National Consultant - Technical Specialist for FARM

Job Advertisement

Position Title: National Consultant - Technical Specialist for FARM
Location: Laos
Country: Laos
Deadline Date: 11-Mar-25 @ 12:59 PM (New York time)

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which was established in 196

• UNDP is a global development network that advocates for change and connects countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. With a presence in over 170 countries, UNDP works to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working collaboratively with governments, civil society, and the private sector to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP's mission is to empower lives and build resilient nations, focusing on areas such as democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate and disaster resilience, and inclusive economic growth.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant - Technical Specialist for FARM will play a crucial role in providing high-level advice and guidance to the Department of Agriculture of the Government of Lao PDR and UNDP. The consultant will be responsible for supporting the implementation of various project components aimed at enhancing agricultural practices and pesticide management in Laos. This position requires a deep understanding of agricultural policies, pesticide registration processes, and capacity-building initiatives. The consultant will coordinate the development and implementation of training programs to strengthen pesticide registration and ensure compliance with international standards. Additionally, the consultant will engage with key stakeholders to foster collaboration and ensure that project activities align with national priorities. The role involves conducting assessments, designing optimization plans for waste management, and ensuring the application of best environmental practices throughout the project lifecycle. The consultant will also be responsible for drafting reports, creating knowledge products, and promoting project visibility among stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Consultant - Technical Specialist include the following:

• Provide technical guidance and support to the Department of Agriculture and project team, ensuring effective project implementation.
• Develop detailed Terms of References for national and international consultants and contractors as needed.
• Supervise consultants and conduct quality assurance reviews of their outputs.
• Draft synthesis reports and knowledge products to showcase project outcomes, including fact sheets, brochures, and infographics.
• Promote project visibility through dissemination of knowledge products and representation at stakeholder events.
• Provide inputs to monitoring and evaluation reports, including progress reports and project reviews.
• Lead the preparation of policy papers and advocacy notes to influence agricultural policies.
• Coach and support project staff, promoting a learning environment and enhancing their competencies.
• Network with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector, to foster collaboration and ensure project alignment with national strategies. 1
• Facilitate workshops and meetings to engage stakeholders and promote project objectives.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the National Consultant - Technical Specialist position include:

• A strong background in agricultural sciences, environmental management, or a related field.
• Proven experience in project management, particularly in the agricultural sector.
• In-depth knowledge of pesticide registration processes and international standards related to pesticide use.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to assess project needs and develop effective solutions.
• Familiarity with monitoring and evaluation frameworks to assess project impact and effectiveness.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Proficiency in report writing and the development of knowledge products.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a minimum of a Master's degree in agricultural sciences, environmental management, or a related field. A PhD in a relevant discipline would be an advantage. Candidates should have a strong academic foundation that supports their understanding of agricultural practices, pesticide management, and sustainable development principles.

Experience:
Candidates for the National Consultant - Technical Specialist position should have at least 5-7 years of relevant professional experience in project management within the agricultural sector. Experience working with international organizations, government agencies, or NGOs in similar roles is highly desirable. Familiarity with capacity-building initiatives and stakeholder engagement processes is essential for success in this position.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all reports and communications will be conducted in English. Proficiency in Lao or other local languages would be considered an asset, as it would facilitate better engagement with local stakeholders and enhance communication effectiveness.

Additional Notes:
The position is for a contract duration of 90 working days. The consultant will be expected to work full-time and may need to travel within Laos as required by the project. The role is classified as an individual contractor position, and compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. The consultant will be required to submit proposals directly through the UNDP supplier portal by the indicated deadline. Additionally, any requests for clarification regarding the application process must be submitted in writing through the portal's messaging functionality.