Agricultural Officer (Integrated Plant Health Management)

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations; Roma; In loco; EUR 30.000 - 50.000; Tempo pieno

Descrizione del lavoro

An international organization based in Rome is seeking an Agricultural Officer specializing in Integrated Plant Health Management to support the planning and implementation of innovative pest management practices. The ideal candidate will have a Master's degree in agricultural sciences and at least seven years of relevant experience. This role emphasizes teamwork and communication to enhance sustainable crop production practices worldwide. Competitive compensation and benefits are part of the offer.

Servizi

Dependency allowances

Rental subsidy

Education grant for children

30 working days of annual leave

Competenze

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in integrated pest management.
• Proficient in English and another FAO language.
• Experience with ecosystem services related to pest management.

Mansioni

• Plan and lead multidisciplinary teams for project delivery.
• Develop frameworks and tools to support project implementation.
• Collaborate with members on capacity development and knowledge sharing.

Conoscenze

Integrated pest management

Communication

Teamwork

Formazione

Advanced university degree in agricultural sciences or related field

Descrizione del lavoro

Agricultural Officer (Integrated Plant Health Management) – Post 0080888

Location: FAO Headquarters, Rome, Italy. Duration: Fixed‑term two years with possibility of extension.

Posting Information

Posting date: 05 Dec 2025 | Closure date: 26 Dec 2025 10:59:00 PM.

Unit and Team

Plant Production and Protection Division (NSP) – Pest and Pesticide Management team (NSPCD).
Reports to the Senior Agricultural Officer/Team Leader, NSPCD.

Position Overview

The Agricultural Officer provides technical and policy expertise to support the planning, development and implementation of divisional programmes, projects, products and services in line with the FAO Strategic Framework. The role lies within the integrated pest management (IPM) context, contributing to sustainable crop production, pesticide management and the broader One Health approach.

Key Functions

• Plan and lead multidisciplinary teams, cross‑divisional committees and working groups.
• Develop technical, analytical and monitoring frameworks, tools and databases supporting project delivery.
• Design and conduct research, data collection, validation and reporting activities to inform technical standards and policy proposals.
• Respond to Members’ requests for technical and policy assistance, providing back‑stopping to field projects.
• Collaborate on capacity development and knowledge sharing activities for Members.
• Promote international cooperation, advocate best practices and provide expertise at intergovernmental meetings.
• Participate in resource mobilisation activities in accordance with the FAO Corporate Strategy.
• Lead the development and implementation of projects and programmes that enhance FAO’s support to Members at the intersection of plant health and One Health issues.
• Provide technical support and training on international agreements linked to pest and pesticide management.
• Contribute to the implementation of FAO’s strategic framework, especially sustainable cropping systems.

Qualifications and Experience

• Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in agricultural sciences, agronomy, plant protection, entomology, plant pathology or related field with specialization in integrated crop pest management.
• Seven years of relevant experience in integrated pest management, pest monitoring, surveillance or management, preferably in developing countries.
• Proficient in English (Level C) and intermediate proficiency (Level B) in another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish).
• Extensive knowledge of integrated pest management approaches within sustainable crop production systems.
• Experience with ecosystem services and their role in integrated pest management.
• Experience designing and implementing integrated pest management strategies, programmes and projects.
• Experience supporting community‑based learning processes or field positions.
• Strong teamwork, communication, relationship‑building and continuous improvement skills.

EEO and Diversity Statement

FAO is committed to workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background and culture. Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non‑ and under‑represented Members and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. All FAO staff are required to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professional conduct; FAO has a zero‑tolerance policy for sexual exploitation, harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination. All selected candidates will undergo reference and background checks and all applications will be treated with strict confidentiality.

Benefits and Compensation

A competitive compensation and benefits package is offered, including the UN salary scale and allowances. Other benefits may include:

• Dependency allowances
• Rental subsidy
• Education grant for children
• Home leave travel
• 30 working days of annual leave per year
• Pension fund entitlements under the UN Joint Staff Pension Fund
• International health insurance; optional life insurance
• Disability protection

FAO encourages a positive workplace culture to increase inclusivity and diversity, with elements of family‑friendly policies, flexible working arrangements and high standards of conduct.

How to Apply

1. Visit the FAO recruitment portal at Jobs at FAO and complete your online profile. 2. Attach a letter of motivation and any required supporting documentation. 3. Ensure your qualifications are accredited by the World Higher Education Database and align with the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) mappings. 4. Submit your application through the FAO portal before the closure date. Applications received elsewhere will not be considered. 5. If you need assistance, register with the FAO client support team at https://fao.service-now.com/csp.