Driver (Locally Recruited)

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT (International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center) is a non-profit, international organization that focuses on agricultural research and development, particularly in the Global South. Established to address the challenges of security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and agricultural productivity, CIMMYT is dedicated to improving the quantity, quality, and reliability of cereal production systems, including maize, wheat, and other crops. The organization operates in multiple countries, working closely with local farmers and partners to enhance livelihoods and resilience through applied agricultural science. CIMMYT's mission is to foster strong partnerships that contribute to a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system while adhering to environmental sustainability. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

Job Overview:
The primary purpose of the Driver position at CIMMYT is to provide safe, reliable, and efficient transportation and tractor operation services to support the organization's field research and operational activities in Senegal. This role is crucial for ensuring that CIMMYT staff, partners, and visitors can travel safely and efficiently to various project sites. The driver will be responsible for the proper operation, care, and preventive maintenance of assigned vehicles and tractors, ensuring compliance with organizational safety standards and policies. The position requires a commitment to professionalism and integrity, as the driver will be representing CIMMYT in various capacities while performing their duties. Additionally, the driver will be expected to assist with logistical and administrative tasks as needed, contributing to the overall success of CIMMYT's operations in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Light Vehicle Driving: Provide safe, timely, and professional transportation services to CIMMYT staff, partners, consultants, and visitors. Ensure that assigned vehicles are clean, roadworthy, adequately fueled, and properly maintained. Comply with Senegalese traffic regulations and CIMMYT/AfricaRice transport and safety policies. Maintain accurate vehicle logbooks and records of travel, fuel consumption, passengers, and transported materials. Conduct airport transfers and support official travel and logistics activities across CIMMYT operational areas. Promptly report accidents, incidents, mechanical issues, or other concerns to the supervisor. Uphold confidentiality, professionalism, and integrity in all duties. Perform other transport, logistical, and administrative tasks as assigned by the supervisor.
• Tractor Operation: Operate tractors and related equipment for land preparation, planting, harvesting, transportation, and other field operations. Attach and detach agricultural implements as required. Conduct routine inspections and basic preventive maintenance of tractors and equipment. Maintain accurate records of equipment use and fuel consumption. Promptly report mechanical issues, breakdowns, or accidents to the supervisor. Ensure proper care, security, and maintenance of assigned machinery and equipment. Comply with organizational safety standards, operational procedures, and environmental requirements. Perform any other related duties assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess secondary school education or an equivalent qualification. A valid driver's license for light vehicles and tractors/heavy vehicles is essential. Basic knowledge of vehicle and tractor maintenance is required. Candidates should have a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience as a driver and/or tractor operator, with demonstrated experience operating agricultural machinery and light vehicles in rural and field environments. Experience in maintaining vehicle logbooks and monitoring fuel consumption is necessary. Familiarity with working in international organizations, NGOs, research institutions, or development projects is considered an advantage. Safe driving and tractor operation skills, along with basic mechanical and troubleshooting skills, are required. Knowledge of road safety regulations and workplace health and safety standards is essential. Candidates should exhibit reliability, integrity, and professionalism, along with good organizational and record-keeping skills. The ability to work independently and as part of a team, flexibility, and willingness to travel frequently within project areas are also important. Good communication and interpersonal skills are necessary, as is a commitment to safeguarding organizational assets and maintaining confidentiality.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes secondary school education or an equivalent qualification. This foundational education is essential for understanding the responsibilities associated with driving and operating agricultural machinery, as well as for maintaining accurate records and complying with safety regulations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience as a driver and/or tractor operator. Candidates should have demonstrated experience operating agricultural machinery and light vehicles in rural and field environments. Experience in maintaining vehicle logbooks and monitoring fuel consumption is also necessary. Familiarity with working in international organizations, NGOs, research institutions, or development projects is considered an advantage, as it indicates the candidate's ability to navigate diverse work environments and adhere to organizational standards.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in French is likely essential given the location in Senegal, where French is the official language. Knowledge of local languages may also be beneficial for effective communication with local farmers and communities. Good communication skills are emphasized as a requirement for the position, indicating that the ability to communicate clearly and effectively is important.

Additional Notes:
This position is recruited locally, meaning that applicants must have the legal right to work in Senegal at the time of application. CIMMYT does not provide visa sponsorship or work permit support for locally recruited staff roles. The job offers competitive international compensation packages and the opportunity to work in a multicultural environment focused on food security and agricultural research across Africa. It is important to note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted for further consideration. CIMMYT is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages women to apply for this position.