About the opportunity
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is seeking a specialist to support the project ‘Conservation and sustainable development of the Lake Maracaibo basin, as a contribution to the improvement of the Caribbean Large Marine Ecosystem.’ This initiative, part of the GEF-8 Clean and Healthy Oceans Integrated Program, aims to address eutrophication and marine hypoxia by reducing nutrient and pollutant flows from agricultural, industrial, and municipal sources. The specialist will lead technical planning, coordination, and execution of wastewater treatment activities, including the implementation of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) and the rehabilitation of existing treatment plants in the Lake Maracaibo system.
Salary and benefits
- Professional engagement with a major international environmental project funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF).
- Opportunity to lead technical interventions and pilot projects in sanitation and Nature-Based Solutions.
- Contribution to regional environmental sustainability and policy development in the Lake Maracaibo basin.
Who can apply?
- University degree in civil engineering, chemical engineering, or related fields.
- Master's degree in sanitary engineering, environmental engineering, or a similar discipline.
- At least 10 years of experience in environmental projects related to domestic and industrial wastewater treatment.
- Practical knowledge of Spanish and English (level B).
- Must be a national of Venezuela or a resident with a valid work permit.
Required documents
- Online profile completed via the FAO recruitment portal.
- Academic credentials aligned with the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) standards.
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by 2026-10-23, 00:59:00 UTC.
How to apply
- Visit the FAO recruitment website.
- Create or update your online profile.
- Submit your application through the portal before the deadline.
- Ensure all information is complete, as incomplete applications will not be considered.
Additional information
- The position is a National Project Personnel (NPP) role.
- The contract duration is 11 months.
- Candidates must adhere to FAO values of commitment, respect, integrity, and transparency.
- Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.
- FAO does not charge fees 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 extensive experience in sanitary engineering and wastewater treatment plant rehabilitation.
- Experts familiar with Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) and nutrient balance analysis in aquatic ecosystems.
- Candidates with a background in implementing environmental projects funded by multilateral organizations.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a fixed-term, 11-month contract, which may not offer long-term stability beyond the project duration.
- The role requires immediate availability and the ability to spend long periods in the project intervention area in Venezuela.
- Applicants must be based in or have legal authorization to work in Venezuela.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is an excellent opportunity for a senior environmental engineer to apply their technical expertise to a high-impact, large-scale ecological restoration project. It provides a platform to influence public policy and infrastructure development in the Lake Maracaibo basin while working within the framework of a major UN-led environmental program.
Our take
This position is highly suitable for experienced sanitary engineers currently based in Venezuela who are looking to contribute to significant environmental infrastructure and policy improvements. It is less suitable for those seeking permanent international staff positions or those unable to commit to field-based work in the region.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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