About the opportunity
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has secured funding from the Kunming Biodiversity Fund (KBF) to implement project UNJP/SRL/009/UNJ, titled “Prevention and Control of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) for Enhanced Biosecurity in Sri Lanka.” The project drives transformational change by establishing a comprehensive, institutionalized national biosecurity framework that prevents future invasions, mitigates existing impacts, and enhances ecosystem resilience in support of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. FAO Sri Lanka is recruiting a National Specialist in IAS Monitoring, Reporting and Communication to provide technical expertise in establishing a sustainable national monitoring and reporting system for Invasive Alien Species, while leading communication and public awareness initiatives that promote biosecurity. The assignment runs for 186 days on a home-based arrangement.
Salary and benefits
- Remuneration provided through a Personal Services Agreement (PSA)
- Professional experience supporting a major UN biodiversity and biosecurity project
- Opportunity to lead digital dashboard development and national communication campaigns
Who can apply?
- Advanced university degree in Environmental Science, Communications, Information Management, or a related field from an institution recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED)
- Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in environmental management, biodiversity, monitoring and reporting, or communications
- Working knowledge of English and fluency in Sinhala and/or Tamil
- National of Sri Lanka or resident of the country with a valid work permit
Required documents
- Online profile containing employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills
- Letter of motivation attached to the online profile
When to apply
- Job Posting Date: September 30, 2026
- Application Deadline: October 14, 2026, at 9:59 PM UTC
How to apply
- Visit the FAO recruitment portal and complete your online profile with accurate employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills
- Attach a letter of motivation to your online profile
- Submit your application through the recruitment portal before the closing date
Additional information
- FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
- Appointment is subject to certification of medical fitness, visa or residency requirements, security clearances, and where applicable, COVID-19 vaccination.
- Higher educational qualifications must be accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).
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…
- Strong background in environmental science, biodiversity management, or development communications combined with at least five years of professional experience.
- Exceptional linguistic profile with fluency in Sinhala and/or Tamil alongside working English proficiency.
- Demonstrated expertise in digital platforms, data management systems, or public awareness campaign creation.
What should you think carefully about?
- The assignment has a fixed duration of 186 days under a Personal Services Agreement rather than a permanent staff contract.
- Applicants must hold valid work authorization or citizenship in Sri Lanka.
- The application window is brief, closing on October 14, 2026.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is well-suited for environmental and communication professionals seeking to apply their technical and outreach skills within a high-profile international framework. It offers valuable UN project experience, digital dashboard oversight, and direct engagement with national biosecurity policy in Sri Lanka.
Our take
Qualified environmental science, monitoring, or communications professionals who are nationals or residents of Sri Lanka should seriously consider applying before the October 2026 deadline. Candidates lacking an advanced degree or the required language proficiencies will not be suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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