The FAO Evaluation Specialist opportunity offers experienced professionals a chance to contribute to global development by supporting evidence-based decision-making in food security, agriculture, and sustainability. Designed for specialists in evaluation, research, and policy, this home-based consultancy with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) allows you to work on high-impact international projects while advancing your career in the development sector.
About the Program
The FAO Evaluation Specialist role is part of a roster established by the FAO Office of Evaluation (OED) to support its Rolling Evaluation Workplan for 2026–2029. This workplan includes more than 200 evaluations across global, regional, and country levels, covering key areas such as agriculture, climate change, food systems, and rural development.
Selected professionals will join a pool of experts who may be engaged on a short-term basis for assignments lasting up to 11 months. These assignments may involve leading evaluations, managing projects, or providing technical and analytical support. The role is primarily home-based, with potential fieldwork depending on project needs.
FAO, a specialized agency of the United Nations, operates in over 130 countries and plays a central role in addressing global hunger and promoting sustainable agriculture. Through its evaluation work, the organization ensures accountability, improves program effectiveness, and strengthens global development outcomes.
Why This Opportunity Matters
In today’s complex global landscape, evidence-based policymaking is essential to tackling issues such as food insecurity, climate change, and inequality. This opportunity enables professionals to directly contribute to shaping international development strategies and improving the impact of large-scale programs.
By joining FAO’s evaluation roster, you become part of a global effort to generate credible insights that inform decision-making at the highest levels. The role also provides exposure to United Nations systems, international stakeholders, and multidisciplinary projects, making it particularly valuable for those seeking to deepen their expertise in global development and evaluation.
What Participants Will Gain
Participants selected for the FAO Evaluation Specialist roster will gain valuable professional and personal benefits. They will have the opportunity to work on high-level international evaluations, contributing to impactful global initiatives while enhancing their technical and analytical skills.
They will also strengthen their expertise in data analysis, research methodologies, and evaluation design, while collaborating with diverse stakeholders including governments, donors, and development partners. Additionally, the role offers flexibility through remote work arrangements, allowing professionals to engage in meaningful work without geographic constraints.
Importantly, this experience provides strong career advancement opportunities within international organizations, consulting, and policy advisory roles, particularly within the United Nations system and related institutions.
Who Can Apply
This opportunity is open to professionals with a strong background in evaluation, research, or related fields. Applicants should typically hold an advanced university degree in areas such as economics, public policy, statistics, data science, sociology, or related disciplines.
For consultant roles, at least five years of relevant professional experience is required, while PSA applicants should have a minimum of three years of experience. Candidates must also demonstrate strong analytical skills, experience with quantitative and/or qualitative research methods, and the ability to produce clear, evidence-based findings.
A working knowledge of English is required, along with limited proficiency in another FAO official language such as French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian.
Eligible Areas
This is a global opportunity open to applicants worldwide. The position is primarily home-based, making it accessible to professionals regardless of location, although some assignments may involve fieldwork depending on project requirements.
Application Process and Deadline
Interested candidates must apply through the official FAO recruitment portal by completing an online profile and submitting their application, including a letter of motivation. Applicants are encouraged to ensure their profiles are complete and include detailed information on academic qualifications, professional experience, and language skills.
Applications for this opportunity close on 29 April 2026. Due to the competitive nature of FAO roles, early submission is strongly recommended.
It is important to note that being selected for the roster does not guarantee immediate assignment, but it provides access to future consultancy opportunities within FAO’s evaluation projects over the 2026–2029 period.
Apply on the official FAO job portal.
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