Junior National Forest Restoration Specialist

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 has been a longstanding partner of the Government of Armenia, focusing on transforming the country’s agrifood systems through various initiatives. The organization operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to improving agricultural productivity, ensuring security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and promoting sustainable management of natural resources. FAO's mission includes supporting countries in achieving their commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Paris Agreement on climate change, and the Convention on Biological Diversity, while also addressing agricultural and environmental priorities specific to each country.

Job Overview:
The Junior National Forest Restoration Specialist will play a crucial role in the implementation of a significant project funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) aimed at enhancing forest resilience in Armenia. This position is designed to support the development of staff capacity at Hayantar SNCO, ensuring high seedling survival rates in planting operations and the sustainable management of degraded coppice forests. The incumbent will be responsible for organizing knowledge transfer to Hayantar staff, delivering hands-on training to selected workers, and coordinating activities at forest restoration sites. The role requires local travel to project sites in Syunik Marz and other relevant areas, where the specialist will engage in practical training and support the monitoring of planting activities and silvicultural operations. The position is integral to the project's goal of increasing community involvement in natural resource management and improving forest management practices in Armenia.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Junior National Forest Restoration Specialist will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including: conducting tree marking in compliance with the selective upgrading methodology; supporting Hayantar SNCO and community stakeholders in site selection for selective upgrading; conducting on-the-job training for local community members on adaptive management measures; overseeing the technical implementation of silvicultural measures and tree planting activities; collaborating with project stakeholders to ensure proper implementation of restoration activities; following up and backstopping activities in the Sisian nursery; providing guidance on adaptive management issues; and preparing monthly reports documenting progress and technical observations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree or secondary education in forestry, natural resource management, or a related field. A minimum of one year of relevant work experience in forestry and training organization is required. Additionally, candidates must have a working knowledge of English and Armenian and must be nationals of Armenia. FAO core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing are essential for this role. Technical skills related to forest and landscape restoration methods, adaptability to new ideas, commitment to participatory approaches, and experience in conducting trainings are also important.

Educational Background:
The position requires a university degree or secondary education, preferably in forestry, natural resource management, or a related field. Candidates must ensure that their educational qualifications are recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED), as FAO only considers qualifications from accredited institutions.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least one year of relevant work experience in the field of forestry and training organization. This experience should include practical knowledge of forest management practices and the ability to conduct training sessions effectively.

Languages:
A working knowledge of both English and Armenian is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Sisian or Goris, with local travel required to project sites in Syunik Marz and potentially other areas such as Lori Marz. FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The appointment will also be subject to security clearances.