FAOUnknownEnvironment & Climate

Preparation Guide

Specialist in Sustainable Cities, Green Infrastructure and Urban Food Systems — FAO

Deadline is today!

Expected Timeline

Based on the position grade (unknown), contract type (Personnel Services Agreement), and FAO's typical recruitment process.

Apply0d left
Screening2-4 weeks
Assessment2-4 weeks
References1-2 weeks
Offer2-4 weeks
Apply
0d left
Screening
2-4 weeks
Assessment
2-4 weeks
References
1-2 weeks
Offer
2-4 weeks
Estimated total process: 2-4 months

Note: UN recruitment timelines vary significantly. Some positions may take longer due to roster reviews, budget approvals, or geographic representation considerations.

Assessment Predictor

Based on the grade level, contract type, and position profile, expect the following evaluations:

Written TestCompetency-Based InterviewTechnical InterviewPresentation / Case StudyLanguage Assessment
Competency-Based Interview (CBI)

The UN uses the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare 2-3 concrete examples for each competency listed below. Focus on recent professional experiences (last 5 years).

Presentation / Case Study

Senior positions often require a presentation on a relevant topic or a case study analysis. Prepare a 10-15 minute presentation with clear structure: context → analysis → recommendations.

Competency Breakdown

These competencies were extracted from the vacancy announcement. Prepare STAR-format examples for each.

CoreCommunication
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a time when you had to convey complex technical information to a non-specialist audience. How did you adapt your message and what was the outcome?
CoreTeamwork
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a situation where you worked with colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds to achieve a shared goal. What was your specific contribution?
CoreIntegrity
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you faced pressure to compromise your professional or ethical standards. How did you handle it?
FunctionalResults-Based Management
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a time when you introduced or applied results-based management principles to a programme. How did you define success indicators and use them to course-correct?
FunctionalKnowledge Sharing
STAR Method Prompt:Describe how you ensured lessons learned from a project or initiative were captured and shared so that others could benefit.
FunctionalMonitoring and Evaluation
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a time when you designed or led an M&E framework. How did you choose indicators and use findings to improve programme delivery?
FunctionalCoordination
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a time when you coordinated activities across multiple teams, offices, or organizations with different mandates. How did you keep everyone aligned?

Required Skills & Technical Knowledge

GovernanceDesignMonitoring and EvaluationLogical FrameworkTheory of ChangeNutritionClimate ChangeBiodiversitySustainable DevelopmentInfrastructure and Urban Food SystemsSolutions and Urban Food SystemsSocial DevelopmentEnvironmental EngineeringForestry EngineeringEnvironmental ManagementUrban and Regional PlanningBased ManagementEnvironmentalDonorsBrazilian Public InstitutionsProven experience in multi

Position Profile

Grade—
SeniorityUnknown
Role TypeEnvironment & Climate
ContractPersonnel Services Agreement
EducationMaster's
Experience1-3 years
LanguagesEnglish, Spanish, Portuguese
View full vacancy Apply now

Preparation Checklist

  • Prepare 2-3 STAR stories for each competency (7 total)
  • Research FAO's latest strategic plan and priorities
  • Prepare a concise 2-minute "Tell me about yourself" response
  • Prepare a 10-15 minute presentation on a relevant topic
  • Refresh your Spanish, Portuguese language skills
  • Read recent news and developments about FAO
  • Prepare 3-4 questions to ask the interview panel
  • Review the UN common system values and organizational culture

Pro Tips

  • UN interviews are competency-based — they ask for specific examples, not hypothetical scenarios.
  • Use the STAR method: Situation → Task → Action → Result.
  • Show how your experience aligns with the UN values: integrity, professionalism, respect for diversity.
  • Be specific and quantify your achievements when possible.
  • Mention experience working in multicultural environments — it's highly valued.