Agriculture and Farming Systems Specialist

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN dedicated to achieving food security for all and leading international efforts to defeat hunger. FAO supports the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems globally. Working in over 130 countries, FAO Country Offices provide policy advice, technical assistance, and capacity development, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. In the Philippines, FAO has partnered with the government and local stakeholders for over four decades to address challenges in agriculture, fisheries, and forestry.

Job Purpose

The Agriculture and Farming Systems Specialist will provide crucial technical leadership for designing and implementing climate-resilient agriculture (CRA) initiatives. This role is vital for enhancing the productivity, resilience, and overall livelihoods of farmers and fisherfolk. The Specialist will champion climate-adaptive farming systems, promote sustainable inputs and energy-efficient technologies, and integrate risk-informed practices. A key focus will be ensuring the inclusion of vulnerable groups, such as women-headed households and persons with disabilities, in all interventions. The position also involves coordinating with partners, supporting capacity-building efforts, monitoring project outcomes, and contributing essential technical expertise to reports and decision-making processes.

Responsibilities

Provide technical leadership in climate-resilient agriculture (CRA) practices to boost farmer and fisherfolk productivity and resilience. Support the design and implementation of climate-adaptive farming systems, including cash-plus initiatives, energy-efficient technologies, and sustainable inputs. Conduct technical assessments to recommend appropriate crop, livestock, and fisheries interventions based on agro-climatic conditions and risks. Develop and adapt training modules and extension materials on climate-smart agriculture, sustainable inputs, and risk-informed practices. Facilitate capacity-building activities for farmers, fisherfolk, and community organizations. Provide technical input for the procurement of agricultural inputs and technologies, ensuring quality and FAO standards. Promote energy-efficient and climate-resilient technologies like solar irrigation and sustainable fishing practices. Integrate gender equality, disability, and social inclusion (GEDSI) considerations into interventions. Support anticipatory and early action measures by aligning agricultural practices with early warning systems. Coordinate with government agencies and partners to align with national programs and avoid duplication. Participate in technical working groups and stakeholder consultations to foster partnerships and knowledge exchange. Contribute technical inputs to project documents, proposals, and reports. Monitor agricultural interventions, tracking the adoption of CRA practices and productivity improvements. Collect and analyze agriculture-related data and field insights to guide project implementation. Document best practices, lessons learned, and innovations in CRA and sustainable livelihoods. Support the integration of risk-informed and adaptive approaches to address climate variability. Assist in strengthening linkages between farmers, extension services, and support institutions. Prepare technical reports and contribute to progress and donor reports.

Work Experience

At least 5 years of relevant experience in agriculture/rural development, farming systems development, sustainable agricultural production, integrated crop-livestock systems, or climate-resilient agriculture.

Skills

Proficiency in English (level C). Excellent writing and report writing skills in English and Filipino. General knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Ability to work under pressure and adapt to complex environments within diverse teams. Willingness to travel to project sites. Working knowledge of local dialects is an advantage.

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