Technical Specialist in Aquaculture

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is an international organization that leads global 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 works in over 130 countries, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to achieving food security for all. The organization collaborates with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to develop and implement strategies that promote sustainable agricultural practices and rural development. In Iraq, FAO's office focuses on addressing food, agriculture, and rural development challenges, particularly in the context of post-conflict recovery and resilience building.

Job Overview:
The Technical Specialist in Aquaculture will play a crucial role in the implementation of the TCP/IRQ/4001 project, which aims to establish demonstration sites for closed fish farming systems, specifically Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS). This position requires a deep understanding of aquaculture practices and the ability to design and operationalize RAS systems tailored to the specific conditions in Iraq. The incumbent will be responsible for coordinating with FAO experts and stakeholders to ensure that the technical design aligns with both global standards and local feasibility. Additionally, the role involves capacity building through workshops and training sessions aimed at empowering local fish farmers and extension officers. The successful candidate will also be tasked with drafting technical specifications, preparing progress reports, and overseeing the implementation of RAS systems to ensure they meet FAO standards and project objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Technical Specialist include:

• Technical Design & Specifications: Develop detailed technical specifications for RAS systems based on global best practices and local feasibility, ensuring compliance with environmental and social safeguards.
• Coordination & Oversight: Liaise with FAO experts (regional and HQ) and the Program Management Unit, follow up on aquaculture activities under the Iraq program, and provide technical support as needed. Organize and facilitate stakeholder meetings and consultations.
• Capacity Building: Lead the design and delivery of workshops and training sessions on RAS and sustainable aquaculture practices, prepare training materials, agendas, and evaluation tools, and ensure knowledge transfer and mentoring for local stakeholders.
• Reporting & Documentation: Draft technical specifications and documentation for demonstration sites, prepare progress reports, meeting minutes, and a final consultancy report with recommendations.
• Implementation & Site Establishment: Lead and oversee the implementation of RAS systems, ensuring all components are installed, tested, and operational. Coordinate and supervise field activities required for establishing two RAS demonstration sites, including site preparation, equipment setup, system calibration, and operational readiness. Provide on-site technical support during installation phases to ensure compliance with FAO standards and project objectives. Monitor system performance during initial operation and adjust technical parameters to optimize functionality.

Required Qualifications:
The minimum requirements for this position include:

• An advanced university degree in Aquaculture, Fisheries, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in RAS design, implementation, and project coordination.
• A working knowledge of English and Arabic.
• The candidate must be a national of Iraq. Additionally, candidates should possess FAO core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing and continuous improvement. Technical and functional skills required include work experience in multiple locations or areas of work, deep knowledge of RAS systems, fish nutrition, and sustainable aquaculture practices, as well as the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced university degree in Aquaculture, Fisheries, or a related field. It is essential that the educational qualifications are obtained from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED). This ensures that the candidate's educational background meets the standards set by the FAO and is recognized internationally.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in RAS design, implementation, and project coordination. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully managing aquaculture projects and engaging with stakeholders in the field. Experience in capacity building and training delivery is also essential, as the role involves leading workshops and mentoring local stakeholders in sustainable aquaculture practices.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position are English and Arabic. Candidates must demonstrate strong communication skills in both languages, as effective communication is crucial for stakeholder engagement and capacity building. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. 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 should be aware that appointment is subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. The FAO emphasizes the importance of ethical recruitment practices and encourages candidates to apply through the official channels.