Emergency Operations Officer for Latin America and Caribbean region

FAO headquarters, Rome, with frequent backstopping missions to the field

26 September 2008

as soon as possible for an initial period of three months with possibility of extension

TCEO-Relief-consultancy@fao.org

Profile Requirements: Emergency Operation Officer

Under the overall supervision of the Chief, Emergency Operations Service, TCEO and the direct supervision of the Senior Operations Officer for the Latin America and Caribbean region (LAC), the Emergency Operations Officer will provide support in the analysis, development and implementation of operational activities of emergency and short-term rehabilitation projects in countries affected by human-induced and natural calamities. Specifically will:

• handle day-to-day operations on matters relating to emergency assistance/projects;
• analyse requests for emergency assistance to the agricultural sector;
• review information/reports on the impact of the disaster on the rural sector and participate in the design and implementation of emergency/rehabilitation projects as required;
• undertake field assessments of relief requirements in countries affected by natural or human induced calamities;
• participate in Interagency assessment field missions to countries under complex emergency conditions;
• specify quantities and determine technical specifications of agricultural inputs to be provided, as well as timing of other agricultural inputs required for emergency assistance, as required;
• participate in the design and implementation of emergency/rehabilitation projects and programmes, including budgetary management and monitoring of the approved field expenditures;
• liaise with FAO technical units to ensure technical quality in emergency activities;
• prepare/present project proposals for financial support to donors and aid programmes of the UN system;
• prepare briefs, reports and final statements and formulate correspondence with recipient governments and donors;
• liaise with other UN organizations and partners (Non Governmental Organizations, national authorities and donors, etc.) at the appropriate level for coordination of relief assistance related to emergency activities;
• maintain a database with updated information on the impact of the crisis and prioritized needs taking into account assistance provided and evolving needs, as required;
• prepare and participate in technical and international meetings related to humanitarian relief matters;
• assist in fund mobilization efforts through liaison with donors; and
• perform other related duties as required.

Essential Requirements

• University degree in a field related to the work of the Organization.
• Minimum five years of relevant experience in the sectors of agricultural and rural development including emergency operations at field and/or headquarters level.
• Working knowledge of Spanish and English. French is an asset.
• Demonstrated communication skills, both orally and in writing.
• Effective report writing and presentation skills.
• Extent of familiarity with the geographical region LAC.
• Ability to work in a team and interpersonal skills.
• Suitability/willingness to undertake prolonged field missions.