About the opportunity
The National PPR Specialist will support the implementation of the Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP/SAP/4104) focused on strengthening capacity for PPR freedom in Pacific Island countries. Working under the Sub-regional Office for the Pacific (SAP), the specialist will provide technical and operational support to national ministries to improve PPR surveillance, reporting, biosecurity training, and diagnostic preparedness. The ultimate goal is to help the assigned country progress toward WOAH-recognized PPR-free status. The position is home-based with a duration of 50 working days spread over a 10-month period on a ‘When Actually Employed’ (WAE) basis.
Salary and benefits
- Paid consultancy contract under a Personal Services Agreement (PSA).
- Flexible home-based work arrangement.
- Opportunity to work with a specialized United Nations agency (FAO) and collaborate with international experts and regional reference laboratories.
Who can apply?
- Must be a national or a resident with a valid work permit of one of the five target countries: Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, or the Cook Islands.
- University degree in agriculture, livestock production, animal science, or a related field.
- At least one year of relevant experience in animal health, veterinary services, livestock production, or disease surveillance (preferably within the Pacific region).
- Working knowledge of English.
Required documents
- Completed online FAO candidate profile.
- Letter of motivation attached to the online profile.
- Evidence of academic qualifications from accredited institutions listed in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).
When to apply
- Applications opened on September 18, 2026.
- The application deadline is October 9, 2026, at 9:59:00 PM (local device time).
How to apply
- Visit the FAO recruitment portal (Jobs at FAO).
- Create or log into your candidate profile and ensure all employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills are complete and accurate.
- Attach a letter of motivation to your online profile.
- Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
Additional information
- FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
- Only higher education qualifications from institutions accredited in the World Higher Education Database (WHED) are considered.
- Appointment is subject to medical fitness certification, security clearances, and residency/visa requirements.
- The contract is on a 'When Actually Employed' (WAE) basis, totaling 50 days over 10 months.
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 are an early-career animal health or veterinary professional based in Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, or the Cook Islands looking for prestigious UN-level experience.
- You have a strong background in livestock production or disease surveillance and want to contribute directly to national biosecurity and disease-free status.
- You prefer a highly flexible, home-based consultancy that can be balanced with other professional or academic commitments.
What should you think carefully about?
- The contract is part-time and intermittent, offering only 50 days of paid work spread across a 10-month period on a 'When Actually Employed' basis.
- You must already hold citizenship or a valid work permit in one of the five specified Pacific countries, as FAO will not sponsor relocation or visas for this local consultancy.
- Your degree must be from an institution recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED) to be considered eligible.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is an excellent fit for veterinary or agricultural professionals in the Pacific region aiming to build a career in international development, public health, or global biosecurity. Working directly under the FAO Sub-regional Office for the Pacific provides invaluable exposure to United Nations operations, regional reference laboratories, and national ministries. It serves as a strong stepping stone toward international consultancies or permanent roles within global organizations like the FAO or WOAH.
Our take
If you are a qualified national or resident of Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, or the Cook Islands with at least a year of animal health experience, this is a rare and highly flexible opportunity to gain UN experience from home. It is less suitable for those seeking full-time, continuous employment or individuals residing outside the five designated countries.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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