Job Description
Position: Agricultural Extension Officer
Company: International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)
Location: Mopeia, Mozambique
Experience: 3-5 years
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Agronomy or Agricultural Science
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Sustainable Agriculture
Department: Field Operations
Salary: 45,000 – 65,000 SSP
Vacancies: 1
Company Overview
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to investing in rural people. We focus on empowering smallholder farmers to increase productivity, improve food security, and build resilience against climate change. Our mission is to transform rural economies by providing access to credit, technology, and markets. As part of our global commitment to eradicating poverty, we operate extensively across Africa, ensuring that marginalized communities have the tools necessary for sustainable growth. We are currently looking for dedicated professionals to join our mission in Mozambique, contributing to impactful development projects that change lives at the grassroots level.
Working with IFAD means being part of a global network of experts committed to social justice and economic stability. We prioritize sustainable practices that respect local ecosystems while maximizing human potential. Our presence in Mozambique is focused on creating long-term, scalable solutions for rural development, ensuring that agricultural growth is both inclusive and environmentally sound. If you are looking for meaningful career opportunities in Mozambique, IFAD offers a platform to make a tangible difference in the lives of millions.
Job Overview
The Agricultural Extension Officer will play a critical role in implementing our rural development programs in the Mopeia region. This position is designed for a field-oriented professional who is passionate about agricultural innovation and community empowerment. You will serve as the primary link between scientific research and practical application, translating complex agronomic techniques into actionable methods for local farmers. Your goal is to enhance crop yields, improve soil health, and promote sustainable water management practices among smallholder farmers.
This role requires a unique blend of technical expertise and interpersonal skills. You will not just be teaching; you will be listening to the needs of the community to ensure our interventions are culturally appropriate and economically viable. By joining our team, you will contribute to the broader goal of food security in the region. For more information on our global initiatives, please visit https://mozambiquejobsearch.com.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct field visits to smallholder farms to assess crop health and soil conditions.
- Organize and lead community training workshops on modern, sustainable farming techniques.
- Demonstrate the use of climate-resilient seed varieties and organic fertilization methods.
- Collaborate with local cooperatives to improve market access for small-scale producers.
- Monitor and report on the progress of agricultural interventions and project outcomes.
- Assist farmers in implementing pest and disease management strategies.
- Maintain detailed records of farmer participation and training effectiveness.
Required Skills
- In-depth knowledge of tropical agronomy and soil science.
- Strong communication skills in Portuguese and local dialects.
- Ability to design and implement community-based training modules.
- Proficiency in data collection and field reporting tools.
- Excellent problem-solving skills in challenging rural environments.
- Cultural sensitivity and experience working with diverse rural populations.
Education
A minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Science, Rural Development, or a closely related field is required. Candidates with advanced degrees in specialized agricultural disciplines will be given preference.
Experience
Applicants must possess between 3 to 5 years of hands-on experience in agricultural extension services or rural development projects. Proven experience working in remote rural areas of Mozambique is highly desirable. Experience in managing community-led agricultural initiatives is a significant advantage.
Salary
The monthly salary for this position ranges from 45,000 SSP to 65,000 SSP, depending on the candidate’s experience and technical qualifications. This is a competitive package designed to attract high-quality professionals to the field.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health and life insurance coverage.
- Travel and field allowance for remote site visits.
- Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
- Access to international training programs and workshops.
- Opportunities for career advancement within the UN system.
Training
New hires will undergo an intensive orientation program covering IFAD’s specific methodologies and local project guidelines. We provide ongoing training in:
- Advanced climate-smart agriculture techniques.
- Community engagement and participatory rural appraisal (PRA) methods.
- Digital data collection and monitoring technologies.
Working Environment
This is primarily a field-based role located in the Mopeia district. You should be prepared to travel frequently to remote rural villages, often via unpaved roads and in varied weather conditions. The work involves significant time spent outdoors in agricultural settings. While the role is physically demanding, it offers the unique reward of seeing direct, positive impacts on the livelihoods of local communities. For those looking for more regional insights, check https://rwandajobsearch.com/job-vacancy-in-rwanda/ for similar roles in East Africa.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter detailing their relevant field experience through our official recruitment portal. Please ensure all documentation is in English or Portuguese. We are looking for candidates who demonstrate a genuine passion for rural development and sustainable agriculture. For more job vacancies across the continent, visit https://nigeriajobsearch.com/.
Equal Opportunity Statement
IFAD is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, including women and members of local communities.