Join FAO For Office Assistant

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has announced an exciting opportunity for qualified candidates to join its headquarters in Rome, Italy, as an Office Assistant (G-3) within the Fisheries and Aquaculture Division. This vacancy, issued under a Call for Expressions of Interest , is ideal for professionals with solid administrative skills who are seeking to contribute to global food security, sustainable development, and environmental stewardship while working in a truly international environment.FAO is one of the world’s leading specialized agencies of the United Nations, dedicated to achieving food security for all and ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. Through its work, FAO supports the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by promoting agrifood systems that are more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable , contributing to better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life for all.About the PositionThe Office Assistant position is a General Service (G-3) staff role, based at FAO Headquarters in Rome, Italy . The appointment is for one year , with the possibility of extension depending on performance and organizational needs. As a General Service role, recruitment is conducted locally, meaning candidates must be nationals of Italy or hold a valid residence and work permit and live within commuting distance of the duty station.The post is located within the Assessment and Management Team (NFIFM) of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Division (NFI) , specifically supporting the EAF-Nansen Programme . This long-term programme focuses on strengthening sustainable fisheries management and ocean governance in partner countries, particularly across Africa and the Bay of Bengal, through the application of the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (EAF) .Organizational ContextThe Fisheries and Aquaculture Division plays a central role in FAO’s mandate by addressing the economic, social, governance, and environmental dimensions of fisheries and aquaculture. Its work supports food security, poverty reduction, biodiversity conservation, and the sustainable use of aquatic resources.Within this framework, the EAF-Nansen Programme supports 27 African countries and five countries in the Bay of Bengal , providing scientific advice, capacity development, and policy support to improve fisheries management. The Office Assistant will contribute to the smooth daily operations of this high-impact programme, ensuring that administrative and logistical processes function efficiently.Main Purpose of the RoleThe Office Assistant provides essential administrative and office support services , contributing to the effective functioning of the work unit. This role is critical in maintaining organized workflows, facilitating communication, and supporting programme staff in delivering results.Working under the guidance of the Senior Programme Coordinator , assigned officers, and the Programme Assistant, the Office Assistant operates independently on routine matters while seeking guidance on more complex issues. The position offers valuable exposure to FAO’s systems, procedures, and international work culture.Key Duties and ResponsibilitiesThe Office Assistant performs a wide range of routine yet vital tasks, including:Typing, formatting, and drafting routine correspondence, reports, tables, presentations, and publicationsReceiving and directing telephone calls and visitors, managing emails, and responding to routine inquiriesEntering, retrieving, structuring, and updating data from various sources and presenting it in standard formatsMaintaining office files and reference systems, including electronic signature booksInitiating, monitoring, and tracking administrative transactions in FAO’s financial, travel, and human resources systemsSupporting the organization of meetings, workshops, and events, including arranging meeting rooms and facilitiesAssisting with travel arrangements such as transport, accommodation, logistics, and documentationEnsuring the availability of office supplies and proper maintenance of office equipmentPerforming other related duties as requiredThrough these tasks, the Office Assistant plays a key role in ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and continuity within the team.Impact and Working RelationshipsAs part of an administrative support team, the Office Assistant’s work directly affects the effectiveness of the immediate work unit and contributes to the broader objectives of the Division. The role involves regular interaction with colleagues within the unit, focusing on information exchange and the delivery of standard office support services.Required Qualifications and SkillsTo be eligible for this position, candidates must meet the following minimum requirements :Education: Completion of secondary school educationExperience: At least two years of relevant experience in office support or administrative workLanguages: Working knowledge (proficiency level C) of EnglishIT Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, internet use, and office technology equipmentResidency: Must be eligible for local recruitment in Italy and reside within commuting distance of RomeIn addition, candidates will be assessed against FAO’s core competencies, including results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing .Desirable QualificationsWhile not mandatory, the following qualifications are considered an advantage:Intermediate knowledge (level B) of FrenchExperience in organizing travel and supporting large international meetings, workshops, and training eventsFamiliarity with FAO’s internal procedures, including document clearance processes and FAOSTYLE formattingFAO is strongly committed to diversity, integrity, and professional conduct . Qualified female candidates, nationals of under-represented Member States, and persons with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply. All staff members are expected to uphold FAO’s values of commitment, respect for all, integrity, and transparency .FAO also maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment, abuse of authority, discrimination, and any conduct incompatible with its mandate. The organization is a non-smoking environment and emphasizes environmental sustainability across all operations.Remuneration and BenefitsFAO offers a competitive compensation and benefits package , aligned with United Nations standards for General Service staff. As this is a locally recruited position, no international benefits apply, and salary is paid in the local currency.This Office Assistant role offers a unique opportunity to:Work at FAO headquarters in Rome within a global UN organizationGain hands-on experience supporting international fisheries and sustainability programmesDevelop professional skills in a multicultural and mission-driven environmentContribute directly to global efforts in food security, environmental protection, and sustainable developmentHow to ApplyInterested candidates are encouraged to apply well before the deadline of 23 January 2026 . Applications must be submitted online through the FAO recruitment portal, with all required information and supporting documents completed in full. Only applications received through the official system will be considered.#J-18808-Ljbffr