Fishery Resources Officer (Climate Change)

Job Posting Organization:
The Fisheries and Aquaculture Division (NFI) of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is dedicated to addressing the economic, social, institutional, governance, and policy aspects of fisheries and aquaculture. Established to enhance human well-being, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and poverty reduction, the division emphasizes sustainable practices and the protection of the environment. It plays a crucial role in collecting and disseminating fishery statistics and managing living aquatic resources, focusing on biodiversity and ecosystem maintenance. The NFI operates globally, engaging in various international processes and dialogues to promote responsible fisheries and aquaculture management.

Job Overview:
The Fishery Resources Officer (Climate Change) position is integral to the Fisheries and Aquaculture Division at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. This role is pivotal in supporting the implementation of the FAO Strategic Framework, particularly the Blue Transformation Roadmap, which aims to enhance climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies within the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. The officer will work on strengthening climate resilience, ensuring that climate considerations are integrated into management, policy, and investment processes at all levels. The position requires a comprehensive understanding of the implications of climate change on marine and inland resources, as well as the ability to translate complex scientific information into actionable policy advice and program support for member states and partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Fishery Resources Officer will be responsible for planning and leading multidisciplinary teams, participating in organization-wide committees, and providing specialized expertise in technical networks. Key responsibilities include developing analytical frameworks and methodologies to support program planning and monitoring, conducting research and data analysis to inform technical standards and policy proposals, and responding to requests for technical assistance from member nations. The officer will also promote international cooperation, advocate for best practices, and engage in resource mobilization activities. Specific functions include supporting the FAO Strategy on Climate Change, coordinating follow-up to Committee on Fisheries requests, overseeing FAO's contributions to global climate change events, and ensuring effective knowledge exchange within the NFI.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in marine sciences, environmental sciences, fishery science, marine ecology, or related fields. A minimum of seven years of relevant experience in fisheries and aquaculture management, climate change analysis, and program management is required. Proficiency in English and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language is mandatory. Competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, and technical skills are essential. Experience in international processes and collaboration across agencies is desirable, along with a strong background in analyzing technical and scientific information related to fisheries and climate change.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s degree or equivalent, in fields related to marine sciences, environmental sciences, fishery science, marine ecology, or fisheries and aquaculture management. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate change impacts on aquatic systems and for developing effective management strategies.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of relevant experience in areas such as fisheries and aquaculture management, climate change analysis, and environmental risk assessment. Experience in scientific research and program management is also essential. The role demands a proven track record in contributing to international processes and coordinating cross-divisional collaboration, highlighting the importance of a diverse and extensive professional background.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at proficiency level C is mandatory, along with intermediate knowledge (level B) of another FAO official language, which may include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. This linguistic capability is vital for effective communication and collaboration in an international context.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, at the FAO headquarters. It is a full-time role that may involve international travel for meetings and conferences related to climate change and fisheries management. The successful candidate will engage in resource mobilization efforts and contribute to the FAO's strategic initiatives, including the Blue Transformation Roadmap. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards.