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.
FAO is a specialized agency of the UN that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. FAO’s goal is to achieve food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 Members (194 countries and the European Union), FAO works in over 130 countries worldwide.
FAO Country Offices, working under overall corporate guidance and in line with the Strategic Framework, offer policy advice and support to countries in the mandated areas of FAO, facilitated through partnerships, resources and an active country programme to provide technical assistance, develop capacities and deliver core services while fully observing international standards of accountability to establish leadership and strengthen impact at the country level.
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.
FAO has been working in Lebanon since 1977. FAO Lebanon project portfolio has been growing in response to the different crises. Projects mainly target farmers, fishers, and their organisations with the aim of building their resilience and capacity to access potential markets, while undertaking sustainable management of resources.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Lebanon is supporting national efforts to enhance sustainable agricultural development, improve food security, and strengthen the resilience of rural livelihoods. The National Plant Protection/Plant Production Specialist will contribute to the implementation of projects aimed at increasing agricultural productivity, promoting environmentally friendly practices, and mitigating plant health risks.

Reporting Lines

Under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative and direct supervision of the Resilience and Liaison Officer, in consultation with the AFAOR Programme.

Technical Focus

The incumbent will be the focal point for all FAO Lebanon on issues of plant production and protection with particular focus on plant health: providing the overall management and direction on all aspects of the projects cycle, from formulation, resource mobilization to implementation and closure.

Tasks and responsibilities

Technical Support and Coordination

•    Provide technical guidance to national counterparts on plant protection and plant production, ensuring alignment with FAO standards and best practices.
•    Support the development and implementation of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, including biological control methods and sustainable pesticide use.
•    Assist in the formulation of national policies and action plans related to plant protection and production.

Project Implementation
•    Contribute to the planning, implementation, and monitoring of FAO projects related to plant health, crop production, and sustainable farming practices.
•    Conduct field assessments to identify plant health risks, production challenges, and training needs of farmers and extension services.
•    Support the implementation of capacity-building activities, including training programs and workshops for farmers, extension agents, and other stakeholders.

Capacity Building and Awareness

•    Develop and disseminate educational materials on plant health, sustainable production practices, and pest control.
•    Organize awareness campaigns to promote environmentally friendly farming practices.

Monitoring and Reporting

•    Establish and maintain a monitoring system to evaluate the impact of interventions on plant production and protection.
•    Prepare regular progress reports, technical documents, and project updates for submission to FAO and national stakeholders.

Cross-Cutting Themes

•    Ensure that all interventions consider gender equality, climate change, and conflict sensitivity principles.
•    Promote environmentally sustainable practices and advocate for the reduction of chemical pesticide use.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements  

•    University Degree in Agriculture, Plant Protection, Plant Production, or a related field ;
•    6 years of relevant experience in plant protection, crop production, or sustainable agriculture and proven experience in implementing projects and conducting training on plant health and sustainable practices ;
•    Working knowledge (full proficiency – level C) of English and intermediate knowledge (intermediate proficiency – level B) of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish).;
•    National of Lebanon.

FAO Core Competencies

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

 

 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION