National Consultant - Technical Support for Conservation Agriculture (Zero Tillage)
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM promotes humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, saving lives and protecting people on the move. The organization drives solutions to displacement and facilitates pathways for regular migration while providing services and advice to governments and migrants. IOM is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and feel valued. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on various aspects of migration and humanitarian assistance, and aims to harness the full potential of migration to strengthen its support to people on the move.
Job Overview:
The consultancy is for a specialized technical role supporting Conservation Agriculture activities within IOM Iraq’s Climate Programme. The consultant will provide targeted technical expertise, support the design and initial implementation of conservation agriculture interventions, deliver capacity-building and training, and ensure the technical quality of outputs. This consultancy is necessary due to the lack of specialized technical expertise in conservation agriculture and zero tillage systems within the current project team. The consultant will provide time-bound technical support for the design, piloting, implementation, and capacity-building activities related to specific conservation agriculture interventions. The project aims to enhance climate resilience, improve soil health, and promote sustainable agricultural practices in the Qushtapa sub-district, Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The intervention is part of a broader Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA) approach to address water scarcity, land degradation, and pressures on local livelihoods. The selected consultant will provide specialized technical support for the design, pilot implementation, and capacity-building activities related to zero tillage practices in the targeted area, with the assignment limited to the implementation period of this specific pilot intervention.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for the full cycle of design, implementation, coordination, and capacity building related to zero tillage practices, including but not limited to: A. Planning & Technical Design (1 Sep 2026- 30 Sep 2026): Develop a Zero Tillage Implementation Roadmap, including timeline, cropping calendar, input requirements, and operational steps; Identify and validate pilot plots (3–4 sites, 3–5 Iraqi dunams each) in coordination with farmers and project team; Provide technical specifications for required inputs, including seeds, fertilizers, and machinery (zero tillage seeder); Provide Bill of Quantities for required materials and inputs for the piloting process. B. Stakeholder Coordination (1 Sep 2026- 30 Sep 2026): Support IOM-facilitated coordination with relevant stakeholders, including local authorities, government entities, and community representatives, to ensure alignment with project objectives and activities; Engage with the Directorate of Agriculture in Qushtapa facilitated by IOM staff to ensure alignment with local agricultural practices and policies; Work in close collaboration with IOM project staff to support plan and implement all activities; Participate in engagements with farmers as arranged by IOM project staff, to support the scheduling of trainings, field visits, and implementation activities. C. Training & Capacity Building (1 Oct 2026 - 30 Apr 2027): Develop comprehensive training materials tailored to local context (manuals, presentations, practical guides); Facilitate training sessions for pilot farmers (landowners), broader farming community in the target area, and government trainers (probably Agriculture Extension Services Staff); Train farmers on all aspects of zero tillage, including timing of planting and seasonal planning, harvesting practices, selection of appropriate crop varieties and seeds, types, quantities, and timing of fertilizer use, proper use of machinery and inputs, and input measurement units and application techniques. D. Technical Guidance & Field Implementation (1 Oct 2026 - 30 Apr 2027): Provide hands-on supervision during implementation of zero tillage practices on pilot plots; Guide farmers step-by-step through the practical application of zero tillage; Ensure proper use and maintenance of equipment and inputs; Conduct field demonstrations and farmer field days to promote wider learning. E. Risk Management & Adaptation (1 Oct 2026 - 30 Apr 2027): Clearly explain to farmers the potential challenges and limitations of zero tillage, particularly during the first 1–2 years (e.g., yield variability, weed management issues); Provide practical solutions and mitigation measures to manage and reduce these challenges; Support farmers in adapting practices based on field conditions and feedback. F. Awareness & Behavioral Change (1 Oct 2026 - 30 Apr 2027): Explain in detail the importance and benefits of zero tillage, including soil health improvement, water retention and efficiency, cost reduction over time, and climate resilience; Promote understanding and long-term adoption among farmers. G. Monitoring, Reporting & Knowledge Sharing (1 Oct 2026 - 30 Apr 2027): Monitor progress of implementation and farmer adoption; Document lessons learned, challenges, and success stories; Provide regular updates to the project team; Submit a final technical report including baseline and endline records, evaluation between traditional and zero tillage for the same farmers, results of pilot implementation, farmer feedback and adoption potential, and recommendations for scaling up.
Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for this position include a Bachelor degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, Agriculture, or a related field. The consultant must possess specialized knowledge in conservation agriculture and zero tillage systems. Additionally, the consultant should have proven experience of at least 5 years in implementing zero tillage or conservation agriculture projects, with a strong background in farmer training and capacity building. Experience working with rural communities and smallholder farmers is essential, and familiarity with the context in Iraq or similar environments is considered an asset. The consultant should also demonstrate the ability to translate technical concepts into practical, field-level applications, and have experience in developing training materials and conducting field demonstrations. Strong communication and facilitation skills are necessary for effective engagement with stakeholders and farmers.
Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, Agriculture, or a related field. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the principles of conservation agriculture and zero tillage systems, as well as for effectively implementing the necessary practices and training.
Experience:
The level of experience needed for this position is a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in implementing zero tillage or conservation agriculture projects. This experience should include a strong background in farmer training and capacity building, as well as experience working with rural communities and smallholder farmers. Familiarity with the agricultural context in Iraq or similar regions is considered an asset, as it will enhance the consultant's ability to engage effectively with local farmers and stakeholders.
Languages:
For this consultancy, proficiency in English and Kurdish is required. Knowledge of Arabic is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with local farmers and stakeholders. The proficiency of the required languages will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments to ensure effective communication and understanding of the project objectives.
Additional Notes:
The consultancy is primarily remote, but field missions to Erbil and Qushtapa District in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq will be required. The consultant will be responsible for all costs related to transportation, including travel to and within the project area, accommodation, and other associated expenses, which must be included in the financial proposal. The consultant will be required to travel regularly to Qushtapa to oversee field implementation, conduct trainings, and engage directly with farmers and stakeholders. IOM covers consultants against occupational accidents and illnesses under the Compensation Plan (CP), free of charge, for the duration of the consultancy. However, IOM does not provide evacuation or medical insurance for non-occupational accidents and illnesses, and consultants are responsible for their own medical insurance for such cases. Any offer made to the candidate is subject to funding confirmation, and appointment will be contingent upon certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearances. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background, or disabilities. IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process and only accepts duly completed applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM promotes humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, saving lives and protecting people on the move. The organization drives solutions to displacement and facilitates pathways for regular migration while providing services and advice to governments and migrants. IOM is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and feel valued. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on various aspects of migration and humanitarian assistance, and aims to harness the full potential of migration to strengthen its support to people on the move.
Job Overview:
The consultancy is for a specialized technical role supporting Conservation Agriculture activities within IOM Iraq’s Climate Programme. The consultant will provide targeted technical expertise, support the design and initial implementation of conservation agriculture interventions, deliver capacity-building and training, and ensure the technical quality of outputs. This consultancy is necessary due to the lack of specialized technical expertise in conservation agriculture and zero tillage systems within the current project team. The consultant will provide time-bound technical support for the design, piloting, implementation, and capacity-building activities related to specific conservation agriculture interventions. The project aims to enhance climate resilience, improve soil health, and promote sustainable agricultural practices in the Qushtapa sub-district, Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The intervention is part of a broader Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA) approach to address water scarcity, land degradation, and pressures on local livelihoods. The selected consultant will provide specialized technical support for the design, pilot implementation, and capacity-building activities related to zero tillage practices in the targeted area, with the assignment limited to the implementation period of this specific pilot intervention.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for the full cycle of design, implementation, coordination, and capacity building related to zero tillage practices, including but not limited to: A. Planning & Technical Design (1 Sep 2026- 30 Sep 2026): Develop a Zero Tillage Implementation Roadmap, including timeline, cropping calendar, input requirements, and operational steps; Identify and validate pilot plots (3–4 sites, 3–5 Iraqi dunams each) in coordination with farmers and project team; Provide technical specifications for required inputs, including seeds, fertilizers, and machinery (zero tillage seeder); Provide Bill of Quantities for required materials and inputs for the piloting process. B. Stakeholder Coordination (1 Sep 2026- 30 Sep 2026): Support IOM-facilitated coordination with relevant stakeholders, including local authorities, government entities, and community representatives, to ensure alignment with project objectives and activities; Engage with the Directorate of Agriculture in Qushtapa facilitated by IOM staff to ensure alignment with local agricultural practices and policies; Work in close collaboration with IOM project staff to support plan and implement all activities; Participate in engagements with farmers as arranged by IOM project staff, to support the scheduling of trainings, field visits, and implementation activities. C. Training & Capacity Building (1 Oct 2026 - 30 Apr 2027): Develop comprehensive training materials tailored to local context (manuals, presentations, practical guides); Facilitate training sessions for pilot farmers (landowners), broader farming community in the target area, and government trainers (probably Agriculture Extension Services Staff); Train farmers on all aspects of zero tillage, including timing of planting and seasonal planning, harvesting practices, selection of appropriate crop varieties and seeds, types, quantities, and timing of fertilizer use, proper use of machinery and inputs, and input measurement units and application techniques. D. Technical Guidance & Field Implementation (1 Oct 2026 - 30 Apr 2027): Provide hands-on supervision during implementation of zero tillage practices on pilot plots; Guide farmers step-by-step through the practical application of zero tillage; Ensure proper use and maintenance of equipment and inputs; Conduct field demonstrations and farmer field days to promote wider learning. E. Risk Management & Adaptation (1 Oct 2026 - 30 Apr 2027): Clearly explain to farmers the potential challenges and limitations of zero tillage, particularly during the first 1–2 years (e.g., yield variability, weed management issues); Provide practical solutions and mitigation measures to manage and reduce these challenges; Support farmers in adapting practices based on field conditions and feedback. F. Awareness & Behavioral Change (1 Oct 2026 - 30 Apr 2027): Explain in detail the importance and benefits of zero tillage, including soil health improvement, water retention and efficiency, cost reduction over time, and climate resilience; Promote understanding and long-term adoption among farmers. G. Monitoring, Reporting & Knowledge Sharing (1 Oct 2026 - 30 Apr 2027): Monitor progress of implementation and farmer adoption; Document lessons learned, challenges, and success stories; Provide regular updates to the project team; Submit a final technical report including baseline and endline records, evaluation between traditional and zero tillage for the same farmers, results of pilot implementation, farmer feedback and adoption potential, and recommendations for scaling up.
Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for this position include a Bachelor degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, Agriculture, or a related field. The consultant must possess specialized knowledge in conservation agriculture and zero tillage systems. Additionally, the consultant should have proven experience of at least 5 years in implementing zero tillage or conservation agriculture projects, with a strong background in farmer training and capacity building. Experience working with rural communities and smallholder farmers is essential, and familiarity with the context in Iraq or similar environments is considered an asset. The consultant should also demonstrate the ability to translate technical concepts into practical, field-level applications, and have experience in developing training materials and conducting field demonstrations. Strong communication and facilitation skills are necessary for effective engagement with stakeholders and farmers.
Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor degree in Agronomy, Soil Science, Agriculture, or a related field. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the principles of conservation agriculture and zero tillage systems, as well as for effectively implementing the necessary practices and training.
Experience:
The level of experience needed for this position is a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in implementing zero tillage or conservation agriculture projects. This experience should include a strong background in farmer training and capacity building, as well as experience working with rural communities and smallholder farmers. Familiarity with the agricultural context in Iraq or similar regions is considered an asset, as it will enhance the consultant's ability to engage effectively with local farmers and stakeholders.
Languages:
For this consultancy, proficiency in English and Kurdish is required. Knowledge of Arabic is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with local farmers and stakeholders. The proficiency of the required languages will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments to ensure effective communication and understanding of the project objectives.
Additional Notes:
The consultancy is primarily remote, but field missions to Erbil and Qushtapa District in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq will be required. The consultant will be responsible for all costs related to transportation, including travel to and within the project area, accommodation, and other associated expenses, which must be included in the financial proposal. The consultant will be required to travel regularly to Qushtapa to oversee field implementation, conduct trainings, and engage directly with farmers and stakeholders. IOM covers consultants against occupational accidents and illnesses under the Compensation Plan (CP), free of charge, for the duration of the consultancy. However, IOM does not provide evacuation or medical insurance for non-occupational accidents and illnesses, and consultants are responsible for their own medical insurance for such cases. Any offer made to the candidate is subject to funding confirmation, and appointment will be contingent upon certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearances. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination based on gender, nationality, age, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background, or disabilities. IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process and only accepts duly completed applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system.
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We are not liable for any decisions or actions taken by applicants in response to this job listing. By applying, you agree that all application processes, interviews, and potential job offers are managed exclusively by the listed employer or organization.
Beware of fraudulent job offers. Do not provide sensitive personal information or make any payments to secure a job.