About the opportunity
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) leads international efforts to defeat hunger and achieve food security for all. The FAO Regular Volunteer Programme provides opportunities for individuals to contribute their volunteer actions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and FAO’s Strategic Framework. The programme supports the 2030 Agenda through the transformation toward more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind. Volunteers are assigned to tasks and responsibilities specified in the Terms of Reference prepared by the hiring office.
Salary and benefits
- Opportunity to gain professional experience within the United Nations system.
- Contribute directly to global food security and sustainable development initiatives.
- Work in an international, multicultural environment.
Who can apply?
- Must have completed secondary school education.
- Working knowledge of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish); knowledge of a second FAO language is an asset.
- Must be nationals of FAO Members.
- Candidates must be aged 18 or older.
- Must be able to adapt to an international multicultural environment and possess good communication skills.
- Relevant working or research experience in one of the fields of the Organization is required.
- Candidates with family members employed by FAO under any contractual arrangement are not eligible.
Required documents
- Letter of motivation
- Copy of academic qualifications
When to apply
- Job posting date: September 21, 2026
- Application deadline: December 31, 2026, at 10:59:00 PM UTC
How to apply
- Visit the recruitment website at Jobs at FAO and complete your online profile with employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills.
- Attach your letter of motivation and copies of your academic qualifications to the online profile.
- Submit your application through the FAO recruitment portal.
Additional information
- FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
- Qualified female applicants, nationals of non- and under-represented members, and candidates from LIFDCs, LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS are encouraged to apply.
- Selected candidates must have appropriate residence or immigration status in the proposed country of assignment prior to joining the Organization.
- FAO does not provide any remuneration to volunteers.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Ideal for individuals seeking hands-on international experience within the UN system to kick-start a career in global development or agri-food systems.
- Great fit for candidates with relevant educational or professional backgrounds who want to contribute volunteer service toward global sustainability goals.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is completely unpaid and does not provide financial remuneration.
- Volunteers must secure their own appropriate residence or immigration status in the proposed country of assignment.
- Duration is limited to a maximum of 6 months.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This volunteer placement is well-suited for early-career professionals, students, or individuals looking to build practical skills, gain exposure to international organizations, and network within the global agricultural and food security sector.
Our take
Candidates who are in a position to self-fund a short-term, unpaid professional experience and want to contribute to UN sustainable development goals should consider applying. It is less suitable for applicants who require a salary or financial stipend to support their living expenses.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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