Agronomist Specialist – Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada
Job Description
| Reports to: | Country Manager |
| Contract Term: | 2 Years (with possibility of extension) |
| Status: | Full-time |
| Annual Salary: | $22,000 to $25,000 CAD |
| Work Location: | Lilongwe, Malawi |
Formed in 1947, the Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada (CDF Canada) has focused its efforts on advancing self-reliant, member-owned co-operatives on a global scale. The strength of CDF Canada is grounded in its mission – Acting on Co-operative principles, we partner with communities to achieve sustainable economic and social development – and is at the heart of all strategic activities the organization undertakes. Inclusivity is at the heart of what we do! We recognize the immense value that different experiences and perspectives bring to our organization.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Agronomist Specialist will provide expert advice and technical support to improve crop production, soil health, and sustainable agricultural practices. The Agronomist will conduct research, develop strategies for crop management, and work closely with farmers, agricultural organizations, and other stakeholders to implement best practices. The Agronomist plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainable agriculture practices and enhancing crop productivity within the context of the Integrated Aquaculture-Agriculture Malawi (IAAM) project. The primary focus will be on supporting smallholder farmers to improve their food security and livelihood through innovative and holistic approaches.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Project Planning and Implementation
- Collaborate with the Country Manager and relevant stakeholders to design and execute integrated aquaculture-agriculture initiatives.
- Develop detailed work plans, ensuring alignment with project goals and timelines.
- Coordinate field activities related to crop cultivation, aquaculture, and resource management.
Smallholder Engagement, Technical Support and Capacity Building
- Develop training programs and workshops for farmers and agricultural workers. Cooperatives and other relevant stakeholders.
- Collaborate with partners and departments to oversee the design, construction, and management of demonstration ponds/plots.
- Work closely with smallholder farmers to provide technical guidance on crop selection, soil management, planting, irrigation practices and harvesting.
- Empower farmers to adopt climate-smart techniques and diversify their income sources.
- Promote and implement sustainable farming practices that improve soil health, water conservation and biodiversity.
Crop Management, Soil Health, Conservation
- Recommend appropriate fertilizers, soil amendments, and crop rotation strategies.
- Design and implement agronomic strategies and plans tailored to specific regions and crops.
- Promote efficient resource sharing, such as recycling farm waste as fertilizer or using household organic waste.
- Collaborate with partner and departments to optimize production efficiency and yield to demonstrate the impact of IAA through farmer-managed on-farm, focusing on various fish production variants within the IAA system, including livestock, crops, and vegetables, suitable for small-scale farming.
- Monitor and evaluate the impact of agronomic interventions; recommend improvement based on evaluation findings to enhance the effectiveness of agricultural programs.
- Monitor crop health, identify pests, and implement pest control measures.
- Promote agroforestry practices that integrate trees, crops, and fishponds.
- Assess the impact of agroforestry on biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Data Collection, Reporting, Research and Innovation
- Conduct field trials and experiments to evaluate the effectiveness of different crop varieties, fertilizers, and other agricultural inputs.
- Analyze date and prepare reports on research findings to inform agricultural practices and policies.
- Maintain accurate records of crop yields, input usage and field observations
- Prepare regular reports for donors, government agencies and project stakeholders
- Participate in impact assessments and evaluations
- Stay informed about advancements in agronomy, aquaculture and sustainable agriculture
- Collaborate with research institutions to pilot new technologies and practices
- Adapt research findings to local contexts
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s or Master’s in Agronomy, Agriculture, Soil Science, Environmental Science, or related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in agronomy and crop management, preferably working with smallholder farmers.
- Proven experience in conducting agricultural research and field trials.
- Strong understanding of crop production and ecosystem dynamics relevant to Malawi.
- Experience with farm management systems for monitoring and optimizing farm operations.
- Proficiency in using agricultural software and technology.
- Proven ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including local communities and government agencies.
- Excellent leadership, communication, team management, and interpersonal skills.
- High level of proficiency in written and oral English.
- Passion for sustainable agriculture and aquaculture development in Malawi.
COMPETENCY & SKILLS REQUIREMENTS
- Excellent communication and advocacy for responsible aquaculture and agriculture practices.
- Ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and local communities
- Experience in project design, implementation, and monitoring.
- Results-oriented mindset with attention to detail
- Ability to manage budgets and timelines effectively
- Willingness to travel to remote areas
- Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and learn from setbacks
- Prepare regular reports for donors, government agencies and project stakeholders
TO APPLY
We require all applications, including cover letters and resumes, to be submitted through CDF Canada’s web portal.
Application Deadline: Monday, July 29, 2024 4:00 p.m. CAT
Applicants must be Malawi Citizens or have legal authorization to work in Lilongwe, Malawi. Please note that we are unable to provide visa assistance or offer relocation support for this position.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview, and unsolicited communication will not be accepted.
CDF Canada is committed to diversity and is an equal-opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, or age.