About the opportunity
The Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia (REU) of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is looking for a Digital Agriculture Specialist. The specialist will work under the supervision of the Head of Digital Agriculture to contribute to FAO’s Strategic Framework (BP5) by providing analytical and technical support, conducting research, formulating strategies, and supporting projects for the digitalization of food, agriculture, and rural areas. Key initiatives include the FAO Digital Villages (DVI), Hand-in-Hand, and AgriTech Observatory. The preferred duty station is Budapest, Hungary, but home-based arrangements in a suitable time zone may be considered.
Salary and benefits
- Consultancy contract for up to 11 months with the possibility of renewal based on performance and fund availability.
- Opportunity to work with the award-winning FAO Digital Agriculture team.
Who can apply?
- Advanced university degree in Agricultural Sciences, Digital Transformation, Information Technology, Computer Science, Data Science, Economics, International Development, Public Administration, or a related field (or a Bachelor's degree with 2 additional years of experience).
- At least 3 years of relevant experience in project management, digital transformation of the agrifood sector, agriculture, or rural development projects.
- Working knowledge (Level C) of English and Russian.
- Familiarity with emerging technologies in digital agriculture (e.g., precision agriculture, remote sensing, IoT, AI).
- Adherence to FAO values of Commitment, Respect for All, and Integrity and Transparency.
Required documents
- Completed online profile on the FAO recruitment portal.
- Letter of motivation attached to the online profile.
- Academic credentials/degrees recognized by IAU/UNESCO (WHED).
When to apply
- Applications open: September 8, 2026
- Application deadline: September 29, 2026, at 9:59:00 PM (based on personal device settings)
How to apply
- Visit the FAO recruitment website and complete your online profile, ensuring employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills are accurate.
- Attach a letter of motivation to your online profile.
- Submit your completed application through the FAO recruitment portal.
Additional information
- FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
- Only higher educational qualifications from institutions accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED) will be considered.
- Appointment is subject to medical fitness certification, accreditation, residency/visa requirements, and security clearances.
- A mandatory break from duty of at least 30 consecutive days is required within any 12-month period before contract renewal.
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…
- Advanced degree in agricultural sciences, digital transformation, or a related technical field.
- At least 3 years of experience in project management or digital transformation within the agrifood sector.
- Working knowledge of both English and Russian.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is an 11-month consultancy with a mandatory 30-day break before any potential renewal.
- While Budapest is the preferred location, home-based work may be considered, but you should verify the specific requirements for your time zone.
- The role requires adherence to FAO values and potential security clearances.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is a great fit for a specialist looking to drive digital innovation in agriculture across Europe and Central Asia. It offers the chance to work with an award-winning team on high-profile initiatives like Digital Villages, providing significant exposure to international development projects.
Our take
Excellent for digital agriculture experts who are comfortable with consultancy-based work and wish to contribute to large-scale regional transformation. Candidates who require immediate long-term stability should consider the contract duration carefully.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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