Nutrition and Food Systems Officer

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Nutrition and Food Systems Officer
Location: Apia
Country: Samoa
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims 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's commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to its strategic objectives and operations, particularly through its Subregional Office for the Pacific Islands (SAP), which covers multiple Pacific nations and focuses on agrifood systems transformation.

Job Overview:
The Nutrition and Food Systems Officer position is crucial for providing technical and managerial support to the FAO's programs aimed at improving nutrition and food systems in the Pacific Islands. This role involves working closely with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement strategies that align with FAO's Four Betters: Better Nutrition, Better Life, Better Production, and Better Environment. The officer will be responsible for conducting comprehensive technical analyses, developing specialized tools and methodologies, and supporting the planning and monitoring of various programs and projects. The position also emphasizes collaboration with regional and national stakeholders to enhance food safety and nutrition education initiatives, particularly in addressing non-communicable diseases through improved food production and consumption practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Nutrition and Food Systems Officer will lead and participate in multidisciplinary teams, providing specialized expertise on technical networks and policy-setting bodies. Key responsibilities include developing frameworks for monitoring and reporting, conducting research and data analysis, and providing technical advice to regional and country offices. The officer will also promote international cooperation, advocate for best practices, and support capacity development within member nations. Specific functions include contributing to the FAO Multi-country Programming Framework, leading agrifood systems projects, developing innovative nutrition education tools, and ensuring food safety in collaboration with WHO and other partners. The officer will also engage in resource mobilization activities and support the Subregional Coordinator in donor engagements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in nutrition, food science, development studies, or a related field. A minimum of seven years of relevant experience in analyzing nutrition and food security issues is required, along with proficiency in English and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language. Competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, and building effective relationships are essential. Technical skills in agrifood systems, nutrition policy, and program initiatives are highly desirable, as is familiarity with FAO's partner institutions and the ability to mobilize resources.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in nutrition, food science, development studies, or a related field is mandatory for this position. This educational background ensures that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to address complex nutrition and food systems challenges effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in nutrition and food security analysis, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative survey techniques. Experience in field positions and working in multiple locations is desirable, particularly in the context of Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the nutrition context in Pacific SIDS and have extensive experience in integrating nutrition into agricultural policies and programs.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a working knowledge at level C. Additionally, candidates should have intermediate knowledge (level B) of another official FAO language, which may include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. This language proficiency is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the international context of FAO's work.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Apia, Samoa, and is part of the FAO Subregional Office for the Pacific Islands. The role may involve travel within the region to support various initiatives and collaborations. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that emphasizes teamwork and international cooperation. The FAO offers competitive compensation and benefits, including opportunities for professional development and capacity building.