FAO Zimbabwe Seeks National Environmental and Social Safeguarding Specialist to Support Food Security Initiatives

National Environmental and Social Safeguarding Specialist

FAO seeks to recruit a National Environmental and Social Safeguarding Specialist to ensure the effective integration of environmental and social safeguards (ESS) into the project, including the review and update of the Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF).

FAO Zimbabwe supports national efforts to promote sustainable agrifood systems, climate resilience, and responsible natural resource management through its Country Programme Framework (2022–2026). As part of the African Development Bank’s (AfDB) African Emergency Food Production Facility (AEFPF), FAO is implementing the Zimbabwe Emergency Food Production Project (ZEFPP) to enhance food security and resilience in the face of climate change and global food system disruptions.

About FAO

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and food security. With a focus on sustainable agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and the responsible use of natural resources, FAO is committed to supporting inclusive and resilient food systems worldwide.

FAO promotes workforce diversity and encourages applications from qualified female candidates, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. All FAO personnel are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism and adhere to the organization’s values and Code of Conduct.

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Key Responsibilities

Under the overall guidance of the FAO Representative and direct supervision of the Assistant FAO Representative Programme, the Environmental and Social Safeguarding Specialist will work closely with the ESM Unit at headquarters and the ZEFPP Project Coordinator.

Main duties include:

Provide technical support to implementation teams to ensure alignment with FAO and AfDB environmental and social safeguard policies.
Identify potential ESS risks and recommend activities that should be excluded due to poor environmental or social performance.
Participate in project planning and supervision missions, and develop Terms of Reference (ToRs) for environmental and social impact assessments.
Review progress reports on safeguard compliance and recommend corrective actions.
Develop and monitor an Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) plan and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for risk mitigation.
Provide training to FAO and partner staff on ESS assessments, mitigation plans, and compliance.
Develop and operationalize a Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) with clear communication channels and stakeholder engagement strategies.
Define institutional responsibilities and technical assistance needs for the implementation of the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP).
Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

Advanced university degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Agriculture, Environmental Engineering, or related fields.
Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in developing and implementing ESMFs, ESMPs, environmental and social assessments, and safeguard reporting.
Working knowledge of English (Level C).
Zimbabwean nationality.

Core Competencies

Results-oriented and committed to accountability.
Excellent teamwork and interpersonal skills.
Strong communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
Willingness to share knowledge and promote continuous improvement.

Technical/Functional Skills

Proven expertise in Environmental and Social Safeguard systems, including ESMF, ESMP, and ESIA.
Familiarity with AfDB safeguard policies and FAO’s environmental procedures is a strong asset.
Strong planning, coordination, and organizational skills.
Capacity to work under pressure and manage diverse stakeholder interests.
Fluency in local languages (Shona or Ndebele) is a plus.
Previous work experience with the UN, especially FAO, is highly desirable.

Application Process

To apply:

Visit the FAO Careers Portal.
Create or update your online profile with detailed employment history, academic credentials, and language proficiency.
Attach a motivation letter to your application.
Submit your application before the deadline: 18 June 2025, 11:59 PM.

Important:

Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
FAO only recognizes academic qualifications from institutions listed in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).
FAO is a non-smoking environment.

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