholders from government, academia, and international partners; preparing technical reports and communication materials; representing the project in technical meetings; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or PhD) in veterinary medicine, food safety, environmental health, public health, or related fields. Additionally, they should have at least 7 years of relevant professional experience in One Health, food safety, veterinary health, environmental health, or related areas. A working knowledge of English (Level C) and Turkish is mandatory, and candidates must be nationals of Türkiye. The position requires strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, as well as experience in project coordination and stakeholder engagement.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, either a Master’s or PhD, in fields such as veterinary medicine, food safety, environmental health, public health, or other related disciplines. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of the One Health approach and for effectively coordinating the various aspects of the project.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience in areas related to One Health, food safety, veterinary health, or environmental health. This experience should include working with international organizations, preferably UN agencies, and should demonstrate a strong understanding of public health, animal health, and environmental systems. Experience in project coordination, implementation, and reporting is essential, as is experience in stakeholder engagement and inter-institutional coordination.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position are English and Turkish, with a working knowledge of English at Level C being required. Proficiency in both languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration with various stakeholders involved in the project. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not explicitly required.

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. It is important to note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED). The appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, as well as meeting any residency or visa requirements and security clearances.