Agronomist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. Its mission is to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. FAO contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through its Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems, focusing on better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.

Job Overview:
The Agronomist position is part of the Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) project, which is implemented by the National Directorate for Environment and Climate Change of the Ministry of Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries (MAAP) in Mozambique. This project aims to address degradation and climate vulnerability in the Greater Maputo Area by focusing on three core ecosystems: mangroves, riparian/wetland areas, and floodplains. The Agronomist will play a crucial role in supervising and technically supporting field implementation in targeted districts, ensuring that sustainable agriculture activities are effectively carried out. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including local authorities and community members, to promote climate-adaptive and resilient production systems such as conservation agriculture, polycropping, and agroforestry. The incumbent will be responsible for developing field implementation plans, supervising training cycles, coordinating project activities, and documenting adaptation practices and impacts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Agronomist will be responsible for a variety of tasks including: developing periodic field implementation plans in collaboration with technicians from the District Economic Activities Services (SDAEs); supervising Farmer Field School (FFS) training cycles to ensure accurate technical delivery; coordinating with the FAO Project Officer for Agriculture on strategies and training design; supporting the execution of project-related activities such as procurement planning and input distribution; systematizing and documenting adaptation practices and results; implementing the e-voucher system for agricultural inputs; coordinating field activities with other project components; and preparing regular progress reports on field activities in line with project reporting requirements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Agriculture, Rural Extension, Forestry, or Natural Resources Management. Additionally, they should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in agricultural extension, resilient farming systems, or related fields. A working knowledge of English and Portuguese is required, and candidates must be nationals of Mozambique. Familiarity with Farmer Field School (FFS) methodologies and experience working in rural communities in Mozambique are desirable. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Maputo Province, such as Changana or Ronga, is considered a strong asset, and an advanced degree is also an advantage.

Educational Background:
The position requires a university degree in a relevant field such as Agriculture, Rural Extension, Forestry, or Natural Resources Management. Candidates must ensure that their educational qualifications are recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED), which is maintained by the International Association of Universities (IAU) and UNESCO.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in agricultural extension, resilient farming systems, or related fields. Experience working in rural communities in Mozambique is highly desirable, as it will provide valuable insights into local agricultural practices and community engagement.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English and Portuguese is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of local languages spoken in Maputo Province, such as Changana or Ronga, is considered a strong asset and may enhance communication with local communities.

Additional Notes:
FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The appointment is also subject to security clearances. For additional employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.