Animal Health Officer (Staff position – P‑4) – Rome, Italy

FAO, a specialized agency of the United Nations, is looking for an experienced professional to support the planning, development and implementation of programmes and projects in the Animal Production and Health Division (NSA). The position is a one‑year fixed‑term appointment, renewable on the basis of performance and funding availability.

Overview

The Animal Health Officer will design and conduct risk monitoring and early warning activities for emergent transboundary animal and zoonotic diseases. The role involves analysis of surveillance data, coordination of communication and technical support to FAO Member States, and collaboration with international partners such as the World Organisation for Animal Health, WHO, and regional bodies.

Key Responsibilities

- Plan and lead multidisciplinary teams; contribute to cross‑divisional committees, project teams and working groups.
- Develop technical, analytical and monitoring frameworks, tools and databases to support planning, implementation, delivery and monitoring of programmes.
- Design and conduct research, data collection, validation, analysis and reporting; support the development of technical standards and policy proposals.
- Provide technical advice and capacity‑building support to member countries and field projects.
- Coordinate risk communication and early warning products, including situation reports, alerts and web‑based updates.
- Assist in the coordination of confirmatory diagnosis, rapid analysis and transport of diagnostic specimens under international regulations.




- Develop standard operating procedures for outbreak surge support and emergency stockpile deployment.
- Provide infectious substances shipping training to decentralised offices and liaise with WHO and IATA on regulatory requirements.
- Contribute to procurement quality by serving as a technical competent officer or supporting others in this role.
- Coordinate multi‑partner advisory groups on diseases such as Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia and zoonotic influenza.
- Design and implement EMPRES‑AH programmes, including field project recruitment, supervision and resource mobilization.
- Assist in planning, monitoring and year‑end reporting using FAO Programme Planning, Implementation Reporting and Evaluation System (PIRES).

Qualifications

- Advanced university degree (Master’s level or equivalent) in veterinary science/medicine, epidemiology or a related discipline.
- Minimum seven years of relevant experience in disease surveillance programmes and outbreak analysis for livestock species.
- Proficiency in English (C level) and intermediate knowledge of one other FAO official language.
- Experience in disease mapping and GIS or decision support systems for epidemic control (required).




- Experience coordinating joint activities with agencies such as WOAH and WHO.
- Knowledge of UN Model Regulations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods and related regulatory frameworks.
- Experience in FAO Programme Planning and Evaluation methodologies.
- Experience working in multiple countries and regions, especially in developing states.
- Strong communication skills for diverse audiences and partners.
- Ability to mobilise resources (asset).

Competencies

- Results Focus – drive tangible outcomes.
- Teamwork – collaborate effectively across divisions.
- Communication – articulate clearly to multiple stakeholders.
- Building Effective Relationships – sustain productive partnerships.
- Knowledge Sharing – promote continuous learning.
- Technical/Functional Skills – apply advanced analytical tools and methodologies.

EEO Statement

FAO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background and culture. Qualified female applicants, nationalities from non‑and under‑represented members and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. All personnel are required to adhere to FAO values and a zero‑tolerance policy for discrimination.

Conditions of Service and Benefits

A competitive compensation and benefits package is offered, including dependent allowances, housing subsidies, education grant for children, annual leave, pension contributions and international health insurance. Additional benefits are subject to eligibility and confidentiality regulations.

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📌 Animal Health Officer at Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (Roma)
🏢 Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
📍 Roma