Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Specialist

Organizational Setting

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through the FAO Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to MORE efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agrifood systems, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life, leaving no one behind.

FAO is a specialized agency of the UN that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. FAO's goal is to achieve food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 Members (194 countries and the European Union), FAO works in over 130 countries worldwide.

FAO Country Offices, working under overall corporate guidance and in line with the Strategic Framework, offer policy advice and support to countries in the mandated areas of FAO, facilitated through partnerships, resources and an active country programme to provide technical assistance, develop capacities and deliver core services while fully observing international standards of accountability to establish leadership and strengthen impact at the country level. 
The offices deliver on the programmatic priorities of each country as agreed in their respective Country Programming Frameworks (CPFs) aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) and ensure effective and efficient operations with adequate human and financial resources. 
Specifically, FAO Country Offices: 
(i)    advocate, inform and support policies and investments in the areas of FAO’s mandate;
(ii)    provide technical assistance and deliver core services; 
(iii)     assist and catalyse partnership and resource mobilization activities to support agrifood systems transformation; 
(iv)    position FAO as the specialized/authoritative technical agency in food and agriculture and agrifood systems transformation; and 
ensure risk-smart and accountable operations and management.  

In collaboration with key government agencies such as the Papua New Guinea Forest Authority (PNGFA), the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA), and the Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), FAO actively supports sustainable forest management, ecosystem protection, and the advancement of Papua New Guinea's climate change mitigation strategies. These efforts align with the United Nations Development Assistance Framework (2018-2022) and the European Union’s Multi-Annual Indicative Programme (MIP) (2021-2027).

A notable initiative is the Global Environment Facility (GEF)-funded project, which focuses on conserving threatened species and habitats, improving the management of protected areas and high conservation value zones, and fostering sustainable, biodiversity-friendly, climate-resilient livelihoods in the Eastern and Western Highlands Provinces. Meanwhile, the Forestry Climate Change Biodiversity (FCCB) Nexus project enhances the capacity to collect and disseminate critical forest information, creating an accessible platform for stakeholders to engage in sustainable forest management and ensure transparency in climate finance.

The position is located in the FAO Country Office in Papua New Guinea. 

Reporting Lines

The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Specialist will work under the direct supervision of the Chief Technical Advisor. The incumbent will work in close consultation and coordination with International Expert on National Forest Monitoring System (NFMS) and Land Use Plan Decision Support System (DSS), in carrying out his/her tasks and duties.

Technical Focus

The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Specialist will be responsible for ensuring the secure, stable, and functional operation of ICT systems that support REDD , climate change, and land use planning activities implemented through GEF-7, GEF-8, AIM4Forests, and EU-FCCB initiatives.

Tasks and responsibilities

•    Maintain and enhance the demo version of the PNG Carbon Registry Data Management System, including integration with REDD project databases and dashboard functions.
•    Lead cloud migration of the PNG Forest and Land Use Monitoring Geo-Portal, ensuring secure server configuration and system functionality (e.g., GeoNode, PostgreSQL).
•    Operate and support the NFMS/MRV Dashboard (R-Shiny or alternatives), and maintain data systems including PostgreSQL servers and Open Foris tools.
•    Assist in the development and maintenance of interoperable systems linking GHG inventory, carbon transactions, and nesting mechanisms.
•    Support implementation of the Deforestation Alerts System and improve integration with the Safeguard Information System (SIS).
•    Provide system documentation, user manuals, demo videos, and technical specifications for all digital tools and platforms.
•    Manage procurement, configuration, and maintenance of ICT equipment and ensure smooth LAN/WAN and backup operations.
•    Provide user-level support to CEPA, CCDA, PNGFA, and project staff on digital tools, cloud storage systems, and web applications.
•    Support capacity building through user trainings, helpdesk assistance, and preparation of training materials and SOPs.
•    Collaborate closely with the GIS/RS Officer to ensure metadata consistency, system usability, and cross-functional integration of spatial platforms.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements  
  
•    University degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, or another field relevant to FAO’s mandate. 
•    3 years of relevant experience in in ICT system development, database management, or digital platform support, preferably in environmental or development-related projects.
•    Working knowledge of English
•    National of Papua New Guinea 

FAO Core Competencies

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

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION