Socio-Economic Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Green Climate Fund project 'Forest Resilience in Armenia: Enhancing Adaptation and Rural Growth through Mitigation' was approved and became operational in December 202

• The project has a total funding of USD 18.7 million, which includes co-financing from various entities such as the Government of Armenia, the Austrian Development Agency (ADA), the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, WWF Armenia, FAO, and the Swiss Development Center (SDC). The project aims to facilitate Armenia's transition towards a low-emission and sustainable development pathway through targeted interventions that reduce forest degradation and enhance forest cover. The FAO Representation in Armenia and the Environmental Project Implementation Unit under the Ministry of Environment of Armenia are the Executing Entities responsible for the project's implementation and supervision. The project specifically focuses on improving energy efficiency at the household level and increasing forest governance and community participation in forest management.

Job Overview:
The Socio-Economic Specialist will play a crucial role in the technical implementation of the energy efficiency component of the project. This position requires close collaboration with private sector producers, local authorities, and project beneficiaries to ensure the successful distribution of 9,000 improved wood stove appliances to vulnerable households in the Lori and Syunik Marzes. The specialist will be responsible for confirming beneficiary eligibility, developing a transparent selection methodology, and ensuring gender-responsive targeting measures are integrated throughout the process. The role also involves conducting socio-economic assessments, analyzing household data, and establishing procedures for beneficiary verification and outreach. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the FAO Representative in Armenia and will coordinate with various stakeholders to maximize community participation and ensure the project's objectives are met.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Socio-Economic Specialist will carry out a comprehensive set of tasks, including: confirming and operationalizing beneficiary eligibility and prioritization criteria; reviewing household socio-economic data in coordination with relevant agencies; providing technical support for developing a beneficiary selection methodology; establishing procedures for identifying and verifying eligible households; integrating gender-responsive measures in the selection process; designing outreach and consultation processes; coordinating with women's organizations; defining household categorization and vulnerability assessment approaches; recommending support modalities and co-financing mechanisms; developing data collection tools and beneficiary databases; preparing selection reports; ensuring transparency and accountability in the selection process; and contributing to monitoring indicators related to beneficiary targeting and social outcomes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or higher) in fields such as Economics, Development Studies, Social Sciences, Public Policy, Rural Development, Sociology, Statistics, or Social Protection. Additionally, a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in socio-economic assessments, household analysis, poverty analysis, social protection, or community-based development projects is required. Candidates should also have a working knowledge of English and Armenian and must be nationals of Armenia or residents with a valid work permit.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, specifically a Master's degree or higher, in relevant fields such as Economics, Development Studies, Social Sciences, Public Policy, Rural Development, Sociology, Statistics, or Social Protection. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and analytical skills to effectively perform the duties associated with the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in areas related to socio-economic assessments, household analysis, poverty analysis, social protection, or community-based development projects. This level of experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of socio-economic dynamics and for effectively implementing the project's objectives.

Languages:
Proficiency in both Armenian and English is required, with strong written and spoken skills in both languages. Knowledge of Russian is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and enhance collaboration with international partners.

Additional Notes:
The 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. It is important to note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from accredited institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED). The appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearances. This position may involve working on a contract basis, and candidates should be prepared for potential international recruitment.