FAO Regular Volunteer Programme for FAO Head

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is a specialized agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all. Established in 1945, FAO has over 195 member countries and operates in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO's mission is to end hunger, malnutrition, and food insecurity, and it actively engages in initiatives that support the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to food and agriculture.

Job Overview:
The FAO volunteer" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Regular Volunteer Programme offers individuals the opportunity to contribute to the organization's mission by engaging in volunteer actions that align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Volunteers will be involved in activities that support FAO's Strategic Framework aimed at transforming agri-food systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The role of a volunteer is crucial in mobilizing services from citizens of member countries to help combat hunger and improve nutrition and food security. Volunteers will report to an assigned supervisor and will be assigned to a field relevant to FAO's mission, performing tasks as outlined in the Terms of Reference (TOR) provided by the hiring office.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The specific duties and responsibilities of the volunteer will be determined by the Terms of Reference (TOR) prepared by the hiring office. Generally, volunteers are expected to assist in various projects and initiatives that align with FAO's goals, contribute to research and data collection, support outreach and educational efforts, and engage with local communities to promote food security and sustainable agricultural practices. Volunteers may also be involved in administrative tasks, reporting, and collaboration with other team members to ensure the successful implementation of FAO's programs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary school education and possess a working knowledge of at least one FAO language, which includes Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish. Knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an asset. Candidates should be nationals of FAO member countries and must be aged 18 or older. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate the ability to adapt to an international multicultural environment and possess good communication skills. FAO values commitment, respect, integrity, and transparency, and all candidates are expected to adhere to these values.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is the completion of secondary school education. While higher education is not explicitly required, candidates with additional academic qualifications related to food security, agriculture, or international development may have an advantage in the selection process.

Experience:
Relevant working or research experience in fields related to FAO's mission is preferred. While specific years of experience are not mandated, candidates with practical experience in agriculture, food security, or related areas will be better positioned for selection. The ability to work effectively in a team and contribute to collaborative projects is essential.

Languages:
A working knowledge of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish) is mandatory. Proficiency in a second FAO language is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The FAO Regular Volunteer Programme does not provide any remuneration to volunteers. FAO encourages applications from qualified female candidates, nationals of non- and under-represented member countries, and candidates from Low-Income Food-Deficit Countries (LIFDCs), Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Land-locked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). All applications will be treated with strict confidentiality, and selected candidates must have appropriate residence or immigration status in Italy prior to joining the organization. Candidates with family members employed by FAO are not eligible to apply. FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates are encouraged to apply well before the deadline.