FAO Finance and Operations Assistant Job 2026 – UN Climate Project Career Opportunity – Apply Before 14 May 2026
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If you’re looking to build a meaningful career in international development while strengthening your finance and operations expertise, this opportunity with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) could be the perfect next step. The organization is currently hiring a Finance and Operations Assistant based in Kingston, Jamaica, offering a 12-month contract under a nationally recruited project position.
This role sits within a transformative climate resilience initiative known as the ADAPT Jamaica Project, funded by the Green Climate Fund. It presents a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable agriculture while gaining hands-on experience in financial management, procurement, and project operations within a globally respected UN agency.
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About FAO and the ADAPT Jamaica Project
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) plays a central role in achieving the global 2030 Agenda by promoting sustainable agrifood systems. Its mission focuses on improving food security, nutrition, and agricultural productivity while ensuring environmental sustainability.
In Jamaica, FAO is partnering with the government and key stakeholders to implement the ADAPT Jamaica Project, a climate resilience initiative designed to support vulnerable smallholder farmers. The project focuses on:
- Strengthening climate-resilient agricultural production
- Supporting adaptation strategies for smallholder farmers
- Enhancing early warning and climate information systems
- Mobilizing financing and policy support for agricultural sustainability
This initiative is implemented in collaboration with the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) and national institutions, making it a highly collaborative and impactful programme.
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Role Overview: Finance and Operations Assistant
The Finance and Operations Assistant will play a vital role in ensuring the smooth execution of project activities. Working under the supervision of the Project Manager and in coordination with FAO administrative and technical teams, the selected candidate will provide integrated financial and operational support.
This role is ideal for professionals who are detail-oriented, organized, and passionate about development work, especially within agriculture and climate resilience.
Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will be responsible for a wide range of financial and operational tasks, including:
- Monitoring project budgets and tracking expenditures
- Preparing financial forecasts and reports in line with FAO and donor requirements
- Processing payments, reimbursements, and advances
- Maintaining accurate financial records in FAO systems such as FPMIS and GRMS
- Supporting procurement processes and tracking supplier deliveries
- Managing contracts, including Letters of Agreement and consultant agreements
- Assisting in the implementation of grant programmes and cash transfers
- Maintaining asset registers and documentation
- Tracking project progress and identifying risks or delays
- Supporting audits, evaluations, and donor reporting
You will also liaise closely with internal FAO units and external partners to ensure compliance with procedures and timely delivery of project outputs.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- A university degree or technical training in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field
- At least three years of relevant experience in financial and administrative support
- Strong working knowledge of English (written and spoken)
- Must be a national of Jamaica
Core Competencies
FAO is looking for candidates who demonstrate the following competencies:
- Results focus
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Building effective relationships
- Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement
Technical Skills and Experience
Successful candidates will bring:
- Solid knowledge of budgeting, procurement, and financial reporting
- Experience in managing contracts and monitoring expenditures
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (especially Excel, Word, and Outlook)
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure
- Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder coordination skills
Experience working with international organizations or donor-funded projects, especially within the UN system, is considered a strong advantage.
Why You Should Apply
Working with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) offers more than just a job—it’s a chance to contribute to global development goals while growing your professional skills.
Top benefits of this role include:
- Gain experience working on a major climate resilience project
- Strengthen your financial management and reporting skills
- Collaborate with international experts and national institutions
- Build a career within the United Nations system
- Contribute to sustainable agriculture and climate adaptation
Diversity, Inclusion, and Integrity
FAO is deeply committed to diversity and inclusion. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, and persons with disabilities.
It also maintains a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct, including harassment, discrimination, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates undergo thorough background checks to ensure the highest standards of integrity.
Application Deadline and Important Notes
- Application Deadline: 14 May 2026 (11:59 PM)
- Job Type: Non-staff (National Project Personnel)
- Contract Duration: 12 months
- Location: Kingston, Jamaica
FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit complete applications well before the deadline.
How to Apply
To apply for this position:
- Visit the FAO careers portal
- Create or update your online profile
- Ensure all details (education, experience, language skills) are accurate
- Attach a motivation letter
- Submit your application before the deadline
Only applications submitted through the official FAO recruitment system will be considered.
Final Thoughts
The Finance and Operations Assistant role with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is an excellent opportunity for professionals looking to make a real impact in climate resilience and sustainable agriculture.
With a strong focus on financial accountability, operational excellence, and collaborative project delivery, this position offers both professional growth and the chance to contribute to meaningful global change.
If you meet the qualifications and are ready to take your career to the next level, do not miss this opportunity. Apply before 14 May 2026 and become part of a mission that is transforming lives and communities in Jamaica and beyond.
