Technical Support for Baseline and Yield Study

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. The organization aims 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. FAO collaborates with various UN agencies, including UNICEF, WFP, and WHO, to implement programs that address food security, nutrition, and sustainable agricultural practices. In Sierra Leone, FAO is actively involved in initiatives that strengthen climate resilience and improve livelihoods, particularly for vulnerable populations such as women, youth, and smallholder farmers.

Job Overview:
The position of Technical Support for Baseline and Yield Study is crucial for the successful implementation of the Joint United Nations Nutrition Programme (UNN) in Sierra Leone. This role involves providing technical and analytical support for baseline assessments and yield study-related activities. The incumbent will work closely with FAO technical teams to prepare, organize, compile, and analyze data related to food and nutrition security. The position requires a strong focus on data management, statistical analysis, and GIS-related support activities. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to the preparation of technical documentation and analytical reports, ensuring that the data collected is accurate and relevant to the program's objectives. This role is essential for generating evidence that will inform decision-making and improve program outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including conducting desk reviews of relevant program documentation, supporting the compilation and organization of baseline-related secondary data, and assisting in the preparation of baseline study methodologies. They will also support the organization of quantitative and qualitative data collection activities, prepare digital data collection tools, and assist in training sessions for data collectors. Monitoring data quality during field data collection, cleaning and validating data, and compiling and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data using statistical software are also key responsibilities. Additionally, the incumbent will support GIS-related activities, prepare technical summaries and reports, and assist in organizing visual documentation related to field activities. The role requires collaboration with FAO technical teams and adherence to organizational guidelines and standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Sociology, Development Economics, Physics, Mathematics/Statistics, Agricultural Economics, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in rural development, research, and livelihoods generation is required. Candidates should have a working knowledge of English at level C and must be nationals of Sierra Leone or residents with a valid work permit. The role demands strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Familiarity with data collection tools and methodologies, as well as experience in conducting trainings, is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in a relevant field such as Sociology, Development Economics, Physics, Mathematics/Statistics, or Agricultural Economics. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of rural development and the analytical skills necessary for conducting baseline assessments and yield studies. Advanced degrees may be considered an advantage, particularly for candidates with significant experience in related fields.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in areas such as rural development, research, and livelihoods generation. Experience working within a UN or international agency, particularly in managing joint projects in a peacebuilding context, is highly desirable. Familiarity with statistical tools and data management practices is essential, as is experience in conducting trainings for data collectors and performing needs assessments. Knowledge of socio-cultural analysis specific to Sierra Leone will also be beneficial.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is a working knowledge of English at level C. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context or the populations served by the program.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Freetown, Sierra Leone, and is part of a collaborative effort involving multiple UN agencies. The role is expected to be full-time, and candidates should be prepared to engage in a dynamic work environment that requires flexibility and adaptability. The assignment may involve fieldwork and collaboration with various stakeholders, including local communities and government entities. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards for similar positions.