About the opportunity
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is hiring a Project Coordinator to support the ‘Sustainable Fish Value Chains for Landlocked Developing Countries (SVC4LLDCs)’ project in Zambia. Based in Nchelenge, the incumbent will act as a key link between FAO Headquarters and local project partners. The role involves managing project work plans, conducting value chain analysis, leading multi-stakeholder platforms, and ensuring the effective implementation of sustainable aquatic food systems. The position requires strong strategic leadership, monitoring and evaluation capabilities, and the ability to collaborate with government, private sector, and research institutions to achieve project objectives under the Blue Transformation Roadmap.
Salary and benefits
- Professional experience within a specialized UN agency
- Opportunity to contribute to sustainable aquatic food systems and rural livelihoods
- Engagement in high-level project management and multi-stakeholder coordination
Who can apply?
- Advanced university degree in Fisheries and Aquaculture, Agricultural Economics, Agribusiness, Project Management, Natural Resource Management, or a related field
- Minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in value chain development related to fisheries, aquaculture, agriculture, forestry, or natural resources
- Working knowledge (level C) of English
- Must be a national of Zambia or a resident with a valid work permit
Required documents
- Online profile including employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills
- Letter of motivation
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by 2026-10-15, 9:59:00 PM
How to apply
- Visit the official FAO recruitment portal
- Complete and update your online profile with all required information
- Attach a letter of motivation to the profile
- Submit the application through the portal before the deadline
Additional information
- The appointment is for 12 months with the possibility of extension
- FAO does not charge any fees for the recruitment process
- Only qualifications from institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED) are considered
- Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks
- FAO is a non-smoking environment
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 a background in fisheries or agricultural value chain development who are looking to apply their expertise in a development-focused, field-based role.
- Candidates with proven experience in managing donor-funded projects and facilitating multi-stakeholder dialogues in the Zambian context.
- Individuals who possess strong project management and monitoring and evaluation skills, particularly those familiar with results-based management frameworks.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a fixed-term, project-based role (NPP), which may not offer the same long-term stability as permanent staff positions.
- The role is based in Nchelenge, Zambia; applicants should be prepared for the specific working environment and location requirements of this field assignment.
- The application process is highly structured; ensure all educational qualifications are verified against the WHED database to avoid disqualification.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is an excellent opportunity for mid-to-senior level professionals to gain significant experience within a UN agency while directly contributing to sustainable development goals in the fisheries sector. It is ideal for those looking to transition into or deepen their impact in international development, project coordination, and value chain analysis.
Our take
This position is highly suitable for experienced professionals in the agricultural or fisheries sectors who are based in or eligible to work in Zambia. It is less suitable for those seeking a headquarters-based role or those without the specific five-year experience requirement in value chain development.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified
