The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) continues to play a leading role in shaping sustainable, resilient, and inclusive agrifood systems worldwide. As climate change increasingly threatens food security, rural livelihoods, and natural resources, FAO is strengthening its technical capacity to support countries in adapting agriculture to climate risks while improving productivity and sustainability.
One such opportunity is the Call for Expressions of Interest for a Specialist in Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) and Disaster Risk Management (DRM) in Agriculture, a home-based consultancy hosted by FAO’s Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia (REU).
This role is designed for experienced agricultural and climate professionals who are passionate about translating climate-smart concepts into practical, field-level solutions that benefit farmers, institutions, and national systems.
FAO’s Mission and the Regional Context
FAO’s commitment to environmental sustainability is deeply embedded in its strategic objectives and daily operations. Through its Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia (REU), FAO leads and coordinates responses to regional priorities in food security, agriculture, and rural development. The REU works closely with governments, development partners, and local stakeholders to design and implement programmes that address climate risks, promote sustainable land management, and strengthen agrifood value chains.
In Moldova, FAO is a strategic partner to the Government in advancing sustainable agrifood development. The consultancy is linked to the project “Strengthening Competitiveness and Resilience to Climate Risks of Moldovan Smallholder Farmers”, implemented under the joint FAO–UNDP Programme Resilient and Competitive Markets and funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). This initiative marks a shift from short-term emergency responses toward long-term resilience building, with a strong emphasis on climate-smart and conservation agriculture practices.
Purpose of the Consultancy
The Specialist in Climate-Smart Agriculture and Disaster Risk Management in Agriculture will play a pivotal role in strengthening the practical application, scaling-up, and institutional integration of CSA, Conservation Agriculture (CA), and Sustainable Agricultural Land Management (SALM) in Moldova. The consultancy focuses on bridging policy, institutions, and field implementation to ensure that climate-resilient practices are not only piloted, but embedded within national systems and widely adopted by farmers.
Working under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative in Moldova and the technical guidance of agricultural and climate change officers at REU, the incumbent will collaborate closely with project teams, national counterparts, extension services, farmer organizations, and other key stakeholders.
Key Technical Focus Areas
At the heart of this consultancy is the transformation of agricultural systems to better withstand climate shocks while improving productivity and sustainability. The specialist will contribute technical expertise in areas such as:
- Climate-Smart Agriculture, Conservation Agriculture, and SALM practices
- Soil health management, crop diversification, and water-use efficiency
- Climate-resilient production systems for smallholders and commercial farms
- Integration of disaster risk reduction, climate information, and early warning systems into agricultural advisory services
A strong emphasis is placed on hands-on field implementation, particularly through the establishment and monitoring of CSA/CA demonstration plots and pilot interventions adapted to Moldova’s agro-ecological conditions.
Responsibilities and Expected Contributions
The scope of work for this consultancy is comprehensive and impactful. Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting assessments of institutional capacities and operational gaps related to CSA, CA, SALM, and DRM within ministries, extension services, local authorities, and farmers’ organizations.
- Providing technical advice for integrating climate-resilient agriculture into national and local policies, strategies, and subsidy schemes.
- Leading the design, establishment, and monitoring of CSA/CA demonstration plots and farmer-led trials comparing conservation and conventional practices.
- Supporting soil health restoration through practices such as minimum soil disturbance, permanent soil cover, diversified crop rotations, and integrated soil fertility management.
- Designing and operationalizing a national Farmer Field School (FFS) approach focused on CSA/CA and SALM, including training curricula, facilitation guidelines, and seasonal learning pathways.
- Training and mentoring extension agents, FFS facilitators, lead farmers, and advisory service providers using participatory and adult-learning approaches.
- Supporting the institutionalization of FFS and CSA advisory services within national extension systems to ensure sustainability and quality assurance.
- Contributing to analytical studies, value chain analyses, economic impact assessments, and awareness-raising materials related to climate-resilient agriculture and disaster risk reduction.
Through these tasks, the specialist will directly support farmers’ resilience, institutional capacity building, and evidence-based policy development.
Required Profile and Competencies
FAO is seeking candidates with a strong academic and professional background in agriculture and climate-related fields. The minimum requirements include:
- An advanced university degree in agriculture, agronomy, climate change, horticulture, or a related field (a bachelor’s degree requires additional years of experience).
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- At least five years of relevant professional experience in agronomy, climate change, crop production and protection, or seed systems.
- Working knowledge of one of FAO’s official languages, including English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian.
Candidates will also be assessed against FAO’s core competencies, such as results focus, teamwork, communication, relationship building, and knowledge sharing. Experience in project management, climate risk management tools, early warning systems, and sustainable crop production will be considered strong assets.
FAO Values and Commitment to Diversity
FAO is firmly committed to integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity. The Organization encourages applications from qualified women, nationals of under- and non-represented member countries, and persons with disabilities. All selected candidates undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and FAO maintains a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, discrimination, and abuse of authority.
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Why This Opportunity Matters
This consultancy offers more than a technical assignment—it is a chance to contribute to systemic change in agriculture at a time when climate risks are intensifying. By supporting farmers, institutions, and policymakers in adopting climate-smart and disaster-resilient practices, the Specialist will help build sustainable livelihoods, protect natural resources, and strengthen food security in Moldova and beyond.
With a home-based modality, a duration of up to 11 months, and engagement at both strategic and field levels, this role is ideal for experienced professionals seeking meaningful impact within the United Nations system..
