Young Professional Officer (Food Loss and Waste)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is dedicated to achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all, ensuring that people have regular access to sufficient high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. Established in 1945, FAO has grown to include 195 members, comprising 194 countries and the European Union, and operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on various aspects of food security, agriculture, and rural development, with a particular emphasis on sustainable practices and policies. The Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP) plays a crucial role in leading FAO's response to regional priorities, overseeing a network of Country Offices and the Subregional Office for the Pacific Islands, and ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to programs and projects in the region.

Job Overview:
The Young Professional Officer (Food Loss and Waste) position is integral to the FAO's efforts in addressing food loss and waste (FLW) issues within agrifood systems. The role involves supporting the implementation of FLW-related projects, which includes data collection, analysis, and reporting. The Young Professional will engage in various analytical and operational activities, contributing to evidence-based decision-making and enhancing the sustainability and resilience of agrifood systems. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in an international and multidisciplinary environment, gaining hands-on experience in technical analysis, policy support, and process coordination. The Young Professional will be expected to collaborate with various stakeholders, contribute to the development of training materials, and support the organization of workshops and seminars, thereby playing a vital role in promoting best practices in food loss and waste management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Young Professional Officer (Food Loss and Waste) include:

• Analyzing relevant technical, social, economic, environmental, and technological information for input into various documents.
• Maintaining records and updating databases and web pages related to food loss and waste.
• Providing technical support to various projects focused on FLW.
• Collaborating in the development of training tools and materials, as well as organizing workshops and seminars.
• Participating in the organization and follow-up of meetings, consultations, and conferences, including the production of required materials and providing information and assistance to partners.
• Supporting the implementation of FLW-related activities through data collection, validation, management, and analysis.
• Compiling, reviewing, and cross-checking FLW data and statistics from multiple sources.
• Providing analytical and operational support for multidisciplinary projects, coordinating with relevant modules.
• Analyzing and interpreting qualitative and quantitative data, presenting results through tables, charts, and analytical summaries. 1
• Contributing to reporting and briefing processes in line with FAO standards, including drafting, editing, and revising technical documents and publications. 1
• Supporting the development and improvement of data collection tools and methodologies in collaboration with relevant divisions. 1
• Documenting emerging best practices for reducing and managing FLW, while supporting knowledge sharing and capacity building. 1
• Contributing to the preparation of technical outputs, including reports, briefs, and inputs to final reports. 1
• Identifying data gaps and improving analytical and monitoring approaches related to FLW activities.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Young Professional Officer (Food Loss and Waste) position include a strong background in agricultural sciences, environmental studies, or a related field. Candidates should possess excellent analytical skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and present findings clearly. Proficiency in technical writing and communication is essential, as the role involves drafting reports and technical documents. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate strong organizational skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment. Familiarity with food systems, sustainability practices, and project management will be advantageous.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the Young Professional Officer (Food Loss and Waste) position should hold at least a master's degree in agricultural sciences, environmental studies, food science, or a related field. A strong academic background that includes coursework in data analysis, project management, and sustainability practices is preferred. Additional certifications or training in food security, waste management, or related areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 1-2 years of relevant experience in project support, data analysis, or research within the fields of agriculture, food security, or environmental management. Experience working in international organizations or in a multidisciplinary team setting is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of contributing to projects or initiatives focused on food loss and waste management, sustainability, or related areas.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for the Young Professional Officer (Food Loss and Waste) position, as all documentation and communication will be conducted in English. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those relevant to the Asia-Pacific region, is considered a valuable asset and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Bangkok, Thailand, within the Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP) of the FAO. The Young Professional Officer will be expected to engage in various capacity-building activities and contribute to the development of technical materials. The contract duration and specific compensation details will be discussed during the interview process. The FAO encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of nationality, and it is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce.