Entomologist

Job Posting Organization:
Action Against Hunger is a leading global organization dedicated to ending hunger. Established with the mission to innovate solutions and advocate for change, the organization reaches approximately 28 million people annually through its proven hunger prevention and treatment programs. With a workforce of around 8,990 dedicated staff members, Action Against Hunger operates in 55 countries, partnering with local communities to address the root causes of hunger, including issues such as climate change, conflict, inequity, and emergencies. The organization strives to create a world free from hunger for everyone, for good. Action Against Hunger USA is part of the broader Action Against Hunger International network, managing operations in eight countries: Kenya, South Sudan, Somalia, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, Zambia, and Haiti.

Job Overview:
The Entomologist position is contingent upon the confirmation of funding and is primarily located in Nakivale/Kyangwali. The role is designed to provide technical leadership in developing beneficial insect value chains, including apiculture and black soldier fly production, which are essential for supporting income generation, improving nutrition, managing waste, enhancing soil fertility, and promoting circular-economy approaches. The Entomologist will be responsible for leading the technical design and implementation of these insect-based enterprises, ensuring that they are contextually appropriate for both refugee and host community settings. This position requires a proactive approach to training various stakeholders, including farmer groups, youth, field teams, community-based facilitators (CBFs), and lead farmers, on various aspects of insect farming and management. The role also involves establishing demonstration units to showcase best practices in apiculture and black soldier fly production, thereby promoting sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing community resilience.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Entomologist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: leading the technical design and implementation of beneficial insect enterprises; identifying suitable beneficial insect value chains tailored to the needs of refugee and host communities; training farmer groups, youth, field teams, CBFs, and lead farmers on various topics such as apiculture, black soldier fly rearing, hive management, insect-based feed production, safety protocols, harvesting techniques, processing methods, and marketing strategies; supporting the establishment of demonstration units for apiculture or black soldier fly production; promoting linkages between beneficial insect enterprises and other agricultural activities, including crop production, livestock feed, organic fertilizer production, and waste management; providing technical guidance on necessary equipment, starter kits, quality control measures, processing techniques, packaging standards, and market access strategies; monitoring the performance of enterprises, including production levels, income potential, and adoption rates; and documenting lessons learned and business models for potential scaling.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a degree in Agriculture, Entomology, Animal Science, Apiculture, Agribusiness, Environmental Science, or a related field. Additionally, applicants should have at least five years of relevant experience in areas such as apiculture, black soldier fly production, insect-based enterprises, or related agricultural value chains. Demonstrated experience in training smallholder farmers, youth, or community groups is essential. Practical knowledge of low-cost enterprise models that are suitable for vulnerable households is also required. Experience working in refugee settlements or engaging in rural community development initiatives will be considered an added advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a degree in a relevant field such as Agriculture, Entomology, Animal Science, Apiculture, Agribusiness, Environmental Science, or a closely related discipline. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of insect-based agricultural practices and their applications in various community settings.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of professional experience in fields related to apiculture, black soldier fly production, or other insect-based agricultural enterprises. Candidates should have a proven track record of training and mentoring smallholder farmers and community groups, as well as practical experience in implementing low-cost enterprise models that cater to vulnerable populations. Experience in working within refugee settlements or engaging in rural community development projects will be viewed favorably, as it demonstrates an understanding of the unique challenges faced by these communities.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential for effective communication and reporting. Knowledge of local languages may be advantageous for engaging with community members and stakeholders effectively.

Additional Notes:
The position is contingent upon the confirmation of funding, indicating that the role may not be guaranteed until financial resources are secured. The job may involve working in a full-time capacity, and the organization is likely to recruit both nationally and internationally, depending on the availability of qualified candidates. Compensation and benefits details are not provided in the job description, but candidates can expect a competitive package commensurate with their experience and qualifications.