Agriculture Specialist (SC – 7)

Organizational Setting

FAO Emergency program in Myanmar objectives are: i) Rebuilding agriculture-based livelihoods through supply of agricultural, livestock and aquaculture inputs and cash transfer, training on good agriculture practices, climate smart agriculture, nutrition, provision land preparation harvesting equipment, improving animal health services; ii) Rehabilitating productive infrastructure and contribute to conservation through fishpond renovation and construction through cash-for-work and agricultural land rehabilitation; and iii) Improving disaster Risk Reduction, early warning and anticipatory action systems as well as community based disaster risk management.

This is a call for future vacant position and not for immediate recruitment.

Reporting Lines

Under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative in Myanmar and the operational supervision of the Emergency and Rehabilitation Coordinator, in close cooperation with the Team dedicated to the Emergency Projects, the following duties will be undertaken by the Agriculture Specialist.

Technical Focus

Expertise and capacity to provide technical advice on agriculture aspects especially on Rice, pulses and vegetable anchored into the local context.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Prepare technical specifications of agricultural inputs including seed, tools, fertilizers, etc for tenders;
• Assist in conducting needs assessment and baseline surveys for the identification of beneficiaries on-going interventions;
• Formulate training modules related to good agriculture practices, including home and community garden, crop productions, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), soil and water management, post-harvest practices;
• Conduct related training for training of trainers (TOT);
• Jointly with other project officers and consultants review the equipment needs of the project, and provide technical advice and recommendations specifications for procurement;
• Ensure the agriculture component of the project is implemented together with relevant stakeholders with the involvement of the community representatives;
• Contribute to the formulation of a participatory monitoring system and process documentation specifically of the best agriculture practices;
• Ensure follow-up and coordination related to the implementation of work plans and procurement plans. Cooperate and coordinate with other FAO projects and promote synergies in project implementation;
• Contribute to the preparation and formulation of Letters of Agreements (LoAs) the supervision of the Local partners and verification of their technical performances (including LOAs reporting);
• Establish and maintain a demonstration vegetable garden for showcase purposes at FAO representation in office.
• Prepare and submit mission report after each mission and the end of assignment report before the termination of the contract; and
• Perform other tasks as required and appropriate for successful implementation of the project.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

• Advanced university degree in Agriculture majoring in Agronomy, agricultural extension or related field
• At least 7 years of practical experience in working with oil seeds, pulses and rice
• At least 5 years practical experience on and a good working knowledge of food production (specifically rice, pulses seeds and vegetables)
• Working knowledge of English
• National of Myanmar

FAO Core Competencies

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

Technical/Functional Skills

• Relevant experience in the United Nations system;
• Work experience in more than one location or area of work, particularly in field positions is desirable;
• Knowledge of computer programme – Microsoft Office package;
• Understanding of FAO policies and programmes is considered a strong asset;
• Willingness and ability to travel to remote, rural locations, Team player
• Good communication, analytical and writing skills;

Selection Criteria

• Extensive knowledge of good agricultural practices of the major crops
• Proven capacity and experience in working with farmers
• Good computer skills (Word, Excel, email, PowerPoint)
• Relevant advanced degree.
• Experience with agriculture extension programmes and other developmental approaches that emphasize resilient livelihoods.
• Relevant experience with UN agencies, especially FAO
• Extensive knowledge of various extension approaches
• Good knowledge of the food security and nutrition issues in Myanmar
• Experience in international, geographically dispersed, and inter-disciplinary teams.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION