Summary
Date Posted: Tuesday, March 26 2024, Base Salary: Not Disclosed

JOB DETAILS:
Project
• Development and implementation of Agricultural strategy and operationalization of agriculture focused projects.
Job Title & Grade
• Technical Specialist – Agriculture, Grade TS1
Employment Type & Tenure
• Short-Term Employment for Twelve (12) Months
Reporting & Department
• Chief Investments Officer – Investments Department

Roles and responsibilities
The roles and responsibilities of the specialist will include the following:
• Developing and implementing an agri-business strategy and business cases for the projects.
• Overseeing and managing agricultural projects covering planning and execution to ensure they are completed timeously, within budget, and in compliance with applicable regulations and standards.
• Assessing the distribution of different land types and soils and producing soil and crop suitability maps for the farms.

Qualifications
• Master’s degree or higher qualification in agriculture, agronomy, crop science, or a related field.
• Post graduate qualification in business administration, economics or finance will be an added advantage.
7.Relevant Work Experience (indicating the desirable experience)
• Minimum 10 years relevant work experience with at least 5 years in senior roles. Experience in the Zambian context will be an added advantage.
• In-depth knowledge of agricultural principles, practices, and techniques including understanding soil science, crop physiology, pest management, irrigation systems, and agricultural economics.
• Direct experience with crop production, soil management, and agricultural operations.
• Proficiency in using agricultural technologies and tools. Familiarity with precision agriculture technologies, GIS/GPS systems, agricultural machinery, and software for data analysis and farm management.
• Flexibility and ability to adjust strategies based on evolving needs including climates, soil conditions, and agricultural practices.
• Proficiency in project planning, implementation, and evaluation.
• Ability to champion building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders, including farmers, government agencies, research institutions, and agricultural organizations.
• Strong commitment to sustainable agriculture practices, including conservation of natural resources, environmental stewardship, and resilience to climate change.
• Awareness of relevant regulations, policies, and standards governing agricultural practices.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication skills.

Deliverables
• Develop bankable agriculture sector development strategy and implementation plan.
• Operationalization of at least one mega farm by Q4 2024.
• Develop comprehensive plans for crop production, including selection of appropriate crop varieties, planting schedules, fertilization strategies, and pest and disease management protocols.
• Develop comprehensive plans for soil tests and analyses to assess soil fertility, structure, and nutrient levels. Recommend appropriate soil management practices to optimize crop productivity and sustainability.
• Design Pest Management programs to minimize the impact of pests and diseases on crop yields while reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.
• Provide expertise in designing efficient irrigation systems tailored to specific crops and environmental conditions. Optimize water usage, scheduling, and distribution methods to ensure adequate moisture for plant growth while conserving water resources.
• Collaborate with research institutions and agricultural organizations to conduct field trials, experiments, and studies aimed at addressing key challenges in crop production, soil management, and agricultural sustainability.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret agricultural data to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement. Prepare reports and presentations summarizing findings, insights, and recommendations for stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards, certifications, and best practices related to agricultural environmental protection and sustainability.
• Manage agricultural projects from inception, overseeing budgeting, scheduling, resource allocation, and evaluation of project outcomes.
• Coordinate activities with multidisciplinary teams, partners, and stakeholders to achieve project objectives effectively.

Job Experience: No Requirements

Work Hours: 8

Experience in Months:

Level of Education: Associate Degree

Job application procedure
• To apply for this role, send your application letter, Curriculum Vitae (CV), copies of the NRC, Grade 12 Certificate, academic and professional qualifications to the following address on no later than Wednesday, 27th March 2024:
• The Chief Human Capital Officer,
Industrial Development Corporation Limited,
61 Independence Avenue,
P.O Box 37232,
Lusaka, Zambia.
• IDC: An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

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