CARE is a leading humanitarian organization dedicated to fighting poverty and social injustice with a special emphasis on women and girls. CARE began working in Zimbabwe in 1992 in response to severe regional drought and has since expanded programming to address longer-term development issues. The organization seeks to recruit outstanding candidates who are known for their excellence, professionalism, integrity and who are committed to providing support to the country office. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply for the position posted below:
Position: Organic and Conservation Agriculture Specialist Base station: Buhera Project: Sustainable Roots
ABOUT THE PROJECT The Sustainable Roots Program is a nutrition promotion program funded by The Light Foundation implemented in Buhera and Tsholotsho districts of Zimbabwe for a 5-year period. The program seeks to support rural communities to increase nutritional status of women, children, and their households by promoting production and consumption of traditional and local foods. The program will apply regenerative agriculture, soil and water and sustainable use of forest products to meet dietary and health needs. The SRP program will support communities with improved access to water for domestic and productive use and will work closely Government Departments to ensure appropriate and synergistic implementation. The program is implemented by a consortium led by CARE Zimbabwe and includes Organization of Rural Associations for Progress and Nutrition Action Zimbabwe.
POSITION SUMMARY We are seeking a knowledgeable and passionate organic crop specialist in dryer areas of Zimbabwe to join our team. In this role, you will provide expert guidance and support to organic farmers, helping them optimize crop production while adhering to organic standards. You will play a key role in advancing organic farming practices through education, technical assistance, and research in rural communities.
Duties and Responsibilities
1. Content development and staff training a. Serve as a content expert for organic agriculture, providing technical training and educational resources. b. Develop and deliver training materials, create educational content, and support outreach efforts. c. Collaborate with various stakeholders, including local leaders, farmer groups and government extension to ensure appropriate delivery. 2. Formulate farmer level technology adoption strategies a. Support the integration of resilience design soil and water conservation approaches in the field b. Train and support project staff and cascade organic producers. c. Develop community level (geo-specific) resources and support outreach to underserved producers. 3. Monitor implementation of technologies and recommend adaptations based on field lessons. a. Assist farmers and ranchers in adopting sustainable practices that improve soil health and address climate change risks. b. Create and disseminate educational materials, conduct media campaigns, and provide technical assistance. c. Develop and deliver educational content, conduct outreach, and build partnerships with farmers and stakeholders.
Position: Organic and Conservation Agriculture Specialist Base station: Buhera Project: Sustainable Roots
4. Generate program reports and support program learning. a. Facilitate staff learning sessions to review progress b. Contribute to technical area program reports and track progress against targets c. Build and maintain relationships with organic producers, industry experts, and relevant organizations. Represent the organization at conferences, seminars, and public forums.
Qualifications and Experience
• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, Agronomy, Soil Science, Horticulture, or a related discipline; Master's or Ph.D. in a relevant field preferred. • Minimum of 5 years of experience in organic crop production or a related field, with expertise in implementing organic farming practices, soil and water conservation methodologies, and designing resilient agricultural systems. • In-depth understanding of organic farming principles, including agroecology, permaculture, and regenerative agriculture; knowledge of heirloom and heritage crop varieties, soil microbiology, integrated pest management, and crop rotation strategies. • Advanced communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex technical information to rural communities using digital tools and basic technology and facilitate knowledge transfer and adoption.
