Forestry and Natural Resources Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The FAO Sub-Regional Office for West Africa (SFW) is dedicated to developing, promoting, and implementing strategies that address security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, nutrition, agriculture, and rural development priorities in West Africa. Established to support the 15 member countries of ECOWAS and 17 member countries of the Inter-State Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CILSS), the office comprises a multidisciplinary team of technical experts in various fields such as agriculture, forestry, fisheries, land and water, and pastoralism. The organization plays a crucial role in combating poverty and promoting food and nutritional security, while also addressing climate change through sustainable management of natural resources. The FAO is recognized internationally for its efforts in these areas, particularly in relation to the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) submitted by African countries under the UNFCCC. The SFW has a growing portfolio of over 60 projects funded by the GEF, focusing on climate action and environmental sustainability in the region.

Job Overview:
The Forestry and Natural Resources Expert will be an integral part of the multidisciplinary climate team at the FAO Sub-Regional Office for West Africa. This position is crucial for enhancing FAO's support in the design and implementation of climate-related projects, particularly those funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). The expert will be responsible for providing technical support to country offices in formulating and developing project proposals that focus on forestry, climate change, and natural resource management. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders and the ability to conduct field missions to ensure effective project implementation. The expert will also engage in research and analysis to support the delivery of GEF projects, ensuring that the FAO's initiatives align with the broader goals of climate action and sustainable development in West Africa.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Forestry and Natural Resources Expert include: conducting research and analysis on technical, social, economic, environmental, institutional, and technological issues related to GEF projects; providing technical support in the formulation of GEF project proposals in collaboration with the climate team; offering technical backstopping to GEF field projects; developing improved tools, systems, processes, and databases; participating in multi-disciplinary teams and promoting best practices; contributing to knowledge sharing and stakeholder consultations; supervising project implementation through field trips; ensuring the technical review of project documents; supporting resource mobilization activities; and performing other relevant duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's) in forestry, environmental or agricultural sciences, natural resource management, economics, or a related field. Alternatively, a university degree combined with two years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of an advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should have at least five years of relevant experience in forestry, natural resources management, climate change, and REDD processes in developing countries. Proficiency in both English and French is required, along with core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's) in forestry, environmental or agricultural sciences, natural resource management, economics, or a related field. Candidates with a bachelor's degree may be considered if they have two additional years of relevant experience. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of forestry and natural resource management in the context of climate change.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in forestry, natural resources management, climate change, and REDD processes, particularly in developing countries. Experience in working in multiple locations or areas, especially in field positions in West Africa, is desirable. Additionally, candidates should have experience in advising on the implementation of forestry-related climate change projects and formulating or implementing projects in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly with GEF, GCF, and other climate finance donor agencies.

Languages:
Full proficiency in English and French is mandatory for this position. These language skills are essential for effective communication and collaboration with stakeholders in the region. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Dakar, Senegal, and may require travel for field missions to various countries in the region. The role is full-time and involves working closely with the FAO's climate team and country offices. Candidates will be assessed based on their relevant experience in designing, formulating, or evaluating substantial agricultural and rural development projects with a focus on climate change. Experience with GCF, GEF, or Investment Financing Institutions (IFI) is considered an advantage.