The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has opened an exciting short-term consultancy opportunity for experienced professionals in economics, finance, and climate-related development. Through Vacancy Announcement 2600270, FAO is calling for Expressions of Interest for the position of Technical and Financial Specialist, a home-based assignment under its Subregional Office for Central Asia (SEC).
This role offers a unique chance to contribute to climate finance, sustainable development, and regional cooperation in Central Asia—while working remotely and engaging directly with high-level stakeholders and UN partners.
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About FAO and the Subregional Office for Central Asia
FAO is a specialized UN agency leading global efforts to eradicate hunger, reduce poverty, and sustainably manage natural resources. The FAO Subregional Office for Central Asia (SEC) coordinates FAO’s work across the region, supporting countries in addressing food security, climate change, natural resource management, and sustainable agricultural development.
This consultancy is linked to FAO’s collaboration with the Government of Turkmenistan, particularly the Ministry of Environmental Protection, under the project “Improving the capacity of Turkmenistan to access climate finance through capacity building and strategic frameworks.” The project aligns with national commitments under the Paris Agreement and promotes cross-sectoral collaboration to strengthen access to international climate finance.
Project Background: A Regional Climate Technology Vision
Since 2012, Turkmenistan has championed the establishment of a Regional Climate Change Technology Centre for Central Asia, proposed to be based in Ashgabat. The Centre aims to serve as a regional hub for climate technology transfer, supporting both climate adaptation and mitigation while attracting funding from UN agencies, climate funds, and international partners.
Although the Centre is still in its formative stage, FAO—working alongside UNEP and the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in Turkmenistan—is providing technical assistance to assess feasibility, define governance options, and develop an actionable roadmap. This is where the Technical and Financial Specialist plays a critical role.
Role Overview: Technical and Financial Specialist
The selected specialist will support FAO by delivering in-depth technical, economic, and financial analysis to inform the feasibility study and action plan for the proposed Regional Climate Technology Centre. The focus is on ensuring the Centre’s technical feasibility, economic viability, and long-term financial sustainability.
The assignment is home-based, with a duration of four months, and may include missions to Ashgabat to conduct surveys, interviews, and stakeholder consultations.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
The consultant will be responsible for a wide range of strategic and analytical tasks, including:
- Defining technical requirements for the Centre, covering infrastructure, technology, and human resources
- Estimating setup and operational costs and identifying funding sources and sustainability models
- Conducting cost-benefit and economic viability analyses
- Developing a business plan and detailed action plan with timelines and milestones
- Preparing an implementation roadmap with short- and long-term objectives
- Contributing to market analysis, governance frameworks, and risk mitigation strategies
- Supporting policy development related to financial management and technical oversight
- Preparing presentations, interim reports, and final deliverables
- Participating in missions and stakeholder engagement activities as required
This role is ideal for professionals who enjoy combining analytical rigor with policy-oriented development work.
Required Qualifications and Experience
FAO is seeking candidates with strong academic and professional backgrounds:
- Education
- Advanced university degree in Economics, Finance, or a related field (Consultants)
- University degree in the same fields (PSA holders)
- Degrees must be from institutions recognized by IAU/UNESCO (WHED listed)
- Experience
- Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in technical and financial project analysis
- Languages
- Working knowledge of English is required
- Knowledge of Russian is a strong asset
Selection Criteria and Competencies
Preferred candidates will demonstrate:
- Proven experience in feasibility studies, strategic planning, or institutional assessments
- Background in climate technology, environmental projects, or climate finance
- Familiarity with UN frameworks and climate finance mechanisms such as GCF, CTCN, or GEF
- Strong understanding of Central Asian regional dynamics
- Excellent analytical, research, and stakeholder engagement skills
Candidates will also be assessed against FAO’s core competencies, including results focus, teamwork, communication, relationship building, and knowledge sharing.
FAO’s Commitment to Ethics and Diversity
FAO strongly promotes workforce diversity and encourages applications from qualified women, nationals of under-represented member states, and persons with disabilities. The organization maintains zero tolerance for misconduct, including harassment, discrimination, and abuse of authority. All applicants undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and all applications are handled with strict confidentiality.
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How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply online through FAO’s official recruitment portal. Applicants are required to complete a detailed profile and attach a letter of motivation. Only applications submitted through the FAO system will be considered, and incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
Early submission is strongly encouraged, as the application deadline is 26 February 2026
