Digital Specialist (AgriTech Observatory)

Organizational Setting

The Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia (REU) is responsible for leading FAO’s response to regional priorities for food security, agriculture and rural development through the identification, planning and implementation of FAO’s priority activities in the region. It ensures a multidisciplinary approach to programmes, identifies priority areas of action for the Organization in the Region and, in collaboration with departments and divisions at Headquarters, develops, promotes and oversees FAO's strategic response to regional priorities.

In response to the growing demand for seizing the opportunities brought by digital technologies, FAO REU established its specialised team for Digital Agriculture in 2020. With a mission to catalyze the digital transformation of agriculture across Europe and Central Asia, the team provides critical capabilities to country offices, technical units, and Members, while leading the implementation of key corporate initiatives, such as the FAO Digital Villages and the AgriTech Observatory. The AgriTech Observatory is the first virtual space to navigate digital agriculture developments in Europe and Central Asia, serving as a knowledge platform to monitor the evolving landscape, identify innovative solutions, and scale up best practices. Released in February 2024, it is moving from pilot to scale-up to expand its database and technology stack.

The preferred location for the assignment is Budapest, Hungary, with hybrid presence at the office. Home-base in a suitable time zone can be considered. The position offers a consultancy contract for an initial 6-month trial period, with the possibility of extension to 11 months contingent upon performance. A break from duty of at least 30 consecutive days is mandatory within any twelve-month period after which the contract is renewable upon satisfactory performance and funds availability.

Reporting Lines

The Digital Specialist (AgriTech Observatory) will work under the overall supervision of the Regional Programme Leader and the direct supervision of the Head of Digital Agriculture.

Technical Focus

The incumbent will contribute to the implementation of FAO’s Strategic Framework linked mainly to Digital Agriculture (BP5): “Provision of analytical and technical support for conducting research and assessments, studies, formulating strategies, programmes, and supporting projects for the digitalization of food and agriculture and rural areas.” Specifically, the incumbent will contribute to research and analysis, and the overall management and scale-up of the AgriTech Observatory.

Tasks And Responsibilities

• Conduct research and analysis on digital solutions, policies, projects and regional initiatives for inclusion in the Observatory, in line with its methodology and quality standards.
• Coordinate the collection, validation and curation of the Observatory database, ensuring accuracy, consistency and regular updates.
• Develop high-quality knowledge products and analytical outputs (e.g., AgriTech Observer series, technical articles, infographics, country insights) based on Observatory data and evidence.
• Promote the Observatory and its outputs through digital channels, events and targeted outreach to expand visibility, engagement and uptake.
• Act as business owner of the Observatory platform, working with the Technical Product Manager and development team to guide improvements and optimize user experience.
• Review external submissions, maintain and update the dataset to ensure content is up-to-date and accurate, and continuously enhance taxonomy and definitions.
• Oversee the platform’s daily operations to ensure timely achievement of targets.
• Liaise with stakeholders and partners and represent the AgriTech Observatory in meetings and events to promote insights.
• Facilitate resource mobilization by drafting concept notes and project proposals, developing donor relationships and partnerships with academic institutions and sector leaders.
• Provide support to other digital agriculture initiatives and projects.
• Any other relevant duties related to the assignment.

FAO Standards And Guidelines

• Liaison with OCC to ensure compliance with OCC standards, aligned messaging, and appropriate review and clearance processes.
• All communication materials follow FAO clearance processes and comply with FAO standards.
• Further guidance regarding FAO communications, policies and procedures can be found through the FAO intranet (OCC section).

Candidates Will Be Assessed Against the Following

Minimum Requirements

• Advanced university degree in Agricultural Science, Economics, Environmental Science, Data Science, or related field from an institution recognized by IAU/UNESCO. Consultants with a bachelor’s degree require two additional years of relevant professional experience.
• At least 3 years of relevant experience in information management, digital agriculture, agriculture projects, research, data analysis, or related fields.
• Working knowledge of English (Proficient, Level C).

FAO Core Competencies

• Results Focus
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Building Effective Relationships
• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

• Experience in digital agriculture and agriculture projects.
• Experience in research and data analysis; familiarity with databases and data visualization tools is desirable.
• Familiarity with emerging technologies in digital agriculture (e.g., precision agriculture, remote sensing, IoT, AI).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; advanced Excel for data management and analysis; experience with Power Automate and SharePoint workflows is a plus.

Selection Criteria

• PhD is considered a strong asset.
• Proficiency in Russian is a strong asset.

Other

Closure Date: 18 Apr 2026, 12:59:00 AM. Primary Location: Various Locations. Duration: Up to 11 months with possibility of renewal. Type of Requisition: Consultant. Job Type: Non-staff opportunities.

Important notices: FAO is committed to workforce diversity; qualified female applicants and candidates from under-represented groups are encouraged to apply. All selected candidates will undergo reference and background checks. All applications will be treated confidentially.