Organizational Setting
FAO Azerbaijan Partnership and Liaison Office, in close cooperation with the government and its in-line Ministries/Agencies, contributes to the sustainable agri-food systems, and supports the government with addressing issues food security, agriculture and rural development, natural resource management in the country. FAO’s technical assistance, provided mainly through projects, includes institution building, development of knowledge and competencies, and exchange of experience among FAO member countries.
Reporting Lines
Under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative in Azerbaijan, the programmatic guidance and direct supervision of the Assistant FAO Representative, and the technical guidance of the Lead Technical Officer (LTO), the National Specialist on Soil Surveys will coordinate closely with the National project Coordinator, project team (national and international consultants). The incumbent will be responsible for delivering the following activities.
Technical Focus
The National Seed Specialist will provide key support in the development and implementation of seed quality systems, accreditation processes, and variety registration in collaboration with international consultants. Facilitate coordination among stakeholders, lead the establishment of a management structure for the Central Laboratory, and oversee training on seed preparation, handling, and quality control for farmers and producers.
Tasks and responsibilities
• Work closely with International Consultant on Seed Quality Systems and International Consultant on Variety Registration and Release to provide the necessary support at the local level to the process of membership to ISTA and accreditation process
• Collaborate with national and international seed consultants
• Lead the development of effective management structure for the Central Laboratory and establishment of quality control procedures and seed certification
• Prepare the training materials and carry out the trainings on seed preparation, handling, storage and seed quality control for for individual producers and farmer’s associations
• Support the project team iin preparation of training and workshop programs, materials and implementation of the workshops in Central and regional seed laboratories
• Prepare a brief end-of-assignment report summarizing work performed and recommendations for future activities
CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING
Minimum Requirements
• Advanced University degree in agronomy or seed technology
• Minimum 10 years of experience in soil surveys, soil classification and soil mapping
• Working knowledge (level C) of English
• National of Azerbaijan or resident of the country with valid work permit
FAO Core Competencies
• Results Focus
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Building Effective Relationships
• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
Technical/Functional Skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and partners developing effective working relationships
• Experience with UN system is considered an asset