Fishery Specialist
Organizational Context
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) supports sustainable agrifood systems for better production, nutrition, environment, and life, aligning with the 2030 Agenda. FAO's commitment to sustainable aquatic resource management is key to its objectives. Within Tunisia, FAO is implementing projects like BLUE STEP and FishEBM MED, focusing on blue crab fisheries. These initiatives involve collecting harmonized socioeconomic data to enhance fisheries management and value chain analysis, contributing to the sustainable development of the sector under FAO and GFCM guidance.
Job Purpose
The incumbent will provide essential technical assistance for the planning, coordination, and execution of socioeconomic surveys and data collection activities. This role is crucial for developing a comprehensive database that will support in-depth value chain analysis of the blue crab fishery in Tunisia. By ensuring accurate and efficient data gathering and management, the position directly contributes to informed decision-making for the sustainable management and development of Tunisia's blue crab sector, strengthening both local and regional fisheries initiatives.
Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include preparing local language translations of survey questionnaires, assisting in the development of sampling strategies and field implementation plans with GFCM support, and conducting at least 70 interviews with blue crab fishers in major landing ports using standardized GFCM/FAO survey methods. The role also involves compiling collected data into electronic formats, providing raw data to supervisors, and supporting socio-economic data quality control and analysis. Furthermore, the specialist will coordinate with the Seafood Value Chain Analysis Specialist, offering technical support to integrate fishing sector socioeconomic information into value chain diagrams and analyses. The position may also involve collecting data on supporting actors within the fishery to understand their roles and linkages.
Work Experience
A minimum of 7 years of professional experience is required in areas such as fisheries management assessments, socioeconomic surveys, or fisheries research. Demonstrated experience in conducting field data collection and performing data analysis within the fisheries sector is essential. Familiarity with national food security and fishery policies and practices in Tunisia is also important.
Skills
Essential skills include strong results focus, teamwork, and communication abilities. Proficiency in statistical and data analysis software (e.g., R, Stata, SPSS) is required, along with experience in database management. The candidate should possess excellent analytical and conceptual skills, strong writing and synthesis abilities, and a thorough understanding of the socioeconomic questionnaire structure and sampling strategies. Familiarity with UN agency work is an advantage, and a PhD is considered an asset.