National Animal Health Specialist

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Yemen is dedicated to advancing national food, agriculture, and rural development priorities. The office collaborates with relevant ministries to develop and implement strategies that enhance food security, reduce hunger and malnutrition, and promote sustainable management of agricultural, fisheries, and forestry sectors. This role is based in the FAO Representation in Sanaa, Yemen, contributing to the overarching goal of assisting the government in achieving these critical development objectives.

Job Purpose

The National Animal Health Specialist will be instrumental in planning and supporting the implementation of crucial animal health initiatives within Yemen. This includes the development and execution of robust animal disease surveillance systems, the organization and oversight of livestock vaccination campaigns, and the comprehensive evaluation of vaccination effectiveness both before and after implementation. The specialist will contribute to strengthening the national capacity for animal disease control and prevention, thereby safeguarding livestock health and supporting the livelihoods dependent on them.

Responsibilities

The role involves assisting in the preparation and execution of disease surveillance systems and vaccination campaigns, including Pre and Post Vaccination Evaluations. The specialist will provide technical support to the General Directorate of Animal Health and Veterinary Quarantine (GDAHVQ) for laboratory analysis and report writing, and follow up on technical and financial reports for payments. A key responsibility is supporting capacity building through the preparation and facilitation of training courses for laboratory technicians and surveillance officers on animal disease diagnostics, lab quality assurance, surveillance systems, and transboundary animal diseases (TADs). The specialist will also assist in planning and implementing capacity building for veterinary extension staff and support the organization of meetings with GDAHVQ, private sector stakeholders, and other relevant bodies. Additionally, the role includes collecting and reviewing data related to the One Health concept and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of directly applicable experience in managing animal health programs or related fields is required. Experience working with government, NGOs, or UN agencies is beneficial. Experience in project implementation, planning, monitoring, and reporting is also valuable. Relevant work experience in an emergency context is considered an asset.

Skills

The ideal candidate will possess strong results focus, teamwork, and communication skills, with the ability to build effective relationships and share knowledge. Essential technical skills include the ability to plan, organize, implement, and report on project interventions, particularly in animal health. Excellent written and oral communication in English is required for drafting technical reports. Proficiency in MS Office is necessary, with familiarity in agricultural commodity exchange and animal identification systems being advantageous. Strong soft skills, including problem-solving, self-organization, and time management, are crucial. Experience in multiple work locations or areas is beneficial.

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