Senior Technical Officer (International Waters - Chemicals and Waste)

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 over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims 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. FAO's mission is to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, make agriculture, forestry, and fisheries more productive and sustainable, reduce rural poverty, and enable inclusive and efficient agricultural and food systems. FAO also plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable management of natural resources and addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation.

Job Overview:
The Senior Technical Officer for International Waters and Chemicals and Waste will play a pivotal role in leading FAO's engagement with the Global Environment Facility (GEF) across two critical focal areas. This position requires strategic oversight and technical leadership to mobilize resources and implement Multilateral Environmental Agreements at global, regional, and national levels. The officer will be responsible for developing and implementing programs that address transboundary water management, pollution prevention, and reduction strategies, as well as life-cycle management of chemicals and waste. The role demands a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding water resources and pollution challenges, and the ability to coordinate effectively with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and international organizations. The officer will also be expected to provide high-quality technical support and guidance to FAO's GEF community, ensuring alignment with FAO's strategic priorities and GEF policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Technical Officer will lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of technical issues related to assigned programs and projects. Key responsibilities include directing the review of relevant documents and reports, identifying priorities, and liaising with relevant parties to initiate follow-up actions. The officer will coordinate programs and assess issues and trends for effective implementation, prepare various written outputs such as background papers and reports, and provide substantive support to consultative meetings and conferences. Additionally, the officer will manage outreach activities, design and conduct training workshops, and lead field missions while providing guidance to external consultants and government officials. The role also involves advising on the development of policies and strategies, as well as national protocols and guidelines related to FAO's work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in environmental science, international relations, or a related field, with a proven track record in managing complex projects related to international waters and chemicals and waste. The ideal candidate should have excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information and present it clearly to diverse audiences. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as the role requires collaboration with various stakeholders. The candidate should also demonstrate a commitment to sustainable development and a deep understanding of the challenges facing global environmental governance.

Educational Background:
A master's degree or higher in environmental science, international relations, public policy, or a related field is required. Additional certifications or training in project management, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">environmental law, or related disciplines will be considered an asset. Candidates with a strong academic background and relevant coursework in sustainable development, climate change, and biodiversity will be preferred.

Experience:
A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in environmental management, international development, or related fields is required. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of GEF programming, is highly desirable. The candidate should have a demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects, with a focus on achieving tangible results in environmental governance and resource mobilization.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of other UN languages, particularly French or Spanish, is considered an asset. The ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages will enhance collaboration with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Rome, Italy, at FAO headquarters. The role is full-time and may involve travel to various countries for field missions and stakeholder engagement. The contract duration is subject to funding availability and organizational needs. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards, ensuring competitive remuneration for the successful candidate.