The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is a specialized agency of the United Nations, headquartered in Rome, Italy. It was established in 1977 with the core mission of investing in rural people to help them increase food production, adapt to climate change, build resilience, and escape poverty. IFAD operates in over 90 countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and beyond, delivering long-term solutions for food security, sustainable agriculture, and rural development.

Are you passionate about creating a world without poverty and hunger? Do you want your career to contribute to sustainable development and global impact? The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is hiring — and this could be your opportunity to join one of the UN’s key agencies dedicated to empowering rural communities around the world.

Current Opportunities at IFAD

As of September, 2025, IFAD has several key positions open for dedicated professionals. These roles offer an opportunity to contribute to impactful international development work and are based in various locations.

IFAD offers a wide range of job opportunities across its headquarters and numerous country offices. Roles are typically categorized into the following groups:

  •  Professional and Director Staff: These positions require a high level of expertise, analytical skills, and management experience. They are often internationally recruited and cover various fields like program management, policy, communications, and finance.
  • General Service Staff: These are locally recruited roles essential for the daily operations of IFAD’s offices. They include administrative assistants, drivers, and other support staff.
  • Consultants: IFAD frequently hires consultants for specific projects and short-term assignments. This is a great option for experienced professionals who can contribute specialized skills.
  • Internship Programme: IFAD’s internship program provides a unique learning experience for students and recent graduates, offering a chance to gain hands-on experience in a development setting

To explore all open jobs at IFAD,Interested candidates can visit the official career portal at ifad.org/en/work-with-us

Application process

Applying for a job at IFAD is a straightforward process, but requires careful attention to detail. Follow these steps to maximize your chances of success:

  • Check the Official Careers Portal: The most reliable place to find all open vacancies is the official IFAD Careers Portal. You can search for jobs by category, location, and key skills.
  • Create a Candidate Profile: You’ll need to create an account on the portal and fill out a comprehensive candidate profile. This profile will serve as your primary application, so ensure all information—including your education, work experience, and language skills—is accurate and up-to-date.
  • Find the Right Fit: Don’t apply for every job you see. Read the job description carefully and ensure your skills and experience align with the requirements. IFAD values candidates who can demonstrate a clear connection between their background and the specific role.
  • Submit Your Application: Once you’ve found a suitable position, you can apply directly through the portal. Some roles may require you to answer specific questions or submit additional documents like a cover letter.
  • Be Prepared for the Hiring Process: The hiring process at IFAD can be lengthy. It typically involves an initial screening, an interview (which may be conducted via video call), and potentially a written assessment. Successful candidates for some roles may also need to undergo a security clearance.