About the opportunity
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda by supporting the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. The Liaison Office in Japan (LOJ) in Yokohama is responsible for liaison with the Government of Japan, civil society, and international organizations. The Office Assistant coordinates and executes office support, management support, and administrative functions, ensuring quality, consistency, and smooth workflow across the unit.
Salary and benefits
- Competitive UN compensation and benefits package based on local General Service salary scales (Grade Level G-5)
- Two-year fixed-term appointment with the possibility of extension
- Staff position with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
Who can apply?
- Secondary school education
- At least four years of relevant experience in office and management support work
- Working knowledge (proficiency level C) of English
- Very good knowledge of MS Office applications, the internet, and office technology equipment
- Must be a national of Japan or possess an existing valid visa/work permit to work in Japan and reside within commuting distance of Yokohama at the time of application
- Working knowledge (proficiency level C) of Japanese is desirable
- Intermediate knowledge (level B) of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is desirable
- Experience in procurement-related activities and payment review/processing is desirable
Required documents
- Completed online candidate profile via the Jobs at FAO recruitment portal
- Official language proficiency certificates (from UN-accredited external providers or FAO language examinations such as LPE, ILE, LRT)
- Performance assessments and authorizations for background/reference verification (if requested)
When to apply
- Application posting date: August 21, 2026
- Application closure deadline: September 4, 2026, at 9:59:00 PM (device time)
How to apply
- Visit the FAO recruitment portal at Jobs at FAO
- Create and complete your online applicant profile
- Attach required language certificates and submit your application online for Vacancy Announcement 2601807 before the deadline
Additional information
- General Service staff are recruited locally; no international benefits are payable as staff are paid in the local currency (JPY)
- Appointment is subject to medical fitness certification, security clearances, and valid residency/visa status
- FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process
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…
- Professionals with at least four years of experience in office and management support.
- Candidates with a working knowledge of English and Japanese (the latter being highly desirable).
- Those with experience in procurement and payment processing.
What should you think carefully about?
- Liaison office roles often involve high-level coordination; verify the specific daily workflow of the Liaison Office in Japan.
- Candidates must be Japanese nationals or hold a valid work permit and reside within commuting distance of Yokohama.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This opportunity allows a professional to act as a bridge between the FAO and the Government of Japan, building significant experience in diplomatic liaison and office management.
Our take
A great fit for Japan-based professionals with strong administrative skills who want a stable, two-year UN staff position.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified
