World Food Programme (WFP) Vacancy: Nutritionist – Bhutan (2026)

Organization: World Food Programme (WFP) Role: Programme Policy Officer (Nutrition) / Nutritionist Grade: NO-B (National Officer) or CST II (International Consultant) Location: Thimphu, Bhutan (with field travel to Dzongkhags) Contract Type: Fixed-Term (1 Year Renewable) or Consultant (11 Months) Closing Date: 10 February 2026

The World Food Programme (WFP) in Bhutan is seeking a passionate and technical Nutritionist to join its team in the Himalayas.

Bhutan is a global success story in development, famous for its philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH). However, the “triple burden” of malnutrition (undernutrition, micronutrient deficiency, and obesity) remains a challenge. WFP Bhutan is transitioning from a direct food aid provider to a strategic technical partner for the Royal Government of Bhutan.

We need a Nutrition Expert to lead the next phase of our National School Feeding & Nutrition Programme, ensuring that every child in Bhutan receives a fortified, nutritious meal that fuels their education.

Also check UNESCO Junior Research Consultant: Global Education Report (Remote)

Background & Role Description

In 2026, WFP Bhutan’s portfolio is focused on System Strengthening. You will not be handing out bags of rice; you will be designing policies and supply chains.

As the Nutritionist, you will work directly with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health. Your primary goal is to optimize the nutritional value of school meals, promote Rice Fortification, and integrate nutrition education into the national curriculum.

This role requires a blend of hard science (calculating caloric/micronutrient needs) and soft skills (convincing government stakeholders to adopt new standards).

World Food Programme (WFP) Vacancy: Nutritionist – Bhutan (2026)

Key Responsibilities

1. School Menu Optimization:

• Review and revise the National School Feeding Menu using the “PLUS” (School Menus Optimizer) software to ensure cost-efficiency and nutritional balance.
• Ensure menus incorporate locally produced vegetables and fortified rice.

2. Rice Fortification Strategy:

• Provide technical support to the government and private millers on the blending and quality control of Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK).
• Monitor the supply chain to ensure fortified rice reaches even the most remote schools in the Himalayas.

3. Policy & Advocacy:

• Draft policy briefs and technical guidance notes for the Ministry of Health regarding Social Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) to reduce junk food consumption among adolescents.
• Represent WFP in the National Nutrition Taskforce.

4. Evidence Generation:

• Design and oversee baseline/endline surveys to measure the impact of nutrition interventions on stunting and anemia rates.

Qualifications & Requirements

WFP seeks a technical expert who can work independently in a small, high-performing Country Office.

Education

• Essential: Advanced University Degree (Master’s) in Nutrition, Public Health, Food Technology, or Dietetics.

Experience

• Experience:
  • For National Officer (NO-B): Minimum 3 years of postgraduate professional experience.
  • For International Consultant: Minimum 5-7 years of international experience.
• Technical Skills: Deep knowledge of Micronutrient deficiencies, Rice Fortification technologies, and School Feeding modalities.
• Data Analysis: Proficiency in statistical software (SPSS, STATA) and nutrition analysis tools (NutVal, ENA for SMART).

Language

• English: Fluency (Level C) is mandatory.
• Dzongkha: Fluency is required for National Officer posts; desirable but not required for International Consultants.

Why Apply for This Position

1. Work in “The Land of the Thunder Dragon” Bhutan is one of the most unique duty stations in the UN system. You will live in Thimphu, a peaceful capital city surrounded by pine forests and monasteries, with clean air and a rich cultural heritage.

2. Strategic Impact WFP Bhutan is small but agile. You will have direct access to high-level government decision-makers. Your technical advice will be translated directly into national policy, affecting 100% of school-aged children in the country.

3. UN Benefits

• Tax-Free Salary: (For International Consultants).
• Health Insurance: Global medical coverage.
• Annual Leave: 2.5 days per month (30 days per year).

How to Apply

1. Visit the Portal: Go to the WFP E-Recruitment Portal.
2. Filter:
   • Country: Select “Bhutan”.
   • Function: Select “Nutrition” or “Programme.”
3. Create Profile: Build your CV in the system (ensure you list your specific technical nutrition skills).
4. Cover Letter: Address your letter to the “Country Director, WFP Bhutan.” Focus on your experience with Capacity Strengthening and Government Liaison.

Pro Tip: WFP values “Nationalization.” If you are a Bhutanese national studying abroad, this is the perfect opportunity to return home with a prestigious international organization.

Suggested Focus Keywords

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