Technical Specialist for Agroforestry

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to serve those in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, focusing on various areas such as emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The organization is dedicated to saving, protecting, and transforming lives without regard to race, religion, or nationality. CRS is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and it welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds who share its values and commitment to service.

Job Overview:
The Technical Specialist for Agroforestry will play a crucial role in leading specific components of the Carbon Project Pilot Philippines. This position involves providing technical oversight and ensuring that effective systems and processes are in place to support high-quality programming. The specialist will coordinate with consortium members and partners, oversee the biodiversity carbon monitoring system, and ensure that the project delivers impactful outcomes over a five-year period. The role requires a strong focus on developing agroforestry plans, conducting biodiversity studies, and providing technical support to local partners in sustainable land and forest restoration practices. The specialist will also be responsible for project design, implementation, and evaluation, ensuring alignment with CRS program quality principles and donor requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Technical Specialist for Agroforestry include coordinating with project stakeholders and community members to develop agroforestry plans, leading biodiversity studies, and providing technical oversight for baseline studies related to carbon outcomes. The specialist will develop training materials, conduct training of trainers (TOT), and support local partners in implementing sustainable practices. Responsibilities also include assessing nurseries, liaising with global carbon specialists, managing project cycles, developing monitoring and learning plans, and championing learning and documentation of results. The specialist will analyze project performance data, identify issues, and coordinate capacity strengthening interventions for partner organizations. Additionally, the role involves managing financial and material resources, ensuring timely submission of quality reports to donors, and contributing to CRS's program growth and business development initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in Forestry, Land Restoration, Environmental Science, or Natural Resource Management. Additional relevant experience may substitute for formal education. A minimum of 5 years of field-based experience in coordinating or managing projects related to agroforestry, conservation, reforestation, and biodiversity is required, preferably with an international NGO. Experience engaging with partner organizations, including government and faith-based entities, is also essential. Exposure to nature-based carbon projects is preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in relevant fields such as Forestry, Land Restoration, Environmental Science, or Natural Resource Management. Candidates with additional experience in lieu of formal education may also be considered, highlighting the importance of practical knowledge and skills in the field.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant field-based experience in project coordination or management, specifically in areas related to agroforestry, conservation, reforestation, and biodiversity. Candidates should have a proven track record of engaging with partner organizations and managing projects effectively, with a preference for those who have experience in international NGO settings and nature-based carbon projects.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Tagalog is mandatory for this position. Strong communication skills in both languages are essential for effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders and for the preparation of reports and documentation.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Bukidnon, Philippines, and may require travel up to 50%. The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct and commitment to safeguarding program participants. The role does not have supervisory responsibilities. CRS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prioritizes candidates who are citizens or permanent residents of the countries where CRS operates. The anticipated duration of the assignment may be influenced by the type and level of the job and the agency's needs.