Job Description

About WorldFish

WorldFish is an international research organization working to transform aquatic food systems to reduce hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. It collaborates with international, regional, and national partners to co-develop and deliver scientific innovations, evidence for policy and knowledge to enable equitable and inclusive impact for millions who depend on fish and other aquatic foods for their livelihoods and nutrition. Our work in countries advances progress on multiple 2030 Sustainable Development Goals through science and innovation, with a vision of healthy people, healthy planet and shared prosperity.

About the Project

IkanAdapt is the largest project currently being implemented by WorldFish Timor-Leste, with a team of 12 local and international scientists, support staff and field assistants. Ikan Adapt seeks to use nature-based solutions, working with communities, fishers, and fish farmers to improve climate resilience of fish-based livelihoods and linked food systems. In doing so, project activities will ensure strong biodiversity outcomes, including improved management and protection of vulnerable species and habitats. A strong capacity building and policy-support focus is key to maximising sustainability of project outcomes. The project was designed by FAO, who together with the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Forestry, and the Ministry of Environment form key implementing partners. Communities are central both as partners in designing testing and piloting climate-smart interventions, but also as users of project outputs.

About the Position

As the project enters its final year (April 2026 to April 2027), we are seeking an experienced and energetic Communications Specialist to work with the team to ensure project activities are communicated appropriately to diverse stakeholders, and that knowledge generated remains accessible beyond the life of the project. The position will be work closely with the project Technical Lead, as well as with climate change, gender, aquaculture and fisheries specialists and external stakeholders to support the development and publication of written outputs, knowledge products, databases and policy documents.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and produce project communications and knowledge products (e.g. brochure, banners, success stories, briefs, blogs, news articles, video stories and social media posts) in collaboration with the Ikan Adapt team and stakeholders to build capacity and increase visibility.
• Finalize presentation of community and municipal level adaptation plans in collaboration with the Ikan Adapt team to inform stakeholders.
• Ensure project outputs are linked to government data systems and knowledge portals in collaboration with key government stakeholders to ensure alignment
• Engage and keep project stakeholders updated on project activities and outcomes through a regular communication channel, for example, an e-newsletter.
• Review, edit and help format all official project materials, including reports and presentations to ensure that the meet the requirements
• Ensure visibility of the project at national and regional events and in news media by developing and disseminating communication and knowledge products
• Collaborate with scientists and implementation partners to identify and pursue synergistic opportunities for promoting the project’s visibility and advancing its goals through targeted stakeholder materials and activities as needed.
• Oversee and ensure implementation of WorldFish brand in all project materials and activities and liaise with FAO to ensure publications adhere to guidelines and are approved as required by FAO.
• Coordinate with global Communications team to provide content for global and regional campaigns, events, website, and social media channels.

Requirements

• At a minimum, bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations or similar, or a sector-specific degree (Development, natural resources) with substantial experience in a communication or knowledge management position.
• Minimum 5 years of applied working experience in implementing communications and marketing for complex research for development project, program, or institution, with at least 2 years with an international organization.
• Demonstrated exceptional writing, editing, and communication skills in English and Tetun for producing products in a variety of formats (i.e., website, social media, print publications, press releases, event materials, etc.)
• Experience working and communicating effectively with a range of stakeholders including researchers, policymakers and government officials, NGOs, media, and community representatives.
• Experience managing and coordinating development of products with team members and vendors, ensuring quality deliverables in a timely fashion.
• Proven ability to digest, analyze and present complex technical information clearly and concisely in a wide variety of formats to non-scientific audiences.
• Strong skills in event planning and management.
• Must be a self-starter with the ability to work independently with remote supervision, as well as part of a team.
• Strong editing skills with keen attention to detail in reviewing materials and quality of products.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications such as Word and PowerPoint.
• Experience with social media channels, drafting posts and promoting content.
• Possess excellent organizational skills.
• Proactive and enthusiastic to initiate new ideas and convene teams to execute.
• Ability to produce audiovisual and multimedia materials preferred.
• Flexibility to take assignments at short notice or to change assignments at short notice.
• Able to work under pressure and tight deadlines (possibly long hours) when required.

Benefits

This position is ONLY open to citizens of Timor-Leste WorldFish offers a competitive remuneration package including comprehensive benefits (but not limited to) insurance coverage for staff and eligible dependents, employer provident fund contribution, paid leave and others. The duration of the contract will initially be for 12 months with possibility for extension, depending on funding and performance.

How to Apply

Your application must include:

• A copy of your curriculum vitae,
• A cover letter which addresses key requirements stated above; and
• Contact information of three professional referees who may be contacted if you are short-listed for the position.

To be considered, applications must be submitted by no later than 23:59 (TLT), 19 April 2026.

Location: Dili, Timor Leste

The screening will start immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Due to the high volume of applicants for WorldFish positions, we appreciate all interest, but only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Our Gender, Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

Over 40% of WorldFish staff is women with some 30 nationalities represented and contributing to its dynamic multicultural work environment. WorldFish is committed to promoting a work environment where diversity and inclusion are valued and we seek to have gender balance in the organization. We aim to also seek balance across other diversity dimensions.

People in WorldFish are treated equally irrespective of gender, ethnicity/race, national or social origin, disability, religion, political affiliation, age, family size, marital status or any other form of personal identity.

We are an equal opportunities employer and strongly encourage qualified women and men from developing nations to apply.