Agro-ecology and Extension Services Adviser , Malawi

Two-year placement (with the possibility of renewal depending on availability of funding and performance).

Please note that for this placement we are only able to consider applicants who are fluent in English and Chichewa.

The Development Worker (DW), working as an Agro-ecology and Extension Services Adviser, will provide Environment Africa (EA) Malawi with technical assistance to build the knowledge and capacities of staff to develop and improve production systems among small-scale communal farmers. The principal focus will involve introducing cost effective and environmentally sustainable farming methods amongst farmers in order for them to achieve food security by adopting innovative and sustainable approaches to agriculture production and management of natural resources for alternative forms of livelihoods. The DW will work in collaboration with two other DWs based in Zimbabwe who are also attached to the project.

S/he will support the introduction of agro-ecological production units in Traditional Authority Msosa, in the Salima District. In particular, the DW will improve the technical skills and knowledge of EA Malawi in agro-ecology and build expertise on conservation agriculture technologies, including the establishment of farmer field schools, agricultural production, diversification, value chain addition, marketing and business development, community mobilisation, community savings schemes, development of field training materials, and monitoring and evaluation of agro-ecological-based initiatives.

The successful candidate should have a Master’s degree in Agriculture, or a related qualification.

You should have at least five years’ experience in development programmes related to small-scale agricultural production, preferably in developing countries. Experience in designing and delivering extension services to resource poor farmers; in designing and introducing appropriate technology in agriculture and at the community level; in introducing agro-ecological production systems at the community level among resource poor farmers; in carrying out rapid research with farmers for beneficiary driven advocacy, and of working on advocacy on agricultural issues is essential.

A sound understanding and interpretation of agro-ecology as a concept and how it applies in the local context; of how extension systems are designed, their constraints and enablers, and cutting edge knowledge of organic products and production systems knowledge is essential. You should also have outstanding training skills, especially among small-scale farmers and extension staff; good report writing skills; good interpersonal skills, with a willingness and ability to work as part of a team and to share skills in a collaborative and participatory manner; an ability to communicate with a diverse range of people, and to plan and implement own work with limited support.

A readiness to work with people with widely differing belief systems and personal circumstances; a willingness to undertake road travel in and between Malawi and Zimbabwe, and a demonstrable commitment towards the aims and objectives of Environment Africa and Progressio is required.

How to apply:

It is essential that you complete the application form in full, as very specific information is required and will be used to decide whether or not you will be short-listed for an interview. Please note that CVs/resumes will not be considered.

For further information and an application form visit www.progressio.org.uk/jobs

Interviews: Beginning/mid April 2013

Please return the completed application form to: Recruitment@progressio.org.uk