Senior National Project Coordinator - Irrigation

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to lead international efforts to defeat hunger. Founded in 1945, FAO's mission is 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. With 195 Members, including 194 Nations and the European Union, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization provides policy advice and support to countries through its Country Offices, which work in alignment with the Strategic Framework to deliver technical assistance, develop capacities, and ensure accountability in operations. FAO's work is guided by the Country Programming Frameworks (CPFs) aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), focusing on effective operations and resource management.

Job Overview:
The Senior National Project Coordinator (SNPC) will play a pivotal role in providing technical leadership and coordination for all projects under the irrigation portfolio of the FAO Country Office in Malawi. This position is crucial as FAO collaborates with the government of Malawi and resource partners to expand investments in the irrigation sub-sector. The SNPC will be responsible for leading the development of specific work plans and budgets in accordance with signed project agreements, ensuring that project activities are implemented effectively and in a timely manner. The role requires a strong focus on technical guidance related to irrigation development, climate resilience, and natural resource management, as well as the ability to foster collaboration among various stakeholders, including government institutions, UN agencies, and development partners. The SNPC will also oversee project monitoring, evaluation, and reporting, ensuring compliance with project agreements and operational procedures while promoting knowledge sharing and visibility of project achievements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior National Project Coordinator include leading and coordinating the development of work plans and budgets, implementing project activities, providing technical guidance on irrigation and agricultural development, coordinating operational planning and procurement processes, and strengthening partnerships among stakeholders. The SNPC will also be responsible for project monitoring and evaluation, ensuring compliance with agreements and donor commitments, and leading communication and visibility activities. Additional responsibilities include preparing and managing Letters of Agreement, service contracts, and procurement plans, ensuring that project activities promote integrated approaches to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability. The SNPC will represent the project in technical meetings, facilitate knowledge sharing, and participate in workshops to promote best practices and enhance the visibility of FAO's contributions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in a relevant field such as Irrigation Engineering or Agricultural Engineering, with a minor in Natural Resources Management. A minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience in agricultural development, irrigation engineering, or watershed management is required. Candidates must also have a working knowledge of the English language at level C and must be nationals of Malawi. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Irrigation Engineering or Agricultural Engineering, with a focus on Natural Resources Management. The degree must be obtained from an institution accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of relevant professional experience in areas such as agricultural development, irrigation engineering, and watershed management. Experience in program coordination and multi-stakeholder engagement is essential, as well as experience working with government institutions and development partners.

Languages:
A working knowledge of the English language at level C is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The 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 must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The appointment is subject to security clearances. For additional employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.