Showing posts with label Agricultural. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Agricultural. Show all posts

Bangladesh: Agricultural Mechanization Scientist

Organization: International Maize and Wheat Improvement
Country: Bangladesh
Closing date: 01 Nov 2013

We are seeking an experienced and resourceful Agricultural Mechanization Scientist to join a new USAID funded agricultural R4D project focused on efficient surface water irrigation, scale-appropriate mechanization, and conservation agriculture, to sustainably intensify cropping systems in Southern Bangladesh. The five-year, > $12 million project activities are being implemented in collaboration with International Development Enterprises (iDE), and will integrate and build upon synergies created with the already operational Cereal Systems Initiative for South Asia (CSISA) in Bangladesh project. As the Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanization Scientist, you will work to implement and applied research and extension program in partnership with public and private sector partners centered on the use of efficient and scale-appropriate agricultural machinery to intensify dry season cropping in Southern Bangladesh.

The successful applicant will join the multi-institutional and interdisciplinary team that coordinates the Cereal Systems Initiative for South Asia (CSISA) in Bangladesh. CSISA is a collaborative R4D program launched in 2010 with funding from USAID. It combines the strengths CIMMYT, IRRI, and WorldFish in collaboration with public and private sector partners. For more information about CSISA, please visit: http://www.csisaportal.com The CSISA Mechanization and Irrigation project (CSISA-M.I.) represents new and distinct project activities within CSISA. CSISA-M.I. will intensify dry season cropping in the impoverished regions of Southern Bangladesh by facilitating broad access to low-cost and efficient surface water irrigation combined with innovative agronomy, and by researching, perfecting, extending, and commercializing scale-appropriate agricultural machineries and associated services at scale. To achieve these aims, CSISA-M.I. will deliver new models for public and private partnerships to provide the foundation for effective irrigation and mechanization service markets.The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, known by its Spanish acronym, CIMMYT®, is a not-for-profit research and training organization with partners in over 100 countries. Please refer to our website for more information: www.cimmyt.org

The position will be based in Dhaka, Bangladesh and will require very frequent and extensive travel between project field sites, primarily districts of Jessore, Khulna, and Barisal.

Specific duties of this position include:

  1. Contributing to the development, testing, refinement, and field implementation of new agricultural machineries, conservation agriculture and other innovative agronomic practices, specifically those related to sustainable intensification under on-farm conditions.

  2. Oversight of scale-appropriate agricultural mechanization extension activities throughout Southern Bangladesh, in collaboration with government extension and private-sector partners.

  3. Contributing to the development of training modules and outreach materials that will support a variety of change agents including agricultural service providers, agro-dealers, extension agents, and private sector agricultural machinery manufacturers and sellers.

  4. Contributing to the definition of major change pathways that will catalyze sustainable development.

  5. Development of strategic working relationships with public, private sector, and Civil Society (NGOs, Cooperatives, etc.) partners.

  6. Mentoring and overseeing the work of project-based staff.

  7. Maintenance and archiving of field data in alignment with CIMMYT’s data management system.

  8. Communicating key messages and project progress with other scientists, donors, policy makers, and other primary stakeholders.

  9. Publication of research findings in technical reports and in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.

We are seeking candidates with the following academic qualifications, skills and attitudes:

  1. A PhD degree(s) in agricultural sciences, agronomy, agricultural engineering, or related fields.

  2. Practical working knowledge of conservation agriculture (preferred).

  3. Demonstrated research experience in topics associated with scale-appropriate agricultural machineries, as well as experience in training farmers in their efficient and effective field use.

  4. At least four years applied experience in applied, on-farm, adaptive, and participatory agricultural research in developing nations.

  5. Demonstrated partnership building and networking experience with the public and private sectors.

  6. Excellent facilitation, communication, and team-building skills.

  7. Experience with impact pathway analysis, logical frameworks, and theories of change (preferred).

  8. Prior experience working in the context of USAID or similar donor funded agricultural development projects (preferred).

  9. Strong proficiency in written and spoken English.

  10. Excellent publication record in peer-reviewed journals.

  11. Knowledge of South Asian cropping systems (preferred).

We will offer an initial contract for 2 years, which may be renewable subject to continued need and funding for the position and performance of the staff member. Our internationally competitive salary and benefits include housing allowance, car, comprehensive health and life insurance, assistance for children’s education, paid vacation, annual airfare, contribution to a retirement plan, and generous assistance with relocation shipment.

CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Women are encouraged to apply.


How to apply:

To apply for this position, please email cover letter and CV no later than Friday, 1 November, 2013 to Human Resources, CIMMYT (Email: irsrecruitment@cgiar.org / Please indicate Position Reference number: 12296 in the header of your email). For further information on the selection process, please contact Guillermo Flores, Staffing Specialist, at g.flores@cgiar.org .

Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Afghanistan: Agricultural Statistics and Market Information Expert

Organization: Afghan Barez HR Services Co
Country: Afghanistan
Closing date: 14 Sep 2013

Background:
About Afghan Barez HR Services Co
AB-HR is the national leading professional organization, serving as a full-service for all sized businesses. AB-HR has successfully expanded itself by providing outstanding HR solutions to national and international organizations throughout Afghanistan.

Job Summary
Duty Location: Kabul with few travels to provinces
Duration: One year

Afghan Barez HR service is bidding on a Project entitled “EU Support to Capacitate MAIL in Transition for Sustainable Public Services Delivery”. The overall objective of the project of which this position will be part of it is to support the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock (MAIL) and relevant public, semi-public and private entities previously supported by EU-funded agricultural programmes strengthen agriculture as a pillar of development. The project will contribute:

To increase production by extending and improving the quality of irrigated and rain-fed cultivated land and by improving agricultural yields through greater use of high-quality agricultural inputs and extension services.

Qualifications and skills

The Agricultural Statistics and Market information expert should have at least a post – graduate university degree in economics, statistics, sociology or equivalent discipline with a strong quantitative profile.

The expert should be fluent in English (written and spoken).

General professional experience

A t least 10 years experience with a minimum of 5 year in the operational management of similar project in at least 3 different developing countries, with at least one experience in fragile states. Experience in another relevant connected field would be an advantage.

Specific professional experience

The expert should have specific experience in the following areas:

• Proven record of efficient and effective management of large statistical survey projects involving the performance of a wide range of sequenced activities and the coordination of large group of co-workers;
• Experience with implementation of international statistical standards in fragile statistical structures;
• Experience in conducting statistical surveys ( preferably in post –conflict and fragile states and /or in traditional /tribal / Muslim societies );
• Proven ability to build capacity in statistical areas, both at institutional and at individual levels.
• K knowledge of international statistical standards ;
• Thorough understanding and experience in running nationwide household surveys and in overseeing the related core activities ranging from sampling methodology , data collection, data processing and data analysis;
• Experience in designing , conducting multipurpose household surveys and supervising field work;
• Experience in sampling methodologies and weighting procedures;
• Experience in training enumerators , in building and analyzing poverty indicators, in using statistical packages, in data analysis and reporting ;
• Knowledge of best practices in monitoring development strategies;
• Experience of leading a team at least during two years on a project;
• He/she should demonstrate excellent communication and facilitation skills , with highly desirable (above working experience with extensive training / components ), as well as training capacity building and interpersonal skills including diplomacy, tact , and the ability to negotiate and build consensus;
• Experience in Afghanistan or Central- Asia countries would be an advantage;
• Knowledge of Dari and / or Pashto would be an advantage.

Responsibilities

The Agricultural Statistics and Market information Adviser will be responsible for facilitating the operational transition of the EU-funded programme SAEMISS as per MAIL reform , strengthening of the MAIL statistics department as well as developing a proper public / private partnership to improve the accuracy and availability of Agricultural statistics and market information.


How to apply:

Submission Guidelines:
Required Documents; Copies of Academic Qualification Certificates and DegreesThe subject of E-mail should say: Vacancy Number 356, Position Title: Agricultural Statistics and Market information expert (or your application shall not review).

Please send your CV along with Education degree to: hr@afghanbarez.com

The deadline for submission of resumes is 14-SEP-2013. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible as currently we are interviewing candidates; therefore, the applicants can be interviewed and selected as soon as we receive the CV of qualified applicants.

Afghanistan: Chief of Party for the Agricultural Research and Extension Development Program (AGRED)

Organization: Roots of Peace
Country: Afghanistan
Closing date: 04 Sep 2013

Title: Chief of Party (COP)Location: Kabul, AfghanistanReports to: ROP Executive DirectorStart Date and Duration of contract: ASAP/ September 2013. The contract goes through June 30, 2017 – Roots of Peace is looking for a 2+ year commitment.

RoP has seven active programs with over $100 million in funding in Afghanistan focused primarily on agribusiness. The objective of the AGRED program is to provide extension and advisory services to Afghan farmers and build the capacity of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan’s (GIRoA) Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL) and Directorates of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (DAILs) to sustainably develop and deploy technology and knowledge solutions and provide extension and advisory services. More information can be found at www.rootsofpeace.org.

Individuals should have extensive experience interfacing with governmental officials and agencies, and serving as lead on implementation of multi-million dollar projects. We are seeking professionals with excellent communication skills at all levels and with the ability to manage field implementation while also keeping the big picture in perspective. Individual should be able to juggle multiple, complex activities simultaneously and while effectively managing each project to ensure they are on track, within budget and all necessary parties (i.e., donors, staff, third party partners) are consistently informed in a timely manner as mutually agreed upon in the contract. You will be provided additional information on each of these programs during interviews.

Responsibilities: 1. Assume overall responsibility for program• Manage multi-year program with staff over 50• Team is comprised of expatriates (finance, DCOP) and national staff• Manager of multi-million dollar USAID contract.

  1. Liaise with USAID, US Department of Agriculture (USDA), US Department of Defense (DOD) regional command and Government of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (GIRoA):• Is responsible for all communications with USAID, DOD, GIRoA, Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL), Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Economy, Department of NGOs, insuring that all reports and requests for information are delivered on time. Insure that cordial, working relations are maintained with USAID, DOD and the GIRoA and that their appreciation and understanding of our work continues to strengthen.• When possible lead USAID, DOD and/or GIRoA officials to visit program implementation sites and explain the work.• Provide in person brief to USAID and GIRoA at least on a monthly basis, on the progress and challenges of the program.• Work proactively and directly with USAID and GIRoA on any issues impacting the program by presenting challenges and recommending solutions

  2. Administration of Program• Be able to continuously assess program implementation and make adjustments where necessary to keep program on track and/or enhance implementation• Insure program deliverables are met• Conduct field visits to verify quality work• Oversee M&E system• Manage any contract amendments or revisions if required

  3. Budget & Financial Management

    • Assume responsibility for the management of program budgets• Work with ROP financial team to insure timely (within 30 days) invoicing for program activity• Trouble shoot any invoicing problems with ROP financial team• Anticipate purchasing needs and oversee procurements to maintain compliance with donor regulations• Manage budget modification process as needed

  4.  Human Resources

    • Work with ROP HR (Home Office & In Country) on all personnel issues including all hiring, firing, position changes and salary changes for the teams

  5. Reporting

    • Assure that all USAID, DOD and GIRoA reports are submitted in a timely manner. Respond to USAID, DOD and GIRoA ad hoc information requests in a timely and professional manner• Provide monthly updates and submit to Country Director and Executive Director• Alert Country Director of any problems or issues immediately

  6. Security

    • Monitor security in all program areas and make changes or improvements for ROP security plans, policies and procedures as required

    Qualifications Requirements:

Experience --At least 10 years’ experience in international development and preferably experience working with USAID, experience in Agriculture or agribusiness is required; additional experience in business is a plus. Demonstrated expertise in agricultural development and host-country capacity building program management. Prior experience in designing and implementing agriculture and host country capacity building programs in Afghanistan, the region, or a conflict or post conflict country is highly desirable.

Communication -- Excellent ability to communicate effectively at every level (verbal and written), from donors, to government representatives to local Expat and national staff. Extensive experience working and managing activities and interpersonal relationships in challenging political and physical environments;

Management --Managed programs as a COP or team leader-- minimum of 2 assignments. Geographic Experience -- Multiple country experience required, Afghan experience is very important.Funders – Minimum of 5+ years’ experience working with USAID.Languages -- Fluent in English. Pashto or Dari a plus, but not required.Education – Masters’ degree or higher in an agriculture-related, international development, governance, or a related field.Travel -- Willing to travel into program areas that are considered safe for expatriates.

Compensation: Compensation is dependent upon past compensation history. ROP has a full benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, paid leave, tax deferred savings and paid holidays.


How to apply:

How to Apply: Please send a resumes and cover letter to carol@internationalink.net and include “Chief of Party for AGRED-Afghanistan” in the subject line. Finalist will be expected to provide references.

Deadline: Accepting candidates through September 4, 2013, but will review as received and until position is filled.

Afghanistan: Agricultural Policy Advisor

Organization: Altai Consulting
Country: Afghanistan
Closing date: 31 Aug 2013

JOB TITLE

Agricultural Policy Advisor

LOCATION
? Kabul, Afghanistan, with some travel to various provincial capitals as necessary

CONTRACT LENGTH
? September 15, 2013 – September 15, 2014 (12 months)

JOB DESCRIPTION
The Policy Advisor will work closely with the Director General (DG) of the Planning and Policy General Directorate at the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock (MAIL), other DGs, senior MAIL leadership, and the Agricultural Statistics and Management Information Systems (ASMIS) Directorate to advocate for, determine, and organize the demand for data within the Ministry. Moreover, the Policy Advisor will strengthen the relationships between ASMIS and General Directorates as well as create linkages with the greater agricultural community in Afghanistan to build the credibility of data disseminated by MAIL. The Policy Advisor will also spend considerable time building the technical and managerial capacity of the DG of Planning and Policy to design and implement sound policy for the use of statistics in decision making. The Policy Advisor will work within the Agricultural Data Collection and Utilization System (ADCUS) program funded by USDA and implemented by Purdue University and Altai Consulting.

Responsibilities:
? Technical and managerial development of the DG of Planning and Policy
? Build legitimacy of ASMIS and relationships with the agricultural community in Afghanistan (donor agencies, implementers, NGOs, private sector, farmers, etc.)
? Conduct a demand assessment of data internally and externally
? Design and implement sound policy for statistics use.
? Based on above, coordinate work with the Statistics Advisor to effectively implement data collection activities in 2014.
? Provide coaching and oversight as required by the DG of Planning and Policy
? Assist with the design of ASMI strategic planning for Post-ADCUS funding (sustainability and legacy of program)

QUALIFICATIONS
? Fluency in written and spoken English required. Fluency in Dari and Pashto preferred, but not required.
? Master’s Degree or considerable equivalent work experience.
? Strong background and understanding of policy design and implementation.
? Considerable experience working with senior representatives of a civil service.
? Demonstrates leadership and management abilities.
? Critical thinker and possess problem solving skills.
? Demonstrates well developed interpersonal and communication skills.
? Ability to work with minimal supervision, including prioritizing workloads to meet deadlines.
? Experience working in and understanding of Afghan culture and society preferred, but not required.
? Comfortable working with and giving presentations to diverse audiences and stakeholders in Afghanistan.
? Dedicated to the concepts of empowerment and building local capacity.
? Flexible and creative in the workplace setting. Moreover, will to adapt as new needs and opportunities arise.
? Experience with EpiData, SPSS, Excel, and PowerPoint desirable.


How to apply:

Please submit a CV and cover letter detailing your motivations to altaicareers@gmail.com .

Afghanistan: Agricultural Statistics Advisor

Organization: Altai Consulting
Country: Afghanistan
Closing date: 31 Aug 2013

JOB TITLE

Agricultural Statistics Advisor

LOCATION
? Kabul, Afghanistan, with some travel to various provincial capitals as necessary

CONTRACT LENGTH
? September 15, 2013 – September 15, 2014 (12 months)

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Advisor will work at the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock (MAIL) with the Agricultural Statistics and Management Information Systems (ASMIS) Directorate staff members dedicated to agricultural statistics to help them rationalize their objectives, organize their work, and optimize processes, thereby contributing to building their capacity towards becoming a functional statistics service. This will complement the on-going capacity building effort led by Altai Consulting.

Responsibilities:

? Continuously assess individual capacity of each ASMIS staff member.
? Determine strengths of each ASMIS staff member to organize staff into areas of specialization.
? Based on above, coordinate work with the policy advisor, the Director General of Planning and Policy and Director of ASMIS to re-organize ASMIS organogram to reflect strengths of ASMI staff.
? Design tools for, and implement group and individual case studies and training sessions for methodology and tools design, team management, EpiData training, data analysis, data cleaning, and report writing.
? Provide coaching and oversight of ASMIS staff for data collection.
? Work with ASMIS staff to institutionalize systems, mechanisms, and processes necessary for a sound and sustainable statistics service.
? Build legitimacy of ASMIS and relationships with the agricultural community in Afghanistan (donor agencies, implementers, NGOs, private sector, farmers, etc.)
? Assist ADCUS Project Director with the design of ASMI strategic planning for sustainability and legacy of program

QUALIFICATIONS
? Fluent in written and spoken Dari and English. Fluency in written and spoken Pashto preferred, but not required.
? Master’s Degree in a relevant discipline or considerable relevant work experience.
? Strong background and understanding of econometrics, statistics, and agriculture.
? Experience with EpiData, SPSS (or similar statistical packages), and Microsoft Office.
? Understanding of credible agricultural statistics services such as NASS.
? Considerable experience in educating and/or training others.
? Demonstrates well developed interpersonal and communication skills.
? Demonstrates leadership and management abilities.
? Ability to work with minimal supervision, including prioritizing workloads to meet deadlines
? Experience working in and understanding of Afghan culture and society preferred, but not required.
? Critical thinker and possess problem solving skills.
? Ability to write reports and assessments.
? Comfortable working with and giving presentations to diverse audiences and stakeholders in Afghanistan.
? Dedicated to the concepts of empowerment and building local capacity.
? Flexible and creative in the workplace setting. Moreover, willing to adapt as new needs and opportunities arise.


How to apply:

Please submit a CV and cover letter detailing your motivations to altaicareers@gmail.com .