CRS: Oficial de Campo

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 is dedicated to saving, protecting, and transforming lives in need, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. CRS's work encompasses various sectors including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The agency values diversity and welcomes individuals from all faiths and secular traditions who share its mission and commitment to serve those in need. CRS is also committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, ensuring that its processes and policies reflect this commitment. The organization employs a workforce that is representative of the communities it serves, and it prioritizes candidates from the countries and regions where it operates.

Job Overview:
The position of CRS: Oficial de Campo, also known as Monitor de Campo de Agricultura Regenerativa, is integral to the implementation of the Iniciativa Horizontes. This role involves providing technical support and monitoring activities related to Regenerative Agriculture, conservation agriculture practices, and agricultural production systems with a focus on basic grains and vegetables. The official will work closely with local partners, allies, and community members to coordinate project activities and events that align with the mission of Catholic Relief Services. The position requires strong interpersonal skills to ensure that local partners and communities benefit from the initiative, which consistently applies best practices and strives to enhance its impact. The official will be responsible for facilitating the development of competencies in sustainable agricultural practices and ensuring the quality and sustainability of interventions in the territory.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the CRS: Oficial de Campo include providing technical assistance and facilitating the development of competencies in agricultural production systems, sustainable soil and water management, and related topics for partner organizations and local communities. The official will develop and implement training plans with a focus on adult education methodologies that promote the leadership of agricultural promoters in coordination with shared-value partners and allies. Responsibilities also include monitoring the implementation of programmatic activities and financial execution by partner organizations, ensuring programmatic quality and sustainability of interventions, and promoting the integration of components such as Regenerative Agriculture, Youth, Microfinance, Markets, and Governance within the initiative. Regular field visits will be conducted to verify progress, identify challenges, and make necessary adjustments to improve the quality and impact of interventions. The official will support MEAL processes, track indicators, collect and manage programmatic information related to regenerative agriculture, and implement knowledge management processes, including analysis of indicators and documentation of promising practices and lessons learned. Communication of key information and results to community members, colleagues, and participants is also a critical responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the CRS: Oficial de Campo position should possess a strong educational background in agronomy, environmental sciences, or related fields, with a preference for candidates who have completed their degree or are nearing completion. A minimum of three years of experience in a similar role with responsibilities related to agricultural projects is required. Proven experience in productive chains of vegetables and basic grains, as well as experience in supporting, advising, and training groups in development projects, is essential. The candidate should demonstrate strong leadership, advisory, and relationship-building skills, particularly in partnership contexts. The ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and communicate effectively with team members, external consultants, and government officials is crucial. Proficiency in knowledge transfer to diverse audiences through training and other formal and informal methodologies is expected.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a degree or be nearing completion in a field related to agronomy, environmental sciences, or similar disciplines. This educational background is essential for understanding the technical aspects of regenerative agriculture and sustainable practices.

Experience:
A minimum of three years of relevant experience in a similar position is required. This experience should include responsibilities related to agricultural projects, particularly in the areas of vegetable and grain production, as well as experience in training and capacity building for local communities and partner organizations.

Languages:
A basic level of English is desirable for this position. Proficiency in Spanish is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with local partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to involve approximately 80% fieldwork, requiring the candidate to travel frequently within the designated territories. The role is full-time and may involve working under pressure and prioritizing multiple activities simultaneously. A valid driver's license for a standard four-wheel vehicle is required. CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants, community members, staff, and volunteers from all forms of exploitation and abuse, and the successful candidate will be expected to adhere to the organization's Code of Conduct.