Forest Health And Protection Specialist

Reporting Lines The incumbent reports to a Forestry Officer, under the overall guidance of the Senior Forestry Officer/Team Leader of the Forests and Climate Team.S/he will work closely with members of the team and the Division, Decentralized Offices and other relevant FAO units.Technical Focus The technical focus of the work is forest health, with specialized knowledge in forest pests, diseases, invasive species, phytosanitary regulations, biosecurity, integrated fire management and related areas.The role involves working on projects related to forest health and contributing to the development of technical guidelines and reports.This includes collaborating closely with FAO partners to ensure effective measures to safeguard forests, while promoting sustainable management and environmental resilience.Tasks and responsibilities • Conduct an analysis of emerging trends in biotic and abiotic threats affecting forests.• Provide advice on policies, as well as on sound strategies and methods of integrated pest management or integrated fire management for the protection of forests and forest lands.• Provide technical support for capacity building by generating, compiling and disseminating technical information, publications, guidelines and training course materials.• Plan, organize and participate in international meetings, seminars and workshops on matters related to forest protection and health or fire management.• Lead the development of viable responses to forest health emergencies and pest and disease outbreaks and long-term solutions including natural sources of resistance and biodiversity.• Work closely with partner organizations to strategize and plan initiatives aimed at safeguarding forests.• Collaborate on pest risk analysis and environmental impact assessments related to forest health.• Provide expert input on potential forest risks and mitigation strategies.• Provide technical support to the regional invasive species networks and assist with facilitating activities and meetings.• Perform other duties as needed.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 -31: FAO social media policy and guidelines: style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Social Media Branding Guidelines: style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> FAOSTYLE style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> FAO terminology style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> FAO Names of Countries style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> 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.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 applied entomology, plant pathology, forest protection, environmental science, biology, forestry, law, international development or a related field.Consultants with a bachelor's degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience.For PSAs: University degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in applied entomology, plant pathology, forest protection, environmental science, biology, forestry, law, international development or a related field.• Relevant work experience (at least 1 year for a category C, 5 years for a category B, or 10 years for a category A) in forest health and forest invasive species management or integrated fire management.• Working knowledge (proficient – level C) of English.FAO Core Competencies • Results Focus • Teamwork • Communication • Building Effective Relationships • Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement Technical/Functional Skills • Limited knowledge (intermediate – level B) of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish) would be an asset.• Strategic Partnership Development: Proven ability to establish strategic partnerships and scientific networks within the field of forest health or fire management, collaborating effectively with academic experts, research institutions, and relevant scientific organizations.• In-depth Knowledge of Forest Health Policies: Proficient understanding of global, regional, and local forest health policies, initiatives, and best practices, with a focus on pest, disease, and invasive species management or fire management.• Data Management Expertise: Desirable skills in data management, encompassing the collection, analysis, and interpretation of forest health data.Proficiency in utilizing data-driven insights to inform decision-making processes related to forest pests, diseases, and invasive species management, or fire management.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 style="font-family:Arial;font-size:small;"> 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.