National Agriculture and Land Management Specialist

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Representation in Georgia, based in Tbilisi, aims to assist governments in developing policies and programs to achieve food security, reduce hunger, and promote sustainable use of natural resources. This National Agriculture and Land Management Specialist role is part of the UTF/GEO/034/GEO-F project, focused on formulating and designing land consolidation in Georgia. The project's goal is to introduce a functional land consolidation instrument integrated with irrigation rehabilitation, contributing to increased agricultural production, efficient land and water use, dynamic land markets, and strengthened land rights.

Job Purpose

This specialist will provide crucial technical support for land consolidation pilot activities within the GRAIL Project. Key responsibilities include analyzing the local agricultural situation, assessing crop suitability, and reviewing soil productivity and irrigation/drainage networks. The role involves leading local agronomists, coordinating discussions regarding state-owned agricultural land, and ensuring the quality of feasibility studies and land consolidation plans. The incumbent will offer technical guidance for the implementation of all land consolidation-related activities under the UTF Project, ensuring alignment with project goals and government policies.

Responsibilities

Provide technical support for land consolidation activities under the GRAIL Project, collaborating with FAO and relevant Georgian government units (MEPA, LMA). Contribute to the successful implementation of pilot land consolidation projects by supporting field teams in agricultural situation analysis, land valuation, re-allotment planning, and advising on crop suitability, soil productivity, and irrigation infrastructure. Align land consolidation efforts with agricultural support programs and government policies to ensure landowner and farmer engagement. Supervise and coordinate Local Agronomists, ensuring quality and timely delivery of outputs, and provide them with guidance and performance feedback. Engage with government institutions to facilitate the availability of state-owned agricultural land for consolidation. Participate in training sessions, workshops, and awareness-raising activities related to land consolidation. Support the drafting of the National Land Consolidation Strategy and contribute to the assessment and development of related legislation and operational procedures. Ensure quality assurance for all project deliverables, including feasibility studies and consolidation plans. Contribute to the development of the National Land Consolidation Programme based on pilot experiences and FAO's technical oversight.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of professional experience is required in agronomy, horticulture, plant protection and production, amelioration, or soil management. Experience in team supervision, working with rural communities and farmers, and providing technical guidance to agronomy staff or field teams is essential. Experience with international organizations, government agencies, or development partners is an asset.

Skills

Proficiency in computer literacy, including spreadsheets, databases, data management, and Microsoft Office. Ability to assess agricultural potential, crop suitability, and land productivity. Experience with irrigation systems, agricultural infrastructure, and land improvement. Understanding of land consolidation processes, including land valuation and re-allotment. Knowledge of land tenure, land governance, and agricultural land use in Georgia. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills related to rural and agricultural development. Excellent coordination, reporting, and stakeholder engagement skills. Demonstrated experience in team supervision and providing technical guidance. Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.

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