About the opportunity
The Livestock Technical Specialist will provide technical assistance and support to recover and strengthen the livestock production systems of participating families and communities in the department of Córdoba, Colombia. This role focuses on promoting sustainable and resilient practices, capacity building, and risk management to help restore livelihoods affected by climate variability (such as heavy rains and flooding in early 2026). The position is based in the municipality of Tierralta, Córdoba, under the general supervision of the FAO Representative in Colombia, the Program Officer, the Senior Specialist for Risk Management and Livelihood Rehabilitation, and the Project Coordinator.
Salary and benefits
- Financial compensation under a National Project Personnel (NPP) contract.
- Opportunity to work with a specialized United Nations agency.
- Professional experience in humanitarian response, food security, and sustainable agricultural practices.
Who can apply?
- Professional, technical, or technologist degree in livestock areas or related fields.
- At least 4 years of post-graduation experience in implementing projects aimed at recovering and strengthening livestock production at family, community, and organizational scales.
- Practical knowledge of Spanish (Level C).
- Colombian nationality or legal residency in Colombia with a valid work permit.
- Experience in managing livestock production systems (cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and minor species).
- Experience in identifying and applying sustainable and resilient livestock production practices.
- Availability to travel to different locations outside the primary work site.
Required documents
- Completed online candidate profile on the FAO recruitment portal.
- Academic degrees/credentials (must be from institutions listed in the World Higher Education Database – WHED).
When to apply
- Applications opened on October 9, 2026.
- The application deadline is October 23, 2026, at 21:59:00 (local/device time).
How to apply
- Visit the FAO recruitment website (FAO Careers).
- Complete and update your online profile.
- Submit the online application for this specific position (Job Number: 2602103) before the deadline.
Additional information
- The position is a temporary contract (National Project Personnel – NPP) for 6 months, with a 2-month probationary period.
- The position is physically located in the municipality of Tierralta, Department of Córdoba, Colombia.
- FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
- FAO has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and discrimination.
- Smoking is prohibited on FAO premises.
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 have a solid background in animal science, veterinary medicine, or agricultural technology, combined with at least 4 years of experience working directly with rural communities.
- You possess practical experience managing diverse livestock (cattle, pigs, small ruminants) and implementing climate-resilient farming practices.
- You are familiar with the local context of the Córdoba department or have experience working with indigenous and ethnic communities in fragile environmental settings.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a temporary, 6-month contract with a 2-month probationary period, which may not suit those seeking long-term job security.
- The role is strictly on-site in Tierralta, Córdoba, and requires frequent travel to remote field locations.
- Your academic degree must be from an institution recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED) to be considered.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is an excellent fit for agricultural and livestock professionals looking to gain hands-on experience with a major United Nations agency (FAO). It offers a direct path to developing expertise in humanitarian response, disaster risk reduction, and climate change adaptation within vulnerable rural communities.
Our take
Highly recommended for Colombian nationals or legal residents with a background in livestock production and community development who are ready to relocate to or work in Tierralta, Córdoba. It is less suitable for those seeking remote work or long-term permanent employment.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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