FAO National Environmental Specialist (Home-Based) – Green Cities Initiative Opportunity 2026

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is offering an exciting short-term consultancy opportunity for professionals passionate about environmental sustainability and urban development. The position of National Environmental Specialist is part of FAO’s Green Cities Initiative (GCI), a transformative program aimed at building greener, healthier, and more resilient urban environments.

This opportunity is particularly ideal for environmental professionals based in Lesotho who are eager to contribute to sustainable city planning while working in a flexible, home-based setting.

About FAO and the Green Cities Initiative

FAO is a leading United Nations agency dedicated to defeating hunger, improving nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture worldwide. Through its Green Cities Initiative, FAO collaborates with cities across the globe to integrate environmentally sustainable practices into urban systems.

In this specific project, FAO is partnering with the Maseru City Council (MCC) to support the transformation of Maseru into a model green city. The initiative focuses on key areas such as:

• Urban agriculture
• Climate-smart solutions
• Sustainable waste management
• Revitalization of green spaces

The National Environmental Specialist will play a central role in ensuring that these interventions are environmentally sound and aligned with both national and international standards.

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Job Overview

• Position: National Environmental Specialist
• Job ID: 2600649
• Organization: FAO
• Job Type: Non-staff (Personal Services Agreement – PSA)
• Location: Home-Based
• Duration: 50 working days (WAE – When Actually Employed)
• Posting Date: 26 March 2026
• Application Deadline: 09 April 2026

This consultancy offers flexibility while still allowing professionals to contribute meaningfully to impactful environmental work.

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Key Responsibilities

The selected consultant will work under the supervision of FAO leadership in Lesotho and collaborate closely with the Maseru City Council and other stakeholders. The role focuses on strengthening environmental sustainability within urban planning frameworks.

Key responsibilities include:

• Reviewing environmental policies and legal frameworks and recommending improvements
• Conducting Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs)
• Supporting the design of sustainable waste management systems, including composting and bioenergy initiatives
• Developing technical guidelines on environmental safeguards and ecosystem management
• Assisting in the planning and management of green urban spaces
• Establishing monitoring frameworks and environmental indicators
• Delivering training and capacity-building programs for MCC staff and community groups
• Leading awareness campaigns on recycling, biodiversity, and environmental health

This role is both strategic and hands-on, combining policy work with practical implementation support.

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Minimum Requirements:

• Advanced university degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Natural Resources Management, or a related field
• At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in environmental or urban sustainability work
• Strong command of English (C level proficiency)
• Must be a national of Lesotho or hold a valid work permit

Technical Skills:

• Experience in environmental assessments and policy analysis
• Knowledge of environmental safeguards and sustainability frameworks
• Proven ability in training, facilitation, and community engagement
• Familiarity with Lesotho’s environmental policies and urban challenges
• Strong analytical and report-writing skills

Core Competencies

FAO seeks candidates who demonstrate the following competencies:

• Results-oriented mindset
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills
• Effective communication abilities
• Relationship-building capacity
• Commitment to continuous learning and knowledge sharing

These competencies are essential for working in a multicultural and multidisciplinary environment like FAO.

Why This Role Matters

Urbanization is rapidly increasing across Africa, and cities like Maseru face growing environmental challenges, including waste management issues, limited green spaces, and climate vulnerability. This consultancy provides an opportunity to directly influence how cities adapt to these challenges.

By contributing to the Green Cities Initiative, the selected candidate will help:

• Improve urban environmental health
• Promote sustainable livelihoods
• Enhance climate resilience
• Support biodiversity conservation

This is not just a job—it is a chance to contribute to long-term environmental transformation.

FAO’s Commitment to Diversity and Integrity

FAO is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. Applications are strongly encouraged from:

• Women
• Individuals from underrepresented regions
• Persons with disabilities

The organization maintains a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct, including discrimination, harassment, and abuse of authority. All candidates undergo thorough background checks to ensure the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.

Important Application Information

Applicants should take note of the following:

• FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process
• Only complete applications submitted through the official FAO portal will be considered
• Candidates may be required to provide references and verification documents
• Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted

It is highly recommended to prepare a detailed and accurate online profile, including:

• Academic qualifications
• Employment history
• Language proficiency
• Motivation letter

How to Apply

To apply for this opportunity, follow these steps:

1. Visit the official FAO recruitment portal
2. Create or update your online profile
3. Attach a motivation letter
4. Submit your application before the deadline

Early applications are strongly encouraged to avoid last-minute issues.

Final Thoughts

The FAO National Environmental Specialist role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable urban development while working in a flexible, home-based setup. With a strong focus on environmental management, policy alignment, and community engagement, this consultancy is ideal for professionals who want to make a tangible impact.

If you are passionate about environmental sustainability and meet the qualifications, this could be your chance to work with a globally respected organization and help shape the future of urban living in Lesotho.