Investigation Specialist

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please note that Closure Date and Time displayed above are based on date and time settings of your personal device

• FAO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background and culture.
• Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non-and under-represented Members and person with disabilities are encouraged to apply;
• Everyone who works for FAO is required to adhere to the highest standards of integrity and professional conduct, and to uphold FAO's values
• FAO, as a Specialized Agency of the United Nations, has a zero-tolerance policy for conduct that is incompatible with its status, objectives and mandate, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination
• All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks
• All applications will be treated with the strictest confidentiality

Organizational Setting

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the Agenda through the FAO Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to MORE efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable agri-food systems, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind. The Office of the Inspector-General (OIG) provides oversight of FAO's programmes and operations through internal audit and investigations. The Investigations Branch (OIGI) investigates allegations of misconduct involving FAO personnel and allegations of sanctionable actions involving third parties. OIG's investigation mandate covers misconduct such as fraud, corruption, abuse of privileges and immunities; sexual exploitation and abuse; sexual harassment; workplace harassment and abuse of authority; retaliation against whistle blowers; or any other conduct not in conformity with the Standards of Conduct of the International Civil Service. OIG also prepares reports to the Director-General and Senior Management on lessons learned and proactive integrity reviews and promotes policies and activities that enhance the integrity of FAO's operations.

The post is located in the Investigations Branch (OIGI) of the Office of the Inspector-General (OIG) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.

Reporting Lines

The Digital Forensics Officer reports to a Senior Investigator (Head of Unit), OIG.

Technical Focus

Digital forensic support to OIG's investigations into allegations of misconduct involving FAO personnel and third parties, and advice on the enhancements of integrity policies of the Organization.

Tasks and responsibilities

The specific tasks and responsibilities of each selected incumbent will be defined in the Terms of Reference (TOR) for the corresponding assignment.

• Provides digital forensic investigative support to OIG investigations, including during the intake analysis of incoming complaints, as well as the preliminary review and investigation process.
• Identifies, collects, analyses and preserves electronic evidence and data (including data from open source and available in FAO corporate databases), in accordance with applicable standards and protocols for evidentiary material.
• Performs digital forensic analysis using validated techniques, methods and tools, including the verification of open-source digital content.
• Assists in understanding the results of digital forensic examination, and in determining the credibility and reliability of electronic evidence and data.
• Prepares detailed, clear and concise forensic analysis reports and other written outputs through accurate, reliable and thorough documenting of methods, tools and activities.
• Ensures that digital forensic investigation activities are targeted and relevant to the investigative scope in each specific case at stake.
• Supports investigative personnel with data visualization and presentation, particularly for complex cases,
• Participates in the organization and follow-up of interviews and other consultations as required, in particular concerning lines of questioning regarding electronic evidence and data.
• Provides support to various policy-related initiatives, internal guidelines and other matters under review by the Office concerning digital forensics and information technology.
• Maintains proficiency with digital forensic tools and keeps a technological watch over available tools and new trends that may be relevant to the work of the Office.
• Prepares and delivers tailored training sessions for OIG personnel on topics relating to digital forensic investigations and information technology.
• Maintains OIG records and stores materials related to the investigations in accordance with internal procedures.
• Performs other duties as required.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

• Advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in digital forensics, computer science, information technology, criminal and forensics sciences,
or a related field. Relevant professional certification in the field of computer forensics. Candidates with bachelor's degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience.
• A minimum of 2 years of progressively responsible experience in digital forensics, investigations and evidence
handling, e-discovery processes and data analysis.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the latest digital forensic techniques (acquisition and analysis), digital forensic tools,
• methodologies, and protocols.
• Working knowledge of English and knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French,
Russian or Spanish) is considered an asset.
• For PSA.SBS working knowledge of English is sufficient.

FAO Core Competencies

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

Technical/Functional Skills

• Demonstrated knowledge in computer science and information technology applied to investigations and/or to the oversight function, including digital forensic tools (e.g. Encase Forensic, Magnet Axiom, Intella), methodologies, and protocols.
• Extent and relevance of experience in carrying out digital forensics activities, including eDiscovery, in the conduct of fact-finding/investigatory work. • Demonstrated experience in internal administrative investigations, including but not limited to fraud, corruption and sexual misconduct, is desirable, preferably gained in an international setting.
• Knowledge and understanding of principles, concepts and processes relevant to administrative and/or criminal investigations.
• Ability to analyse large volume of complex and conflicting evidence.
• Strong English writing skills to prepare clear and concise technical outputs and other relevant documents to be incorporated into investigative files and submissions.
• Work experience in more than one location or area of work, particularly in field positions, is desirable.
• Work experience in an international setting is desirable.
• Experience in developing and executing scripts using PowerShell, Python or other programming languages would be an advantage.

Please note that all candidates should adhere to FAO Values of Commitment to FAO, Respect for All and Integrity and Transparency

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, processing)
• Please note that FAO will only consider academic credentials or degrees obtained from an educational institution recognized in the IAU/UNESCO list
• Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at
• For more information, visit the FAO employment website
• Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.