The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has announced an exciting opportunity for qualified candidates to join its headquarters in Rome, Italy, as an Office Assistant (G-3) within the Fisheries and Aquaculture Division. This vacancy, issued under a Call for Expressions of Interest, is ideal for professionals with solid administrative skills who are seeking to contribute to global food security, sustainable development, and environmental stewardship while working in a truly international environment.
FAO is one of the world’s leading specialized agencies of the United Nations, dedicated to achieving food security for all and ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. Through its work, FAO supports the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by promoting agrifood systems that are more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, contributing to better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life for all.
About the Position
The Office Assistant position is a General Service (G-3) staff role, based at FAO Headquarters in Rome, Italy. The appointment is for one year, with the possibility of extension depending on performance and organizational needs. As a General Service role, recruitment is conducted locally, meaning candidates must be nationals of Italy or hold a valid residence and work permit and live within commuting distance of the duty station.
The post is located within the Assessment and Management Team (NFIFM) of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Division (NFI), specifically supporting the EAF-Nansen Programme. This long-term programme focuses on strengthening sustainable fisheries management and ocean governance in partner countries, particularly across Africa and the Bay of Bengal, through the application of the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (EAF).
Organizational Context
The Fisheries and Aquaculture Division plays a central role in FAO’s mandate by addressing the economic, social, governance, and environmental dimensions of fisheries and aquaculture. Its work supports food security, poverty reduction, biodiversity conservation, and the sustainable use of aquatic resources.
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Within this framework, the EAF-Nansen Programme supports 27 African countries and five countries in the Bay of Bengal, providing scientific advice, capacity development, and policy support to improve fisheries management. The Office Assistant will contribute to the smooth daily operations of this high-impact programme, ensuring that administrative and logistical processes function efficiently.
Main Purpose of the Role
The Office Assistant provides essential administrative and office support services, contributing to the effective functioning of the work unit. This role is critical in maintaining organized workflows, facilitating communication, and supporting programme staff in delivering results.
Working under the guidance of the Senior Programme Coordinator, assigned officers, and the Programme Assistant, the Office Assistant operates independently on routine matters while seeking guidance on more complex issues. The position offers valuable exposure to FAO’s systems, procedures, and international work culture.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The Office Assistant performs a wide range of routine yet vital tasks, including:
- Typing, formatting, and drafting routine correspondence, reports, tables, presentations, and publications
- Receiving and directing telephone calls and visitors, managing emails, and responding to routine inquiries
- Entering, retrieving, structuring, and updating data from various sources and presenting it in standard formats
- Maintaining office files and reference systems, including electronic signature books
- Initiating, monitoring, and tracking administrative transactions in FAO’s financial, travel, and human resources systems
- Supporting the organization of meetings, workshops, and events, including arranging meeting rooms and facilities
- Assisting with travel arrangements such as transport, accommodation, logistics, and documentation
- Ensuring the availability of office supplies and proper maintenance of office equipment
- Performing other related duties as required
Through these tasks, the Office Assistant plays a key role in ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and continuity within the team.
Impact and Working Relationships
As part of an administrative support team, the Office Assistant’s work directly affects the effectiveness of the immediate work unit and contributes to the broader objectives of the Division. The role involves regular interaction with colleagues within the unit, focusing on information exchange and the delivery of standard office support services.
Required Qualifications and Skills
To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Education: Completion of secondary school education
- Experience: At least two years of relevant experience in office support or administrative work
- Languages: Working knowledge (proficiency level C) of English
- IT Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, internet use, and office technology equipment
- Residency: Must be eligible for local recruitment in Italy and reside within commuting distance of Rome
In addition, candidates will be assessed against FAO’s core competencies, including results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.
Desirable Qualifications
While not mandatory, the following qualifications are considered an advantage:
- Intermediate knowledge (level B) of French
- Experience in organizing travel and supporting large international meetings, workshops, and training events
- Familiarity with FAO’s internal procedures, including document clearance processes and FAOSTYLE formatting
FAO Values and Work Environment
FAO is strongly committed to diversity, integrity, and professional conduct. Qualified female candidates, nationals of under-represented Member States, and persons with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply. All staff members are expected to uphold FAO’s values of commitment, respect for all, integrity, and transparency.
FAO also maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment, abuse of authority, discrimination, and any conduct incompatible with its mandate. The organization is a non-smoking environment and emphasizes environmental sustainability across all operations.
Remuneration and Benefits
FAO offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, aligned with United Nations standards for General Service staff. As this is a locally recruited position, no international benefits apply, and salary is paid in the local currency.
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Why Apply?
This Office Assistant role offers a unique opportunity to:
- Work at FAO headquarters in Rome within a global UN organization
- Gain hands-on experience supporting international fisheries and sustainability programmes
- Develop professional skills in a multicultural and mission-driven environment
- Contribute directly to global efforts in food security, environmental protection, and sustainable development
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply well before the deadline of 23 January 2026. Applications must be submitted online through the FAO recruitment portal, with all required information and supporting documents completed in full. Only applications received through the official system will be considered.
