Home-Based Jobs at FAO

01. Systems monitoring and learning specialist

Location:   Home-Based

Duration: Up to 11 months

Deadline: 06 May 2026, 11:59:00 PM

Job Description

• • • • FAO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background and culture.
      • Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non-and under-represented Members and person with disabilities are encouraged to apply;
      • Everyone who works for FAO is required to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professional conduct, and to uphold FAO’s values
      • FAO, as a Specialized Agency of the United Nations, has a zero-tolerance policy for conduct that is incompatible with its status, objectives and mandate, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination
      • All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks
      • All applications will be treated with the strictest confidentiality

      FAO’s commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to our strategic objectives and operations

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      Organizational Setting

      The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through the FAO Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to MORE efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.

      The Division of Agrifood Systems and Food Safety (ESF) at FAO provides strategic leadership to drive agrifood system transformation by supporting FAO HQ, decentralized offices, Members and partners in taking a systems approach to policy, programmes and projects, including through normative products, methods and tools; documentation and collective learning of systems approaches; and support for implementation at the national and subnational level. It also works to deliver on the FAO Strategic Priorities for Food Safety within the FAO Strategic Framework 2022-2031, including through the Joint FAO/WHO Scientific Advice Programme and support to the strengthening of national food control systems.

      The Agrifood Systems Transformation Unit (TU) in FAO’s ESF Division works to advance the adoption of a systems approach to agrifood systems transformation. Monitoring systems change (i.e. agrifood transformation) is an essential part of a systems approach. In the context of dynamic and interconnected agrifood systems, it enables implementers and partners see if agrifood systems are actually changing in the desirable direction, thereby supporting learning, adaptive management, accountability, and effective decision-making. Monitoring systems change provides early and actionable insights into how policies, programmes, and investments are influencing how systems function and are configured well before ultimate outcomes and impacts become visible. Systems learning processes are likewise essential to ensure what is learned through monitoring leads to adaptation and improvement of actions being undertaken in policy and practice.

      Reporting Lines

      The Specialist will report directly to the ESF Director.

      Technical Focus

      This role will provide technical support or leadership on the design, development, and operationalization of approaches to monitor the adoption of a systems approach and systems change, and associated processes of adaptation through learning, for the Agrifood Systems Transformation Unit. This includes supporting methodological design, providing technical backstopping and quality assurance, convening and facilitating learning processes, and ensuring alignment with institutional results and reporting frameworks. In addition, the role will act as the technical focal point for internal and external partnerships and engagements on monitoring systems change.

      Through this call for expression of interest, ESF aims at identifying specialists with experience in these areas of work, who will be endorsed on the roster.

      Tasks and responsibilities

      Design, monitoring and learning

      •    In collaboration with project teams, design and implement approaches for monitoring the adoption of a systems approach and systems change into the TU’s ongoing and new work. This includes the selection, adaptation and operationalization of relevant methods and tools, providing technical backstopping and quality assurance throughout implementation of work to project teams and preparing reports on tested methods.
      •    Establish and facilitate learning processes with implementing teams and partners in which data from monitoring efforts are used and interpreted to surface relevant insights and inform adaptive action during implementation
      •    Ensure alignment and complementarity between systems change monitoring efforts and institutionally required results and reporting frameworks.

      Partnerships on monitoring systems change

      •    Act as a technical focal point on the topic of monitoring systems change towards internal and external partners.
      •    Identify and engage with relevant technical partners, practitioners and experts that are active on this topic, and contribute to shaping longer-term partnerships and engagements including internal coordination on this topic.
      •    Contribute to the design, delivery and follow-up of expert consultations, reference groups, technical exchanges and learning and capacity building events on monitoring systems change.
      •    Be informed about relevant work undertaken by internal and external partners, synthesizing insights and emerging practices to inform FAO’s own work.
      •    Identify and develop opportunities for joint experimentation, testing and learning on monitoring systems change, with a view to advancing practical application and collective learning in collaboration with partners.

      Documentation and communication

      •    Document insights, lessons and emerging practices from the application of monitoring systems change and related learning and adaptation processes.

      In close collaboration with Office of Communications (OCC) branches and appropriate Communication focal points, the incumbent will:

      •    In collaboration with the senior communications expert and other team members, contribute to the development of stories of change, case studies and other products that illustrate the process of systems change over time based on data collected focused on monitoring systems change

      FAO Standards and guidelines:

    • Liaison with OCC will be maintained, either directly or through an agreed focal point/coordinator, to ensure compliance with OCC standards, aligned messaging, and appropriate review and clearance processes.All communication materials will follow FAO clearance processes and comply with FAO standards, including:
      FAO Strategic Framework 2022-31: https://www.fao.org/strategic-framework/en
      FAO social media policy and guidelines: https://www.fao.org/2/socialmedia
      Social Media Branding Guidelines: https://openknowledge.fao.org/handle/20.500.14283/cb5044en
      FAOSTYLE(https://openknowledge.fao.org/handle/20.500.14283/cb8081en
      FAO terminology http://www.fao.org/faoterm
      FAO Names Of Countries https://www.fao.org/nocs/en
      Story guidelines, Story template, UN map standards, FAO logo policy and related branding guidelines (available to staff).

      Further guidance regarding FAO communications, policies and procedures can be found through the FAO intranet, OCC section.

      •    Prepare clear and accessible technical notes, briefs and other (knowledge) products for different audiences demonstrating the value of monitoring systems change for different purposes

       

      CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

      Minimum Requirements

      •    For Consultants: Advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in public policy, public administration, social science, political science, international development, economics, sociology, data science, or another relevant field. Consultants with a bachelor’s degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience.
      •    For PSAs: University degree (or technical degree/certificate) from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in public policy, public administration, social science, political science, international development, economics, sociology, data science, or another relevant field
      •    At least 5 years of relevant experience working on complex programme, systems-level or policy monitoring, learning or evaluation using qualitative research methods with a systems lens.
      •    Working knowledge (level C) of English.

      FAO Core Competencies

      •    Results Focus
      •    Teamwork
      •    Communication
      •    Building Effective Relationships
      •    Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

      Technical/Functional Skills

      •    Experience with setting up and implementing monitoring frameworks in project and/or policy contexts with a systems lens
      •    Knowledge and experience with applying learning processes in project and/or policy contexts with a systems lens
      •    Deep understanding of a systems approach in agrifood systems contexts

      Selection Criteria

      •    Degree and extent of demonstrated experience in monitoring and/or evaluation and learning in programme and/or policy contexts with a systems lens
      •    Degree and extent of depth of methodological expertise on monitoring, learning and/or evaluation of systems change.
      •    Degree and extent of familiarity and experience of working on agrifood systems with a systems approach
      •    Degree and extent of country-level experience of monitoring systems change
      •    Knowledge of a second FAO language, in particular Spanish or French, is considered an asset.
      •    Previous experience of engagement with international issues and organizations and/or working in the development sector/ UN system.
       Please note that all candidates should adhere to FAO Values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All and Integrity and Transparency

       

      ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

      • FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, processing)
      • Please note that FAO will only consider academic credentials or degrees obtained from an educational institution recognized in the IAU/UNESCO list
      • Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at http://www.whed.net/
      • For more information, visit the FAO employment website
      • Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.

       HOW TO APPLY

      • To apply, visit the recruitment website at: >> Jobs at FAO and complete your online profile. We strongly recommend that your profile is accurate, complete and includes your employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills
      • Candidates are requested to attach a letter of motivation to the online profile
      • Once your profile is completed, please apply, and submit your application

      • Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at http://www.whed.net/. These qualifications should be in alignment with the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) mappings.

      • Candidates may be requested to provide performance assessments and authorization to conduct verification checks of past and present work, character, education, military and police records to ascertain any and all information which may be pertinent to the employment qualifications
      • Incomplete applications will not be considered
      • Personal information provided on your application may be shared within FAO and with other companies acting on FAO’s behalf to provide employment support services such as pre-screening of applications, assessment tests, background checks and other related services. You will be asked to provide your consent before submitting your application. You may withdraw consent at any time, by withdrawing your application, in such case FAO will no longer be able to consider your application
      • Only applications received through the FAO recruitment portal will be considered
      • Your application will be screened based on the information provided in your online profile
      •  We encourage applicants to submit the application well before the deadline date.

      If you need help or have queries, please create a one-time registration with FAO’s client support team for further assistance: https://fao.service-now.com/csp.

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02. Technical Communications Specialist

Location:   Home-Based

Duration:  11 months (extendable)

Deadline: 29 April 2026, 11:59:00 PM

Job Description

• FAO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background and culture.
• Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non-and under-represented Members and person with disabilities are encouraged to apply;
• Everyone who works for FAO is required to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professional conduct, and to uphold FAO’s values
• FAO, as a Specialized Agency of the United Nations, has a zero-tolerance policy for conduct that is incompatible with its status, objectives and mandate, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination
• All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks
• All applications will be treated with the strictest confidentiality

FAO’s commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to our strategic objectives and operations.

Organizational Setting

The Programme Management Unit (PMU) of the FAO-Saudi Technical Cooperation Programme (2026-2031) facilitates, coordinates and manages all technical and advisory services to be provided by FAO to the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MoEWA). The project “UTF/SAU/051/SAU Strengthening MoEWA’s Capacity to Implement the Sustainable Rural Agricultural Development Programme” is the first project that has been approved within the framework of FAO-Saudi Technical Cooperation Programme (2019-2025). The project will provide technical and advisory assistance to the MoEWA in implementing its flagship Sustainable Rural Agricultural Development programme that has recently been approved within the context of the National Transformation Programme of the Saudi Vision 2030.

Reporting Lines

The incumbent shall work under the overall supervision of the Partnerships and Outreach Expert and the Programme Director of FAO Saudi Arabia.

Technical Focus

The incumbent will provide strategic support in developing, overseeing, and executing high-impact communication and advocacy initiatives on food security, climate resilience, water, ecosystems, and sustainable agriculture. This will ensure appropriate recognition of the FAO Member Country and enhance the visibility, credibility, and policy influence of FAO’s work in Saudi Arabia.

Tasks and responsibilities

1.    Support the Partnerships and Outreach Expert and the Programme Director across relevant workstreams, particularly ongoing programmes under the FAO-Saudi Arabia Technical Cooperation Programme, showcasing FAO’s efforts in transforming agrifood systems, water, and natural resources management in partnership with the Member Country, stakeholders, and beneficiaries.

2.    Contribute to the development of public communication content across multiple media and formats aligned with FAO’s strategic priorities and thematic focus areas. Specifically:
i.    Ensure quality control of content in line with FAO guidelines and communication standards across all platforms.
ii.    Review and translate stories and news to meet FAO Style and terminology standards, including assembling verified background information, translating and summarizing relevant technical documents, drafting key messages, and developing social media and video scripts.
iii.    Draft content in various formats for internal and external channels, such as newsletters, digital posters, infographics, news articles for FAO Saudi Arabia and other web platforms, feature stories, key messages, talking points, and scripts.
iv.    Contribute to the creation of multimedia communication assets (graphics, videos, photos, animations, campaigns, podcasts, social/digital content, copywriting, etc.) for internal and external use, including publication launches, events, international days, and participation in global forums.

3.    Ensure adherence to FAO standards and guidelines:
i.    Maintain liaison with OCC, directly or via an agreed focal point/coordinator, to ensure compliance with OCC standards, aligned messaging, and appropriate review and clearance processes.
ii.    All communication materials must follow FAO clearance processes and comply with FAO standards, including:

•    FAO Strategic Framework 2022-31: https://www.fao.org/strategic-framework/en
•    Publishing at FAO including FAO Style in English and Arabic
•    FAO social media policy and guidelines: https://www.fao.org/2/socialmedia
•    Social Media Branding Guidelines: https://openknowledge.fao.org/handle/20.500.14283/cb5044en
•    FAO Style Guide: https://openknowledge.fao.org/handle/20.500.14283/cb8081en
•    FAO Terminology: http://www.fao.org/faoterm
•    FAO Names of Countries: https://www.fao.org/nocs/en
•    Story guidelines, story templates, UN map standards, FAO logo policy, and related branding guidelines (available to staff).

iii.    Additional guidance on FAO communications, policies, and procedures is available via the FAO intranet, OCC section.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

•    For Consultants: Advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in business administration, communications, knowledge management, or a relevant field related to agriculture, livestock production, natural resources management, water, agricultural extension and project management. Consultants with a bachelor’s degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience.
•    For PSAs: University degree (or technical degree/certificate) from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in business administration, communications, knowledge management, or a relevant field related to agriculture, livestock production, natural resources management, water, agricultural extension and project management.
•    More than 5 years of relevant knowledge and experience in agriculture, livestock production, natural resources management, water, agricultural extension, project management and other related fields.
•    Working knowledge in Arabic and English (level C).

FAO Core Competencies

•    Results Focus
•    Teamwork
•    Communication
•    Building Effective Relationships
•    Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

•    Excellent writing and editing skills, with the ability to translate complex technical terminology related to agriculture, natural resources management, water, agricultural extension, and related fields into clear, engaging, and concise content.
•    Proven ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams in multicultural and international environments.
•    Demonstrated capacity to deliver high-quality outputs within tight deadlines and to respond promptly to urgent assignments.
Please note that all candidates should adhere to FAO Values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All and Integrity and Transparency

 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

 HOW TO APPLY

• To apply, visit the recruitment website at: >> Jobs at FAO and complete your online profile. We strongly recommend that your profile is accurate, complete and includes your employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills
• Candidates are requested to attach a letter of motivation to the online profile
• Once your profile is completed, please apply, and submit your application

• Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at http://www.whed.net/. These qualifications should be in alignment with the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) mappings.

• Candidates may be requested to provide performance assessments and authorization to conduct verification checks of past and present work, character, education, military and police records to ascertain any and all information which may be pertinent to the employment qualifications
• Incomplete applications will not be considered
• Personal information provided on your application may be shared within FAO and with other companies acting on FAO’s behalf to provide employment support services such as pre-screening of applications, assessment tests, background checks and other related services. You will be asked to provide your consent before submitting your application. You may withdraw consent at any time, by withdrawing your application, in such case FAO will no longer be able to consider your application
• Only applications received through the FAO recruitment portal will be considered
• Your application will be screened based on the information provided in your online profile
•  We encourage applicants to submit the application well before the deadline date.

If you need help or have queries, please create a one-time registration with FAO’s client support team for further assistance: https://fao.service-now.com/csp.

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03. Natural Resources Management Specialist

Location:   Home-Based

Duration: 6-11 months

Deadline: 29 April 2026, 11:59:00 PM

Job Description

• FAO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background and culture.
• Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non-and under-represented Members and person with disabilities are encouraged to apply;
• Everyone who works for FAO is required to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professional conduct, and to uphold FAO’s values
• FAO, as a Specialized Agency of the United Nations, has a zero-tolerance policy for conduct that is incompatible with its status, objectives and mandate, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination
• All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks
• All applications will be treated with the strictest confidentiality

FAO’s commitment to environmental sustainability is integral to our strategic objectives and operations.

 Organizational Setting

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through FAO Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to MORE efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.

FAO Subregional Office for Central Asia (FAOSEC) supports member countries in enhancing sustainable management of natural resources, including water, land, and ecosystems, to strengthen resilience of agrifood systems to climate change. FAOSEC promotes integrated approaches to climate change adaptation and mitigation, nature-based solutions (NBS), climate-smart agriculture (CSA), and sustainable water resources management, in line with national priorities and international commitments under the Paris Agreement, SDGs, and other environmental conventions.

Water resources management is a critical priority for countries in Europe and Central Asia, where increasing climate variability, glacier retreat, droughts, floods, and land degradation are affecting agricultural productivity, ecosystems, and livelihoods. FAOSEC provides technical support to member countries in strengthening climate-resilient water management, including integrated water resources management (IWRM), watershed management, irrigation modernization, drought risk reduction, and climate-informed planning.
The Natural Resources Management Specialist will be included in a roster to support FAO in project formulation, technical backstopping, policy advisory services, and capacity development activities related to climate change and water resources management across the region.

Reporting Lines

Under the general supervision and guidance of the Land and Water Officer, the incumbent will contribute to the projects and normative work in the region.

Technical Focus

Technical support to FAOSEC and member countries on integrating climate change considerations into water resources management, including project formulation, technical backstopping, policy advisory services, and capacity development. The incumbent will contribute to climate risk assessments, development of climate-resilient water management approaches, integration of water-related measures into national climate frameworks, and preparation and review of technical knowledge products and investment proposals.

Tasks and responsibilities

•    Provide technical inputs on climate change impacts on water resources, including droughts, floods, and water scarcity in agricultural landscapes;
•    Support the formulation and development of project concept notes and full project proposals related to water and climate change (e.g., GEF, GCF, Adaptation Fund, and other donors);
•    Conduct assessments of climate risks and vulnerabilities related to water resources and agrifood systems;
•    Provide technical guidance on integrated water resources management (IWRM), including pollution control, and the impacts of agricultural practices and agrochemicals on water resources and aquatic ecosystems, watershed management, and climate-resilient irrigation practices;
•    Contribute to the development of strategies and action plans on climate change adaptation with a focus on water management (including fishery, reuse of wastewater and non-conventional water resources, water quality management and monitoring);
•    Support the integration of water-related adaptation measures into NDCs, NAPs, LT-LEDS, and other national climate frameworks;
•    Provide inputs on nature-based solutions for water management, including ecosystem restoration, soil and water conservation, and sustainable land management;
•    Contribute to the design of monitoring frameworks, indicators, and results frameworks related to water, climate change and environmental sustainability interventions;
•    Facilitate stakeholder consultations, technical workshops, and capacity-building activities;
•    Provide technical review of reports, studies, and policy documents related to climate change and water resources (including water-related impacts on aquatic ecosystems and fisheries, including implications of climate change, water quality, and water use practices);
•    Support coordination with national institutions, regional organizations, and development partners;
•    Prepare technical briefs, background papers, and presentations as required;
•    Participate in field missions, if required.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

•    For Consultants: Advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO inin Water Resources Management, Hydrology, Environmental Sciences, Climate Change, Agricultural Engineering, Natural Resources Management, or a related field. Consultants with a bachelor’s degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience;
•    For PSAs: University degree (or technical degree/certificate) from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in Water Resources Management, Hydrology, Environmental Sciences, Climate Change, Agricultural Engineering, Natural Resources Management, or a related field
•    At least 1 year of relevant experience in water resources management and climate change adaptation/mitigation;
•    Working knowledge of English

FAO Core Competencies

•    Results Focus
•    Teamwork
•    Communication
•    Building Effective Relationships
•    Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

•    Work experience in more than one location or area of work
•    Extent and relevance of experience in project/programme formulation
•    Extent and relevance of experience in results monitoring and reporting
•    Familiarity with climate finance mechanisms

Selection criteria

•    Demonstrated experience in project formulation and technical advisory support related to climate change and water;
Please note that all candidates should adhere to FAO Values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All and Integrity and Transparency

 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

 HOW TO APPLY

• To apply, visit the recruitment website at: >> Jobs at FAO and complete your online profile. We strongly recommend that your profile is accurate, complete and includes your employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills
• Candidates are requested to attach a letter of motivation to the online profile
• Once your profile is completed, please apply, and submit your application

• Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at http://www.whed.net/. These qualifications should be in alignment with the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) mappings.

• Candidates may be requested to provide performance assessments and authorization to conduct verification checks of past and present work, character, education, military and police records to ascertain any and all information which may be pertinent to the employment qualifications
• Incomplete applications will not be considered
• Personal information provided on your application may be shared within FAO and with other companies acting on FAO’s behalf to provide employment support services such as pre-screening of applications, assessment tests, background checks and other related services. You will be asked to provide your consent before submitting your application. You may withdraw consent at any time, by withdrawing your application, in such case FAO will no longer be able to consider your application
• Only applications received through the FAO recruitment portal will be considered
• Your application will be screened based on the information provided in your online profile
•  We encourage applicants to submit the application well before the deadline date.

If you need help or have queries, please create a one-time registration with FAO’s client support team for further assistance: https://fao.service-now.com/csp.