Technical Officer (Regional GEF/Eastern Europe Central Asia)

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 encompasses a wide range of areas including agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and sustainable management of natural resources. The Office of Climate Change, Biodiversity and Environment (OCB) within FAO plays a crucial role in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation, providing guidance and support to member nations in these critical areas.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer (Regional GEF/Eastern Europe Central Asia) position is integral to the Office of Climate Change, Biodiversity and Environment (OCB) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. This role focuses on the identification, design, implementation support, and monitoring of FAO-GEF projects and programs, as well as those of other environmental financing mechanisms. The officer will contribute to strategic and policy work that addresses the nexus between global environmental challenges and sustainable agriculture, including climate change resilience, land, water, fisheries, forestry, and biodiversity. The position requires a strong emphasis on research, analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">technical analysis, and project-related services to support the delivery of program projects, products, and services. The officer will also be responsible for producing technical documents, providing support to assessments and studies, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to promote best practices and knowledge sharing.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Technical Officer include conducting research and analysis on technical, social, economic, environmental, institutional, and technological issues to support program delivery. The officer will produce a variety of technical information, data, and reports, and provide technical support to various assessments and initiatives. They will collaborate in the development of improved tools and systems, participate in multidisciplinary teams, and ensure the quality of capacity development activities within member nations. Specific functions include supporting regional GEF teamwork, maintaining regional GEF portfolio information, facilitating project implementation, and promoting synergies with regional programming and policy priorities. The officer will also serve as a FAO-GEF Technical Officer for selected programs and projects, ensuring compliance with FAO policy standards and GEF priorities, and providing critical technical inputs for robust regional portfolio management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in environmental science, sustainable agriculture, or a related field. They should have a solid understanding of climate change, biodiversity, and environmental issues, as well as experience in project management and implementation. Strong analytical skills, the ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams, and excellent communication skills are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to promoting best practices and knowledge sharing in the field of environmental management.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in environmental science, sustainable agriculture, or a related field is required for this position. A PhD or equivalent advanced degree is preferred and may be considered an asset. Relevant certifications or training in project management, climate change, or biodiversity conservation will also be advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of relevant professional experience in environmental management, project implementation, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of climate change and biodiversity, is highly desirable. Familiarity with GEF projects and financing mechanisms will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of other UN languages, particularly French or Spanish, is considered an asset. Proficiency in the local language of the region may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. The contract duration and specific terms of employment will be discussed during the interview process. The FAO offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, or background.