Immediate Supervisor: Project Manager
Appointment Type: Full-Time Contract
Contract Duration: 7 Months
Job Location: Mafa Local Government Area, Borno State
Working Condition: Field-based
Job Summary
The Agricultural Extension Officer will play a key role in supporting DHCBI’s Food Security and Livelihood (FSL) program by delivering technical expertise, training, and field-based guidance to project beneficiaries. The role focuses on enhancing local agricultural productivity through sustainable farming practices, soil management, and innovative methods such as hydroponics and the Farmer Field School (FFS) approach. Working closely with the FSL team, the Officer will ensure that all agricultural interventions are aligned with both DHCBI and donor standards, contributing to improved food security and resilient livelihoods in target communities.
Key Responsibilities
Program Implementation
- Support the design and execution of agricultural extension services including crop management, dry/wet season farming, pest control, and sustainable soil practices.
- Introduce and promote environmentally friendly practices that increase productivity and soil health.
Training and Capacity Building
- Conduct practical trainings for beneficiaries on improved crop production, organic composting, and hydroponic fodder production.
- Deliver Farmer Field School (FFS) sessions to foster peer learning and local adaptation of new technologies.
Hydroponics and Innovation
- Lead hands-on training in hydroponic techniques for soil-free cultivation of vegetables and animal fodder.
- Establish and manage demonstration sites showcasing hydroponics and other innovative practices.
Field Demonstrations and Technical Support
- Set up demo plots illustrating pest control, crop rotation, and compost use.
- Provide continuous technical support to farmers to address challenges and adopt new techniques effectively.
Community Engagement
- Work with community leaders and local groups to ensure community ownership and sustainability of agricultural practices.
- Encourage female participation in agricultural training and leadership roles.
Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting
- Conduct regular field visits to monitor adoption rates, crop yields, and challenges.
- Maintain accurate records of interventions, outcomes, and submit timely, detailed reports to the FSL team.
Coordination and Partnerships
- Collaborate with government agriculture departments, research institutes, and local extension agents to align efforts and share best practices.
- Attend and contribute to relevant agricultural cluster meetings, workshops, and forums.
Compliance and Ethics
- Ensure all activities align with DHCBI and donor (e.g. WFP) requirements and ethical standards.
- Promote a culture of accountability, compliance, and transparency in all field operations.
Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA)
- Uphold and promote DHCBI’s PSEA policies across all activities.
- Maintain a safe, inclusive environment for beneficiaries and community stakeholders.
Gender Equality
- Ensure gender-sensitive programming and equitable access to training and resources for women, men, and other vulnerable groups.
- Integrate gender considerations into all agricultural activities and field-level decision-making.
Requirements
Education:
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Science, Agronomy, or a related field.
Experience:
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in agricultural extension, preferably within a humanitarian or development context.
Skills:
- Strong technical knowledge in crop management, sustainable farming, hydroponics, pest control, and organic methods.
- Proven ability to deliver training and engage communities.
- Strong communication, reporting, and interpersonal skills.
Additional Requirements:
- Experience with donor-funded programs, particularly WFP, is an asset.
- Willingness and ability to work in remote field locations under challenging conditions.
Working Conditions
- Travel: Up to 80% field-based work.
- Hours: Standard 8-hour workday with flexibility based on project needs.
Important Notes
- DHCBI does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
- DHCBI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and strongly encourages female candidates to apply.
- DHCBI adheres strictly to the Humanitarian Principles: humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and operational independence.
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