National Agriculture Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Sub-regional Office for the Pacific Islands (SAP) is based in Apia, Samoa, and coordinates FAO's work across 13 member countries and one Associate Member in the Pacific sub-region. Established to address security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, nutrition, agriculture, and rural development priorities, the office operates under the auspices of FAO's Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP) in Bangkok. The SAP is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing various programs aimed at enhancing agricultural practices and food systems in the Pacific region. The Sustainable Transformation of Domestic Agrifood Systems (STODAS) project, a significant initiative funded by the European Union, is a key focus of the organization, with a budget of EUR 10 million and a project duration extended to 54 months. The project aims to strengthen policy and institutional environments, promote sustainable production systems, and enhance capacities for agrifood systems across Fiji, Samoa, and the Solomon Islands. The FAO collaborates with various local ministries and organizations to implement its initiatives effectively.

Job Overview:
The National Agriculture Specialist position is crucial for the successful implementation of the STODAS project in Fiji, particularly focusing on production-related activities under Output

• This role involves providing subject matter expertise at the national level, ensuring that the project's objectives are met effectively and in a timely manner. The specialist will be responsible for technical liaison between FAO, the Government of Fiji, and service providers, identifying community-based production systems, assessing the capacity of potential implementing partners, and monitoring the delivery of agricultural and livestock inputs. The position requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including the National Project Coordinator and the Ministry of Agriculture, to enhance domestic crop and livestock production, thereby contributing to the overall goals of food security and sustainable agricultural practices in Fiji.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Agriculture Specialist will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Planning and Assessment: Develop a detailed workplan outlining methodologies, timelines, and information requirements for project activities. Consult with relevant stakeholders to identify community production systems and assess agricultural needs and opportunities.
• Service Provider Identification and Capacity Assessment: Facilitate engagement with qualified service providers, support their registration as competitive bidders, and assist in the development of Letters of Agreement and service contracts.
• Monitoring of Procured Goods and Service Provider Performance: Oversee the implementation of service providers and the distribution of FAO-procured goods, maintaining accurate records of performance and recommending improvements as necessary.
• Capacity Building and Training Delivery: Build the capacity of service providers through training on beneficiary selection and reporting requirements, and deliver workshops in collaboration with local partners.
• Crop Production Support: Promote sustainable agricultural practices, support crop diversification, and enhance market linkages for agricultural products.
• Livestock Production Support: Assist in establishing livestock feed systems and promote sustainable livestock management practices.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Maintain effective communication with all stakeholders and ensure compliance with FAO standards in all technical outputs and documentation.
• Other Duties: Submit monthly progress reports, support monitoring and evaluation efforts, and undertake additional tasks as assigned by supervisors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in agriculture, agronomy, animal science, agricultural economics, rural development, or a closely related field. An advanced degree is considered an asset. Additionally, candidates should have at least three years of relevant experience in agricultural or livestock development, agricultural extension, or the implementation of agriculture and rural development projects. Proficiency in English is required, and candidates must be nationals of Fiji. The role also demands strong competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, relationship building, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in a relevant field such as agriculture, agronomy, animal science, agricultural economics, or rural development. An advanced degree is advantageous and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in agricultural or livestock development, agricultural extension, or the implementation of agriculture and rural development projects. Experience working with government ministries, particularly the Ministry of Agriculture, and familiarity with donor-funded project implementation modalities are highly valued.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English (proficiency – level C) is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of Fijian (iTaukei) and Fiji Hindi is considered a strong asset, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and communities.

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. Candidates must ensure that their educational qualifications are recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED). The appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. The position is based in Suva, Fiji, and may involve regular travel to field sites across different districts and islands.