Application Cycle Concluded
The listed deadline for this opening was August 7, 2026. Application criteria, required documents, and preparation guidelines below remain active for upcoming academic cycles. Explore active live openings below.
About this opportunity
FAO is hiring a National Operations Officer based in Ethiopia, with applications due by August 7, 2026. This role sits at the operational core of the organization's work in the country, coordinating the logistics, budgets, and field activities that keep FAO's agricultural and food security programs running. It is a national position, meaning it is open to Ethiopian nationals or those with the right to work in the country, and it is a substantial role for someone with solid experience in operations management, ideally within the UN system or another international organization. The Food and Agriculture Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations, founded in 1945, with a mandate to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and food security globally. It operates with over 194 member states and works in more than 130 countries. In Ethiopia, FAO is deeply involved in emergency agriculture response, resilience building, and long-term development programs, often coordinating with the government, other UN agencies, and local NGOs to support smallholder farmers and pastoralist communities. The organization's work in Ethiopia is particularly significant given the country's recurring drought cycles and the need for sustainable agricultural practices. Working in Ethiopia means operating in a country with a rapidly growing economy but also significant logistical challenges. Addis Ababa, the capital, is a bustling hub for international organizations and the African Union, with a moderate climate year-round due to its high altitude. The cost of living is relatively low compared to Western standards, though inflation has been a concern. For a national officer, the role offers the chance to work on high-impact programs while being based in a country with a rich cultural heritage and a dynamic working environment. The UN system in Ethiopia is well established, with a strong presence of agencies like WFP, UNICEF, and UNDP, creating a collaborative professional atmosphere. This role is for someone who thrives on coordination and problem-solving. It is not a desk job in the traditional sense; it involves constant communication with field teams, government counterparts, and suppliers. If you have a background in operations, finance, or project management and want to apply those skills to agricultural development, this is a chance to do so within one of the largest UN agencies.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate and oversee the day-to-day operational activities of FAO projects in Ethiopia, ensuring alignment with organizational policies and donor requirements.
- Manage project budgets, monitor expenditures, and prepare financial reports for internal and external stakeholders.
- Liaise with government ministries, local authorities, and partner organizations to facilitate smooth implementation of field activities.
- Supervise procurement processes, including the acquisition of agricultural inputs, equipment, and services, ensuring compliance with FAO rules and regulations.
- Organize and coordinate logistics for field missions, workshops, training sessions, and other project events.
- Support the preparation of project work plans, progress reports, and other documentation required by FAO headquarters and donors.
- Monitor project performance against established indicators and recommend corrective actions when needed.
- Provide operational guidance and capacity building to junior staff and field teams.
Benefits
- Competitive salary based on the UN National Officer scale, with annual increments.
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage for the employee and dependents.
- Participation in the UN pension fund.
- Annual leave, sick leave, and other entitlements as per UN staff rules.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
Requirements & Qualifications
- A university degree in business administration, public administration, economics, agriculture, or a related field. An advanced degree is an advantage.
- At least five years of relevant experience in operations, administration, or project management, preferably within the UN system or an international organization.
- Working knowledge of English is required. Knowledge of Amharic or another local language is an asset.
- Strong understanding of financial management, procurement, and human resources processes.
- Proven ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural team.
- Proficiency in standard office software, including spreadsheets and project management tools.
- National of Ethiopia or holder of a valid work permit for the country.
How to Apply
- Prepare your CV and a cover letter highlighting your relevant experience in operations and your motivation for working with FAO.
- Review the full job description and ensure you meet all the qualifications before applying.
- Click the Apply button below to submit your application.
Ready to start your application?
Submit your materials before the official deadline.
Verify all official guidelines and eligibility criteria directly with the host institution before submitting. Prepare your transcript evaluation, referee letters, and motivational statement early to avoid deadline bottleneck delays.
Official Application Strategy & Recommended Tools
Selection Committee Priorities
- •Academic/Professional Alignment: Ensure your statement explicitly ties your past work in Ethiopia to Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)'s strategic goals.
- •Leadership Evidence: Selection panels heavily weigh demonstrated initiative, community impact, or research output.
- •Financial & Language Prerequisites: Confirm if Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificates can substitute for formal standardized language test fees.
