About the opportunity
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals through its global mandate. The Rural Transformation and Gender Equality Division (ESP) coordinates FAO’s work on social protection, gender equality, decent rural employment, rural institutions and people’s empowerment, and the right to food. The Social Protection Team (SOCPRO) in the ESP Division is calling for expressions of interest to join the divisional roster of technical social protection specialists. Successful applicants may be called upon to conduct work related to their area of expertise under the overall technical supervision of the SOCPRO Team Leader and/or Social Policy Officer.
Salary and benefits
- Non-staff consultant / PSA contract opportunity with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
- Duration of up to 11 months
Who can apply?
- Relevant technical university degree or certificate (for PSAs) or advanced university degree (for Consultants) from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in political science, social policy, development studies, disaster management, economics, institutional development, or other relevant social sciences
- Consultants with a bachelor's degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience
- At least one (1) year for Category C, five (5) years for Category B, ten (10) years for Category A of relevant experience in social protection, socio-economic analysis, policy assistance, and capacity building in relation to social protection
- Working knowledge of English (level C)
- Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non- and under-represented Members, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply
Required documents
- Online profile including employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills
- Letter of motivation attached to the online profile
When to apply
- Job Posting Date: 11/Aug/2026
- Closure Date: 01/Sep/2026, 9:59:00 PM
How to apply
- Visit the recruitment website at Jobs at FAO and complete your online profile
- Ensure your profile is accurate, complete, and includes your employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills
- Attach a letter of motivation to your online profile
- Apply and submit your application through the FAO recruitment portal before the deadline
Additional information
- Knowledge of a second FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish) is considered an asset
- FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process
- Appointment is subject to certification of medical fitness, visa requirements, and security clearances
- All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks
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…
- Technical experts in social protection, socio-economic analysis, or policy assistance.
- Candidates with varying levels of experience (1 to 10+ years) looking to join a divisional roster.
- Qualified female applicants and nationals from under-represented countries are specifically encouraged to apply.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a roster-based opportunity, meaning placement is not guaranteed and depends on future project needs.
- The contract is for up to 11 months, which is a temporary arrangement.
- Applicants should verify their degree recognition via the IAU/UNESCO database.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
Joining this roster is a strategic move for social policy experts who want to be considered for FAO projects as they arise. It provides a flexible way to contribute to the 2030 Agenda and gain experience in international social protection policy without an immediate, permanent commitment.
Our take
A great option for social protection specialists who want to remain visible for potential FAO consultancy assignments and contribute to global rural transformation efforts.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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