Climate Change Programme Specialist

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 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. In Timor-Leste, FAO focuses on developing policies, programs, and projects to enhance food security, reduce hunger and malnutrition, and promote sustainable management of agricultural, fisheries, and forestry sectors.

Job Overview:
The Climate Change Programme Specialist will play a pivotal role in leading the implementation of the project 'Enhancing Early Warning Systems (EWS) to build greater resilience to hydro-meteorological hazards in Timor-Leste'. This project is funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and is part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing resilience in agrifood systems through integrated landscape management and climate resilience. The specialist will work closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies and partners, to ensure effective project planning, implementation, and coordination. The role requires a strong focus on climate resilience and natural resource management, contributing to the overall objectives of FAO Timor-Leste's programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Climate Change Programme Specialist will be responsible for leading the project implementation, ensuring effective planning and coordination with UNEP and government agencies. Key responsibilities include optimizing project impact by supporting related initiatives, developing resource mobilization strategies, and contributing to the coherence of FAO activities in Timor-Leste. The specialist will also manage a multidisciplinary team, oversee project governance arrangements, prepare contracts for technical inputs, and promote knowledge sharing in climate information services and disaster risk management. Additionally, the specialist will conduct assessments, develop project plans, and represent FAO at international meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in climate change, natural resources management, agricultural sciences, development economics, or a related field from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in technical cooperation, policy advice, and analysis related to food security, agriculture, and rural development is required. Proficiency in English at a working knowledge level (C) is also necessary. Candidates should demonstrate strong competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, and building effective relationships.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree is required, specifically in fields such as climate change, natural resources management, agricultural sciences (including crops, livestock, fisheries, and forestry), or development economics. The degree must be from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO, ensuring that the educational background aligns with the technical demands of the position.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in technical cooperation-related activities, particularly in policy advice and analysis concerning nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food and nutrition security, agriculture, rural development, fisheries, and forestry. Experience in monitoring and evaluating policies and programs is also essential. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in diverse locations and with multidisciplinary teams, particularly in field positions.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory, with proficiency at level C being required. While English is the primary language for this position, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly languages relevant to the region or the stakeholders involved in the projects.

Additional Notes:
This position is likely to be full-time and may involve working with international and national stakeholders. The role is crucial for enhancing climate resilience in Timor-Leste and may involve contract durations that align with project timelines. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with FAO's policies and standards, and the position may require travel within the country and potentially to international meetings.