Monitor de Campo de Agricultura Regenerativa especializado en café

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to fulfill the commitment of the U.S. Bishops to assist the poor and vulnerable overseas, CRS operates in more than 100 countries. The organization focuses on saving, protecting, and transforming lives through various programs including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is dedicated to serving individuals without regard to race, religion, or nationality, and welcomes staff from diverse faiths and secular traditions who share its values. The organization is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, ensuring that its processes reflect this commitment. CRS prioritizes hiring candidates from the regions in which it operates, and its talent acquisition procedures are designed to uphold the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly those most at risk.

Job Overview:
The position of Monitor de Campo de Agricultura Regenerativa especializado en café involves assisting in the implementation of the Iniciativa Horizontes by providing technical support and monitoring activities related to Regenerative Agriculture, conservation agriculture practices, and agricultural production systems with a focus on coffee. The role requires direct collaboration with local partners, allies, and community members to coordinate project activities and events that support the mission of Catholic Relief Services. The successful candidate will utilize their interpersonal skills to ensure that local partners and communities benefit from the initiative, consistently applying best practices and striving to enhance impact. This position is crucial for fostering relationships and ensuring effective communication among stakeholders, thereby contributing to the overall success of the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Monitor de Campo include providing technical assistance and facilitating the development of competencies in Agricultural Systems Approach (ASA), sustainable soil and water management, and other related topics for partner organizations and local communities. The candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing training plans with a focus on adult education methodologies that promote leadership among agricultural promoters in coordination with shared value partners and allies. Monitoring the implementation of programmatic activities and financial execution by partner organizations is essential, as is ensuring the quality and sustainability of interventions in the territory. The role also involves promoting the integration of components such as Regenerative Agriculture, Youth, Microfinance, Markets, and Governance within the initiative, ensuring synergy in territorial actions. Regular field visits will be necessary to track progress, identify challenges, and make necessary adjustments to improve the quality and impact of interventions. The candidate will support MEAL processes, monitor indicators, collect and manage programmatic information related to regenerative agriculture, and implement knowledge management processes, including analysis of indicators and documentation of case studies and promising practices. Communication of key information and results to community members, colleagues, and participants is also a critical responsibility, along with supporting evaluation, accountability, and learning activities within the regenerative agriculture component.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess a degree in agronomy, environmental sciences, or a related field, or be in the final stages of their degree program. A minimum of three years of experience in a similar role is required, with proven experience in the coffee production value chain. The candidate should have experience in providing support, advice, and training to groups on development projects. Strong leadership, advisory, and relationship-building skills are essential, particularly in partnership contexts. The ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and excellent communication skills are necessary for effective interaction with team members, external consultants, and government officials. The candidate should also have the ability to transfer knowledge to diverse audiences through training and other formal and informal methodologies. The role requires the capacity to work under pressure and prioritize multiple simultaneous activities, along with proactivity, adaptability, dedication, creativity, and a service-oriented mindset. Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and a valid driver's license for a standard 4-wheel vehicle are also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates should ideally have a degree in agronomy, environmental sciences, or a related field. Those who are in the final stages of their degree program may also be considered. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in agricultural practices, environmental stewardship, and community engagement, which are critical for the successful execution of the responsibilities associated with this position.

Experience:
A minimum of three years of relevant experience is required for this position. This experience should include responsibilities similar to those outlined in the job description, particularly in the context of agricultural development and community engagement. Proven experience in the coffee production value chain is essential, as well as experience in supporting, advising, and training groups involved in development projects. The candidate should demonstrate a strong track record of working effectively in partnership with local organizations and communities.

Languages:
A basic level of English is desirable for this position. While fluency in Spanish is mandatory, knowledge of English will enhance communication with international partners and stakeholders. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages will be beneficial for the role, especially in contexts involving training and collaboration with diverse groups.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in the San Marcos territory, specifically in the municipalities of Sibinal, Tacaná, and Tectitán/Huehuetenango. The role requires significant fieldwork, with approximately 80% of the time spent in field activities. The position is classified as Band 5 within the organization, indicating a mid-level role with specific responsibilities and expectations. CRS is committed to equal employment opportunities and prioritizes candidates who are citizens or permanent residents of the countries where CRS operates. The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct and participate in safeguarding measures to protect vulnerable populations.