Pest Outbreak And Alert Response Specialist

Reporting LinesThe Pest Outbreak and Alert Response Specialist is under the supervision of the IPPC Implementation and Facilitation Unit Deputy Lead. Technical FocusThe incumbent will provide technical and coordination support to the IPPC Secretariat for the operational implementation of the Pest Outbreak Alert and Response Systems (POARS) contributing to the continuity of core POARS functions and supporting the delivery of time-bound, pest-specific outputs.

This includes analyzing existing information flows, enhancing the use of National Reporting Obligations (NROs), support horizon scanning activities, assessment of potential emerging pests and IPPC pest alerts and contributing to the development of harmonized technical approaches for early detection and coordinated response to emerging pests. The incumbent will facilitate the establishment and functioning of expert working groups (EWGs) and other targeted preparedness activities, which involves work with countries, regions, and technical partners to develop reference materials, improve situational awareness, and reinforce prevention and preparedness under the IPPC framework.

Tasks and responsibilitiesContribute to early awareness and identification of potential emerging pests by analysing and synthesising information from multiple sources, including pest nominations, surveillance and pest reporting under National Reporting Obligations (NROs), scientific literature, regional information and expert inputsSupport the development and refinement of POARS processes, operational workflows, and harmonised technical guidance for early detection and response. Contribute to the technical drafting, reviewing, and disseminating of IPPC pest alerts, prevention materials for emerging pests and situational reports.

Contribute to the development and maintenance of pest lists, toolboxes and technical reference materials. Provide technical and organisational support to the Steering Group, including preparation of background documents, technical briefs and meeting records.

Support the establishment, coordination and follow-up of time-bound expert working groups (EWGs), in line with approved Terms of Reference. Contribute to capacity development activities and the development and promotion of training materials, coordinating where relevant with the IPPC Plant Health Campus.

Facilitate technical exchanges and maintain coordination with NPPOs, RPPOs, FAO regional offices, and partners to ensure consistent implementation and improved information flow. Support monitoring, reporting, and knowledge management activities, progress updates, and documentation related to POARS.

Prepare minutes, reports, and technical documents, and participate in stakeholder meetings as required. CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWINGMinimum RequirementsFor Consultants: Advanced university degree from an institution recognised by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in agriculture, plant protection, phytosanitary sciences, biology, natural sciences or other relevant fields.

Consultants with a bachelors degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience. For PSAs: University degree from an institution recognised by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in agriculture, plant protection, phytosanitary sciences, biology, natural sciences or other relevant fields.

At least three years of relevant experience supporting technical programmes or projects related to plant health, including experience in one or more of the following areas: pest surveillance, early warning, basic epidemiological analysis, pest prevention, preparedness and response, or contingency planning, with demonstrated familiarity with the IPPC, relevant International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs), and international instruments. Working knowledge of English.

FAO Core CompetenciesResults FocusTeamworkCommunicationBuilding Effective RelationshipsKnowledge Sharing and Continuous ImprovementTechnical/Functional SkillsWork experience in more than one location or area of work, preferably in an international or multicultural context. Ability to analyse, synthesize and consolidate technical information related to plant health, pest surveillance, early awareness, preparedness or outbreak response support, drawing on diverse information sources.

Experience

contributing to early awareness or situational understanding of plant health risks through the use of pest reports, surveillance information, expert inputs, scientific literature, regional information or other relevant sources. Ability to support coordination mechanisms, expert groups or technical working groups, including preparation of background documentation, tracking of deliverables and follow-up actions. Familiarity with the use of digital or IT tools (e.g., data management, GIS-supported analysis or AI-assisted information workflows) to support technical analysis and coordination activities.

Experience

organising, facilitating and supporting technical meetings, workshops or stakeholder consultations, including preparation of meeting records and technical summaries. Desirable skillsWorking knowledge of other FAO languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Spanish or Russian) would be desirable. Selection CriteriaQualifications in one or more of the following areas are desirable, but not mandatory:Experience supporting capacity development and/or awareness-raising activities related to plant health or biosecurity.

Familiarity with at least one relevant technical discipline, such as phytopathology, entomology, weed science, plant virology, nematology, plant bacteriology, or related fields. Please note that all candidates should adhere to FAO Values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All and Integrity and Transparency. ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONFAO 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 recognised in the IAU/UNESCO listPlease note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognised 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 atFor more information, visit the FAO employment websiteAppointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.#J-*****-Ljbffr