Technical Officer (Regional GEF/Eastern Europe Central Asia)

Organizational Context

The Office of Climate Change, Biodiversity and Environment (OCB) at FAO coordinates responses to climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation. It serves as a focal point for major environmental agreements and assists Members in accessing climate and environmental financing, including the Global Environment Facility (GEF). FAO, a UN specialized agency, focuses on sustainable food systems and environmental restoration. The FAO-GEF program, a significant and growing portfolio, supports countries in transforming food systems while conserving biodiversity and mitigating climate change. The Europe and Central Asia region constitutes 7% of this portfolio, with the OCB-GEF Unit providing crucial thematic guidance and technical expertise.

Job Purpose

This role focuses on the identification, design, implementation support, and monitoring of FAO-GEF projects and similar environmental financing mechanisms. It involves contributing to strategic and policy work, particularly at the intersection of global environmental challenges and sustainable agriculture. Key responsibilities include conducting research and technical analysis on social, economic, environmental, institutional, and technological aspects to support project delivery. The position also entails producing technical reports, providing backstopping to field projects, developing improved tools and systems, and participating in multidisciplinary teams. Furthermore, it involves collaborating on capacity development activities within Member Nations, promoting knowledge sharing, and supporting resource mobilization efforts aligned with the FAO Strategic Framework.

Responsibilities

The Technical Officer will support OCB-GEF regional teamwork and strategic programming, participating in management meetings. Responsibilities include collaborating with Finance and Project Implementation Support (FPIS) and Monitoring-Reporting (M-R) teams to manage regional GEF portfolio information, ensure timely project milestone achievement, and mitigate implementation challenges. The role involves working with the Executive Coordinator to set resource mobilization targets, supporting the FAO-GEF Strategy and Action Plan implementation, and establishing strategic partnerships. The officer will act as a key contact for GEF program and policy development, promoting synergies with regional priorities and developing a high-quality GEF project pipeline. Additionally, the position supports operational and technical roles in delivering the FAO-GEF portfolio and contributes to knowledge management by capturing and disseminating lessons learned. The officer will serve as a FAO-GEF Technical Officer for selected projects, supporting the formulation and implementation of complex GEF programs, ensuring compliance with FAO and GEF policies, and providing technical inputs for portfolio management, risk management, and information systems. The role also involves contributing to project reviews and identifying opportunities for synergies with other vertical funds.

Work Experience

At least five years of relevant professional experience in project/programme design, implementation, and monitoring, with a focus on environmental issues and sustainable development, preferably within the GEF framework or similar multilateral environmental financing mechanisms. Experience working in the Europe and Central Asia region is desirable.

Skills

Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information. Proven experience in project cycle management, including formulation, implementation, and monitoring. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural team and engage with diverse stakeholders. Knowledge of GEF policies, procedures, and focal areas. Familiarity with sustainable agriculture, climate change, biodiversity, and land/water management issues. Proficiency in English; knowledge of other UN languages is an asset.

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