Biodiversity Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission 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 operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 12,000 employees. The organization is committed to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and improving nutrition, thereby contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The Biodiversity Specialist will be part of the Forestry and Biodiversity Team at the FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific. This position is crucial for supporting member nations in accessing technical advice and financial resources for sustainable forest management. The consultant will engage in analytical work, technical assistance, and project delivery related to biodiversity across the Asia and Pacific regions. The role emphasizes biodiversity mainstreaming within agrifood systems, forest biodiversity conservation, and sustainable forest management. The consultant will also be involved in formulating and implementing biodiversity and forestry projects funded by FAO and other development partners, focusing on halting deforestation, enhancing resilience, and conserving biodiversity.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Biodiversity Specialist will conduct comprehensive analytical work on biodiversity mainstreaming across agrifood systems and forestry sectors in Asia and the Pacific. This includes reviewing policies, strategies, investments, and commitments related to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) and relevant FAO strategies. The consultant will support regional and national assessments of biodiversity and forestry priorities, analyze National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs), and prepare technical reports and knowledge products. Responsibilities also include compiling and analyzing information on FAO tools and methodologies related to biodiversity conservation, supporting resource mobilization for biodiversity projects, providing technical support for ongoing projects, developing technical publications, and organizing consultations and capacity development activities. The consultant will also monitor and evaluate biodiversity and forestry programs, ensuring effective reporting and communication of results.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in environmental policy, biological sciences, or international development. Those with a bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. A minimum of one year of relevant experience in biodiversity, natural resources management, or sustainable agriculture is required. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a strong working knowledge of English (C1 level).

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree in environmental policy, biological sciences, or international development from a recognized institution. Candidates with a bachelor's degree must have additional professional experience to qualify. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of biodiversity and sustainable resource management.

Experience:
The Biodiversity Specialist should have at least one year of relevant experience in fields such as biodiversity, natural resources management, or sustainable agriculture. This experience is critical for effectively contributing to the FAO's mission and supporting member nations in their biodiversity initiatives.

Languages:
A strong working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of another FAO language such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Spanish, or Russian is desirable and will be considered an asset during the selection process.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Bangkok, Thailand, and is part of a full-time consultancy role. The consultant will be expected to engage in various activities that support the FAO's mission and objectives in the region. The role may involve collaboration with international partners and stakeholders, and the consultant will be responsible for ensuring that all tasks are completed in a timely and effective manner.