About the opportunity
The FAO Sub-Regional Office for the Caribbean (FAO – SLC), based in Barbados, supports member countries in building sustainable, inclusive, and resilient agri-food systems. Under the direct supervision of the Sub-regional Coordinator for the Caribbean and reporting to the Field Programme Support and Monitoring Officer, the Programme Specialist coordinates technical and operational support for projects across Barbados and the OECS (Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines). Key duties include formulating project proposals, supporting budget holders, liaising with government authorities and UN agencies, coordinating Country Programming Frameworks, and supporting resource mobilization.
Salary and benefits
- Paid international or national consultancy engagement with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization
- 11-month contract assignment based at the Sub-Regional Office for the Caribbean in Barbados
- Professional experience coordinating multi-country agricultural and climate resilience portfolios
Who can apply?
- Advanced university degree (or university degree from an institution recognized by IAU/UNESCO) in climate change, agriculture, environmental sciences, natural resource management, or a related discipline relevant to FAO
- Candidates holding a bachelor's degree require two additional years of relevant professional experience
- At least 5 years of relevant experience in agricultural development, project development, implementation, monitoring, and sustainable agriculture
- Working knowledge of English (Level C)
- Demonstrated core competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing
- Work experience in more than one location or area of work, and previous UN system experience, are considered assets
- Appointment is subject to medical fitness certification, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances
Required documents
- Completed online candidate profile on the FAO recruitment portal, including detailed employment history, academic qualifications, and language proficiencies
- Letter of motivation attached to the online profile
- Performance assessments and authorization to conduct background verification checks (upon request)
When to apply
- Job posted: October 12, 2026
- Application deadline: October 26, 2026, at 10:59:00 PM (or 7:59:00 PM GMT, depending on local device time settings)
- Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before the closing deadline
How to apply
- Visit the FAO recruitment portal at Jobs at FAO and create or update your online candidate profile
- Ensure all educational qualifications conform to accredited institutions listed in the IAU/WHED database and align with ISCED mappings
- Attach a tailored letter of motivation to the application profile
- Complete and submit the online application for job requisition number 2602115 before the closing date
Additional information
- This position is classified as a Non-staff opportunity under an 11-month Consultant contract
- FAO does not charge any application, interview, or processing fees at any stage of recruitment
- The FAO working environment is strictly non-smoking
- Technical support queries can be directed via registration at https://fao.service-now.com/csp
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…
- Experienced project managers with 5+ years supporting climate resilience, natural resources, or agricultural development projects
- Professionals with prior experience in the Caribbean region or multi-country project operations within the UN development system
- Candidates holding an advanced degree in agricultural or environmental sciences with strong skills in operational oversight and results-based planning
What should you think carefully about?
- This is an 11-month non-staff consultancy contract rather than a permanent staff appointment
- The role requires physical on-site presence in Barbados and operational oversight across seven Caribbean island nations
- Appointment is contingent on medical clearance, security clearance, and satisfying local visa or residency regulations
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This consultancy is well-suited for mid-career international development and environmental policy professionals looking to deepen their operational project management experience within the UN system. It provides substantial regional exposure across seven Caribbean small island developing states, focusing on high-priority areas including climate resilience, food security, and sustainable agri-food systems.
Our take
Strong candidates with a solid background in Caribbean agricultural development, project monitoring, and UN coordination should prioritize applying before the short two-week application window closes. It is less suitable for individuals seeking permanent international civil servant contracts or fully remote consultancy arrangements.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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