FAO Agricultural Officer (Seed Specialist) 2026 – Join the UN in Rome for a Global Agriculture Career
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The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is currently recruiting a highly qualified professional for the role of Agricultural Officer (Seed Specialist) at its headquarters in Rome. This international position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable agriculture, food security, and global development while working with one of the leading agencies of the United Nations.
The position is classified at the P-4 professional level, with a two-year fixed-term contract and the possibility of extension depending on performance and funding availability. Applications for this exciting opportunity close on 1 April 2026, making it an excellent chance for experienced professionals in crop science, seed systems, and agricultural development to join a global organization committed to ending hunger.
This role is ideal for individuals passionate about improving seed systems, strengthening crop productivity, and supporting sustainable agrifood systems worldwide.
About FAO and Its Global Mission
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations plays a critical role in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by promoting efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems worldwide.
FAO’s strategic framework focuses on four key priorities:
- Better Production
- Better Nutrition
- Better Environment
- Better Life
Through global initiatives and partnerships with governments, farmers, and development organizations, FAO supports countries in tackling hunger, improving agricultural productivity, and protecting natural resources.
One of the major initiatives under this framework is the One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) programme, which aims to strengthen the value chains of unique agricultural products across participating countries.
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Organizational Setting of the Role
The Agricultural Officer (Seed Specialist) will work within the Plant Production and Protection Division (NSP), which focuses on promoting sustainable crop production systems around the world.
This division helps countries adopt agricultural practices that increase productivity while minimizing environmental impact. Through scientific research, technical expertise, and international collaboration, the division supports policies and innovations that strengthen crop production and protect natural resources.
Within the division, the position is located in the Seeds and Plant Genetic Resources Team (NSPGD). This team works to ensure farmers have timely access to high-quality seeds and planting materials that are productive, resilient, and adapted to local environments.
The team also contributes to safeguarding Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, ensuring that valuable crop varieties are preserved and used to develop improved seeds for future generations.
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Technical Focus of the Position
The Agricultural Officer (Seed Specialist) will focus primarily on seed value chains, which include every stage of seed development and distribution—from genetic conservation to breeding, production, storage, and delivery to farmers.
A key objective of the role is to strengthen seed systems that support Special Agricultural Products (SAPs) under the OCOP initiative. These products are unique to specific countries and often hold strong economic, environmental, or cultural importance.
By improving seed systems and agricultural value chains, FAO aims to enhance the productivity, resilience, and competitiveness of these special crops across different regions.
Key Responsibilities
The selected candidate will perform a wide range of technical, analytical, and advisory duties related to seed systems and sustainable agriculture.
Some of the main responsibilities include:
Leading technical programmes and projects
The Agricultural Officer will coordinate and manage projects focused on strengthening resilient seed value chains, including seed production, processing, storage, and distribution.
Providing technical guidance to countries
The role involves supporting FAO member countries in developing sustainable seed systems and promoting priority agricultural products.
Conducting research and analysis
The officer will design and implement research activities, collect and analyze agricultural data, and develop technical reports and policy recommendations.
Supporting knowledge sharing and capacity development
Another important task is organizing training programmes, workshops, and knowledge-sharing initiatives for governments, organizations, and agricultural stakeholders.
Promoting international cooperation
The Agricultural Officer will participate in global meetings and technical forums to promote best practices in seed systems and sustainable agriculture.
Engaging stakeholders and mobilizing resources
The role also involves collaborating with governments, development partners, private sector actors, and civil society organizations to strengthen investments in seed value chains.
Specific Duties within the OCOP Initiative
A significant portion of the work will focus on supporting the One Country One Priority Product initiative.
The Agricultural Officer will help design and implement projects that enhance seed systems for priority crops and ensure that farmers have access to improved, climate-resilient seed varieties.
Other responsibilities include:
- Facilitating cross-country knowledge exchange on seed innovations
- Promoting digital technologies in crop improvement
- Supporting communication and outreach efforts to highlight FAO’s work
- Monitoring scientific and policy developments related to seed systems
- Contributing to FAO’s work on plant genetic resources and international agricultural policy
Through these efforts, the Agricultural Officer will help improve crop productivity and sustainability across multiple regions.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet several academic and professional criteria.
Applicants should possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as:
- Crop science
- Plant science
- Agriculture
- Agronomy
- Seed science and technology
- Other related agricultural or biological sciences
Candidates must also have at least seven years of professional experience in areas related to seed production, seed value chains, quality assurance, or seed regulatory frameworks.
Language skills are also essential. Applicants must demonstrate working proficiency in English and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish.
Competencies and Skills
FAO seeks professionals who demonstrate strong technical expertise and leadership qualities.
Important competencies include:
- Results orientation and accountability
- Strong teamwork and collaboration skills
- Effective communication abilities
- Relationship building and stakeholder engagement
- Commitment to knowledge sharing and continuous learning
Experience working in multiple countries or in field positions is considered an advantage.
Salary and Benefits
FAO offers a competitive international compensation package aligned with the United Nations common system.
Benefits may include:
- Dependency allowances
- Rental subsidy
- Education grants for children
- Annual home leave travel
- 30 days of annual leave per year
- Pension benefits under the UN Joint Staff Pension Fund
- International health insurance
- Optional life insurance
- Disability protection
The organization also promotes family-friendly policies, flexible work arrangements, and a positive workplace culture that values diversity and inclusion.
FAO’s Commitment to Diversity and Integrity
FAO strongly encourages applications from qualified women, nationals from under-represented countries, and persons with disabilities.
All employees are expected to maintain the highest standards of professional conduct and integrity. FAO enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy against discrimination, harassment, and abuse of authority.
Successful candidates will undergo background verification and reference checks before appointment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply through the official FAO recruitment portal.
Applicants should:
- Create or update their FAO online profile.
- Ensure employment history, education, and language skills are fully completed.
- Upload a motivation letter explaining their interest in the role.
- Submit the application through the FAO recruitment website before the deadline.
FAO only considers applications submitted through its official recruitment system, and incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
Because of the high competition for United Nations jobs, candidates are encouraged to submit their applications well before the closing date.
Final Thoughts
The FAO Agricultural Officer (Seed Specialist) position represents a powerful opportunity for experienced agricultural professionals to contribute to global food security and sustainable crop production.
By strengthening seed systems, improving crop resilience, and supporting farmers worldwide, the successful candidate will play an important role in transforming agrifood systems and advancing sustainable development.
For professionals with expertise in seed science, plant genetics, and agricultural policy, this position in Rome offers a chance to make a lasting global impact while working within the international United Nations system.
