National Project Technical Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is dedicated to defeating hunger and improving 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 grown to include 194 member countries and operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization works to ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO's Subregional Office for West Africa focuses on developing and implementing strategies to address agri-food systems and rural development priorities in the region, collaborating with various regional institutions and country offices to enhance food security and agricultural development.

Job Overview:
The National Project Technical Specialist will play a crucial role in the GCF funded project aimed at effective climate risk management in Sierra Leone. This three-year project focuses on assessing climate stresses in key sectors, conducting stakeholder engagements, and developing a Full National Adaptation Plan (NAP). The Specialist will provide technical expertise at the country level, supporting the National Project Coordinator (NPC) in project implementation, coordination, and stakeholder engagement. The role requires a deep understanding of climate change adaptation, project management, and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of project objectives. The Specialist will also be responsible for ensuring gender integration in all project activities and will report to both the FAO Representative in Sierra Leone and the Assistant FAO Representative on programmatic issues.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Project Technical Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of tasks including: providing technical backstopping and operational guidance to the NPC and Project Management Unit (PMU); supporting the NPC in planning and adjusting project activities, work plans, and budgets; drafting and reviewing technical aspects of Terms of Reference (TORs) for consultancies; assisting in technical coordination and monitoring of projects; organizing training and workshops; documenting events and managing records; executing the NAP process at the country level; advising government and stakeholders on climate adaptation policies; ensuring integration of climate risk considerations into national development planning; tracking progress using indicators; facilitating multi-stakeholder consultations; building institutional capacities; preparing national project technical progress reports; and representing the project in national and international forums.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in climate change, project management, business administration, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of experience in project management and implementation related to the environment and climate is required. Candidates should have a working knowledge of English and must be nationals of Sierra Leone. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, the ability to synthesize data, and extensive experience in coordinating climate change projects.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in climate change, project management, business administration, or a related area is required. A degree in land governance is considered an added advantage. Educational qualifications must be from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in project management and implementation, particularly in the fields of environment and climate change. Experience in coordinating GCF or global projects is highly desirable, as is previous work with UN or international organizations.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an advantage, particularly in the context of stakeholder engagement and communication.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and involves working closely with national and international consultants. The appointment will be subject to medical fitness certification, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates are encouraged to visit the FAO employment website for additional opportunities.