Animal Production Officer (Feed and Feeding Systems)

Job Posting Organization:
The Animal Production and Health Division (NSA) is a part of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) that focuses on promoting sustainable development in the livestock sector. Established to enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and reduce rural poverty, NSA integrates scientific and technical expertise with policy advice. The division facilitates policy dialogue through intergovernmental bodies, encourages good governance, and manages knowledge to implement innovative solutions for producing safe animal products sustainably. The division operates globally, addressing various production systems from pastoralism to intensive farming, and aims to enhance sustainability across environmental, economic, and social dimensions.

Job Overview:
The Animal Production Officer (Feed and Feeding Systems) plays a crucial role in improving feed production and feeding systems within the livestock sector. This position focuses on enhancing economic and environmental efficiency through the development of innovative methods, tools, and technologies. The officer will be responsible for planning, developing, and implementing divisional programs and projects that align with the FAO Strategic Framework. The role requires collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and participation in international technical policy discussions, ensuring that gender equality and women's empowerment are integrated into FAO's work. The officer will also conduct research and data analysis to support the development of technical standards and policy proposals, responding to requests for technical assistance from member countries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Animal Production Officer will lead and coordinate various components of multidisciplinary teams, ensuring effective collaboration across divisions and with external partners. Key responsibilities include developing strategies for efficient resource use in feed production, advising on feeding plans for different livestock species, enhancing the use of local feed resources, and providing technical training on quality control in feed analysis laboratories. The officer will also develop guidelines and reports on animal feed and feeding systems, focusing on optimizing nutrient use efficiency and reducing environmental emissions. Additionally, the officer will support countries in conducting national feed inventories and assessments, develop capacity-building initiatives for small-scale producers, and identify projects aimed at improving the feed sector in developing countries. The role may also involve participation in resource mobilization activities and promoting best practices at international meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in agriculture, animal science, or a related field, with a strong emphasis on nutrition" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">animal nutrition or feed production. A minimum of seven years of relevant experience in animal nutrition and feed production is required. Proficiency in English (level C) and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is essential. Candidates should demonstrate competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing. Technical skills in extending the feed resource base and familiarity with gender-related issues are also important.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree in agriculture or animal science/production, with a particular focus on animal nutrition or feed production, including pasture management. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of livestock feeding systems and developing effective strategies for improvement.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of relevant experience in the field of animal nutrition and feed production. Experience working in multiple locations or areas, particularly in field positions, is preferred. Familiarity with international research initiatives and development projects related to feed and feeding systems is also advantageous. Experience in developing countries is considered an asset, as it provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the livestock sector.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a requirement for intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. This linguistic capability is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the international context of the FAO.

Additional Notes:
The position is based at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. While the job description does not specify a deadline for applications, candidates are encouraged to apply promptly. The role is likely to be full-time and may involve international collaboration and travel. Compensation and benefits details are not provided in the job description, but candidates can expect a competitive package in line with FAO standards.