Atoll Food Systems Specialist
Organizational Context
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency dedicated to eradicating hunger and ensuring food security for all, aligning with the 2030 Agenda. FAO's Strategic Framework aims to transform agri-food systems for greater efficiency, inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability. FAO is supporting the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) through a GEF-funded project focused on sustainable food systems and integrated land/seascape management. This initiative seeks to enhance global environmental and health benefits by transforming food systems and management practices across six key atolls.
Job Purpose
This role is part of a project initiative to develop and deliver a structured training program and establish a network of skilled Atoll Food System Specialists across six atolls. The program aims to support indigenous knowledge, enhance food security and adaptation, and expand scientific capacity. Specialists will collaborate with communities to document local knowledge on food production under a changing climate, identify opportunities for sustainable, climate-resilient food systems, and strengthen national food sovereignty. Accurate data recording will enrich national datasets and provide a comprehensive census of food production, while specialists will also coordinate project activities within their respective atolls.
Responsibilities
Collect and record local and traditional knowledge on food production systems and food systems datasets to contribute to a 'living national census' of food production, utilizing project-provided tools. Assist in coordinating and implementing project activities within assigned atolls. Facilitate farmer training sessions and manage demonstration sites and farmer field schools in target localities. Provide support for nursery propagations of planting materials. Monitor project implementation progress and submit regular reports. Liaise with all project stakeholders, including Local Governments, to disseminate project information and facilitate activity implementation. Offer technical support to farmers and communities. Prepare and submit progress reports to the National Project Coordinator. Perform any other duties essential for the successful execution of the project.
Work Experience
Three years of relevant experience in the management or coordination of projects related to agriculture and the environment.
Skills
Results Focus, Teamwork, Communication, Building Effective Relationships, Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement.