About the opportunity
The Technical Process Specialist in Second-level Associative Arrangements (National Project Personnel) will support the Casanare Agro-Food Supply Network (RED) project in Colombia. Under the supervision of the FAO Representative in Colombia and senior specialists, the specialist will identify, analyze, and recommend second-level organizational structures (such as cooperatives, mutual associations, or non-profits) that best suit the network’s needs. Key responsibilities include conducting baseline characterizations of participating organizations, designing governance and business models, formulating a legal constitution roadmap, and integrating gender-transformative approaches to ensure women’s active participation in decision-making.
Salary and benefits
- 12-month temporary contract as National Project Personnel (NPP) with a 2-month probationary period.
- Professional experience within a specialized agency of the United Nations (FAO).
- Opportunity to contribute directly to rural development, territorial inclusion, and food security in Colombia.
Who can apply?
- University degree in economics, social sciences, administration, or related fields.
- At least 5 years of post-graduation experience in rural development, territorial development, or rural economic inclusion programs/projects.
- At least 3 certified years of experience in organizational, business, legal, and accounting strengthening of peasant, family, and community agriculture organizations, solidary economy organizations, and/or second-level organizations.
- Practical knowledge of Spanish (Level C).
- Colombian nationality or legal residency in Colombia with a valid work permit.
Required documents
- Completed online candidate profile on the FAO recruitment portal.
- Academic degrees or credentials (must be from institutions listed in the World Higher Education Database – WHED).
- Certificates of relevant work experience verifying the required years of experience.
When to apply
- Applications open: October 8, 2026.
- Application deadline: October 22, 2026, at 21:59:00 (local device time).
How to apply
- Visit the FAO recruitment website (FAO Careers).
- Complete and update your online candidate profile.
- Submit your application online through the official portal before the deadline.
- Ensure all sections are complete, as incomplete applications will not be considered.
Additional information
- FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, processing).
- Only academic degrees from institutions listed in the World Higher Education Database (WHED) maintained by the IAU/UNESCO will be considered.
- FAO is a smoke-free environment.
- The position is based in Yopal, Colombia, and requires regular field visits.
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…
- You have a strong background in rural development and solidary economy structures in Colombia, particularly with peasant and family farming cooperatives.
- You possess deep knowledge of the Colombian legal and tax frameworks governing non-profit organizations and solidary economy entities.
- You are passionate about gender equality and have practical experience integrating gender-transformative approaches into community-led business models.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role is a temporary 12-month contract (National Project Personnel) with a 2-month probationary period, which may not offer long-term job security.
- The position is strictly on-site in Yopal, Colombia, and requires regular field visits and travel to local rural communities.
- Only academic degrees from institutions listed in the World Higher Education Database (WHED) are accepted, which requires careful verification before applying.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is an excellent fit for mid-career professionals in rural development or agricultural economics looking to gain high-impact experience within the United Nations system. It offers a unique opportunity to lead the structural and legal design of a regional agro-food supply network, enhancing your expertise in cooperative governance, public-private partnerships, and sustainable business modeling.
Our take
Highly qualified Colombian nationals or residents with at least five years of experience in rural economic inclusion and a strong grasp of solidary economy frameworks should seriously consider applying. It is less suitable for those seeking permanent international civil servant roles or remote work arrangements.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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