Atoll Food Systems Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to lead international efforts to defeat hunger. The FAO's mission is to work towards the eradication of hunger and strive for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for everyone, as outlined in the 2030 Agenda. The organization operates globally, with a strategic framework aimed at transforming agri-food systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. FAO's ultimate goals include better production, better nutrition, better environment, and better lives, ensuring that no one is left behind. The FAO is actively involved in supporting the Government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) through various projects, including the GEF-funded initiative focused on sustainable food systems and integrated land/seascape management across six atolls: Majuro, Kwajalein, Arrno, Wotje, Jaluit, and Ailinglaplap. This project aims to integrate food system management into strategic planning and enhance capacity for environmental and agri-food system management.

Job Overview:
The Atoll Food Systems Specialist will play a crucial role in the FAO's project aimed at transforming food systems and land/seascape management in the Marshall Islands. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and delivering a structured training program and establishing a network of skilled Atoll Food System Specialists across the six atolls. This program will support indigenous knowledge, food security, and adaptation to climate change while expanding scientific capacity within the government and communities. The AFS Specialists will work closely with local communities to document traditional knowledge related to food production and identify opportunities for sustainable, climate-resilient food production systems. Their work will contribute to enhancing local food and nutrition security and strengthening national food sovereignty. The role requires accurate data collection and reporting to support national data sets and provide a living census of food production across the RMI.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Atoll Food Systems Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Collecting and recording local and traditional knowledge on food production systems and maintaining datasets for a living national census of food production.
• Assisting in the coordination and implementation of project activities within their respective atolls.
• Facilitating farmer training and managing demonstration sites and farmer field schools in targeted localities.
• Supporting the MNRC with nursery propagations of planting materials for distribution.
• Monitoring project implementation and providing regular reports on progress.
• Liaising with project stakeholders, particularly local governments, to facilitate project activities.
• Providing technical support to farmers and communities to enhance their agricultural practices.
• Preparing and submitting progress reports to the National Project Coordinator (NPC).
• Performing any other duties necessary for the successful execution of the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:

• A High School Diploma is required.
• A minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in project management or coordination related to agriculture and the environment.
• A working knowledge of English is essential.
• Candidates must be nationals of the Marshall Islands.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma. It is important to note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least 3 years of relevant experience in managing or coordinating projects that are related to agriculture and environmental issues. This experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of food systems and the challenges faced in the Marshall Islands.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but English is the primary language of communication within the organization and for project implementation.

Additional Notes:
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 should be aware that appointment is subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. For additional employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.