About the opportunity
This position is part of the project ‘Rehabilitation and Integrated Sustainable Development of Algerian Cork Oak Forest Production Landscapes.’ The project aims to ensure the conservation and sustainable management of globally important cork oak forest ecosystems in Algeria across three pilot sites (Béni Idder in Jijel, Taourirt Ighil in Béjaïa, and Hafir in Tlemcen). The Specialist will report directly to the FAO Representative and the Lead Technical Officer (LTO), working with a high degree of independence to develop national guidelines, establish a reference framework for best practices, and build the capacity of forestry officers across 24 provinces (wilayas).
Salary and benefits
- Paid temporary contract under a Personal Services Agreement (PSA)
- Initial contract duration of 6 months, with the possibility of renewal
- Extensive field learning opportunities to enhance professional skills through practical experience
Who can apply?
- Must be an Algerian national or a resident of Algeria with a valid work permit
- Advanced university degree (Master's, Engineer, or higher) in forest ecology, forestry, forest ecosystem management, biodiversity conservation, environmental sciences, agronomy, or an equivalent discipline
- At least 5 years of experience in sustainable forest ecosystem management and biodiversity conservation
- Fluent in French and Arabic
- Strong results orientation, teamwork, communication, and relationship-building skills
Required documents
- Completed online application form on the FAO recruitment portal
- Academic degrees and diplomas (must be from recognized institutions listed in the World Higher Education Database)
When to apply
- Applications opened on October 8, 2026
- The application deadline is October 22, 2026, at 21:59:00 (local time/device settings)
How to apply
- Visit the FAO recruitment portal (Jobs at FAO)
- Complete and submit the online application form
- Ensure all sections are fully completed, as incomplete applications will not be considered
- Submit the application well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical issues
Additional information
- FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, processing)
- FAO is a non-smoking environment
- For assistance or questions, candidates can register with the FAO customer support team at https://fao.service-now.com/csp
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…
- You hold an advanced degree in forestry, forest ecology, or environmental sciences and have at least 5 years of experience in managing forest ecosystems.
- You possess deep knowledge of Mediterranean ecosystems, particularly cork oak forests, and integrated landscape management.
- You are fluent in both French and Arabic, which are essential for coordinating with local communities and national forestry institutions.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is a temporary Personal Services Agreement (PSA) contract with an initial duration of 6 months, though it is renewable.
- The role is strictly limited to Algerian nationals or foreign residents who already hold a valid Algerian work permit.
- You must be comfortable working with a high degree of independence in daily operations and taking ownership of routine tasks.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is an excellent opportunity for mid-career forestry and environmental professionals looking to make a tangible impact on national-level conservation policies. By developing national guidelines and training forestry officers across 24 provinces, the specialist will gain high-level institutional experience with a major United Nations agency while contributing directly to the sustainable management of Algeria's cork oak ecosystems.
Our take
This position is highly suitable for qualified Algerian forestry experts or local residents with a strong background in Mediterranean forest ecology and capacity building. It is not suitable for international applicants who do not already possess the right to work in Algeria or those seeking long-term permanent employment from the outset.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified
