Project Officer (Farmer Field School)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO's mission is 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. With 195 Members, including 194 countries and the European Union, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on providing policy advice and support to countries in areas related to food and agriculture, facilitated through partnerships and resources to deliver technical assistance and develop capacities. FAO Country Offices work under corporate guidance to ensure effective operations and management, advocating for policies and investments in food security and sustainable agriculture.

Job Overview:
The Project Officer (Farmer Field School) will be based in the FAO Representation in Damascus, Syria, and will report to the FAO Representative in Syria and the Chief Technical Advisor. The primary responsibility of the Project Officer is to support the development, expansion, and coordination of FAO Syria's Farmer Field School (FFS) program. This includes ensuring a robust FFS curriculum, training, and supervision of all FFS activities under the 'Building Local Resilience in Syria (BLRS)' project and other related projects. The role is crucial in contributing to sustainable agriculture and food security, focusing on livestock production, plant production, and protection, as well as value chain activities. The Project Officer will also lead and review the technical work of FFS implementers, ensuring that the program aligns with FAO's objectives and international standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Officer will undertake a variety of key functions, including researching and analyzing technical issues related to the development, implementation, and evaluation of assigned programs/projects. They will assist in reviewing relevant documents and reports, produce technical information and data, and provide technical support for various assessments and studies. The role involves collaborating in the development of improved tools and systems, overseeing the updating of databases and web pages, and participating in multidisciplinary teams. Specific functions include providing support for FFS components, developing monitoring and reporting frameworks, conducting research and data collection, preparing progress reports, and advocating for best practices in FFS at international meetings. The Project Officer will also support FFS trainings and workshops, contribute to the establishment of FFS activities for prioritized crops and livestock, and ensure gender integration within the FFS methodology.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as political sciences, business administration, agricultural economics, development economics, rural sociology, food security, nutrition, or sustainable agriculture. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in technical cooperation-related activities, policy advice, and analysis related to food and nutrition security, agriculture, and rural development is required. Proficiency in English (level C) and intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as political sciences, agricultural economics, or sustainable agriculture. An advanced degree in plant protection and production is desirable, indicating a strong foundation in agricultural practices and policies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in technical cooperation-related activities, particularly in areas related to food and nutrition security, agriculture, and rural development. Experience in running training of trainers (ToFs), curriculum development, and facilitating FFS is highly desirable. Candidates should also have experience working with inter-governmental bodies and multidisciplinary teams, as well as in field positions.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a working knowledge (level C) required. Additionally, candidates must have intermediate knowledge (level B) of another official FAO language. Knowledge of Arabic is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the region.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Damascus, Syria, and candidates will be assessed against the minimum requirements outlined. The role may involve working in a full-time capacity, and candidates should be prepared to engage in international cooperation and advocate for best practices in Farmer Field Schools. The position may also entail responsibilities that cover other functions of the FAO Office as needed.