Project Assistant (Communications)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to lead international efforts to defeat hunger and malnutrition. The organization contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through its Strategic Framework, which aims to support the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. FAO operates globally, with numerous country offices, including one in Zambia, where it collaborates with various stakeholders to develop policies, programs, and projects aimed at achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and reducing hunger. The FAO country office in Zambia is involved in the Sustainable Intensification of Smallholder Farming Systems (SIFAZ) project, which focuses on sustainable food production and resilience building among smallholder farmers, particularly in the context of climate change.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant (Communications) will play a crucial role in supporting the communication and visibility activities of the SIFAZ project. This position requires the incumbent to work closely with the FAO Representative in Zambia and the Chief Technical Advisor for the project, as well as with various implementing partners, including the Ministry of Agriculture and NGOs. The primary functions of this role include preparing work plans for communication activities, collating content from technical teams, and creating graphic designs, infographics, and social media content. The incumbent will also be responsible for managing communication materials, ensuring compliance with FAO standards, and supporting the dissemination of project achievements and lessons learned. This position is vital for enhancing the visibility of the project and ensuring effective communication with stakeholders and the public.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will have a wide range of responsibilities, including: supporting graphic design and infographics production; compiling and organizing project progress information into communication products; assisting in the production of communication materials for resource and implementing partner relations; identifying media opportunities and planning media events; managing social media channels; producing monthly situation reports and updates related to food security; improving information and knowledge management systems; supporting travel arrangements for communication events; ensuring compliance with FAO publishing standards; and performing any other related duties as required for the successful execution of SIFAZ activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in communication, graphic design, infographics, photography, or a relevant qualification related to the FAO mandate. Additionally, at least 2 years of relevant experience in graphic design, infographics, photography, and social media management is required. A working knowledge of English is mandatory, and candidates must be Zambian nationals. FAO Core Competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in a relevant field such as communication, graphic design, infographics, or photography. The FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires at least 2 years of relevant experience in graphic design, infographics, photography, and social media management. Experience working in multiple locations or areas of work is preferred, as well as familiarity with FAO policies and UN administrative procedures.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Additional language skills, particularly in local languages, would be considered an asset, especially for community-level communications.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and 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 position may involve full-time work, and the appointment is subject to security clearances. For further employment opportunities, candidates are encouraged to visit the FAO employment website.