The Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve (GCBR) is a 3.2-million-hectare area that has been designated by UNESCO as a place of megadiversity. As an action orientated non-profit company, the GCBR is driven to protect, restore and effectively manage the ecosystems within its domain. This is a wonderful opportunity for an equity candidate to join a small team of passionate individuals by bringing a collaborative approach to sustainable biodiversity conservation practices to smallholder farming communities across the GCBR domain.
JOB DETAILS
Job title: Smallholder Farmer Extension Officer
Location: GCBR Office – Riversdale, Western Cape
Employment type: Full-time
Duration: Fixed term contract, effective 1 July 2024 – 31 December 2025
Remuneration: R20 000 per month
Reports to: Corridors and Restoration Programme Manager
Purpose of position: Educate and empower smallholder farmers in adopting sustainable agricultural practices that enables positive and lasting impacts on environmental landscapes, farmer livelihoods and the well-being of local communities within the GCBR region.
Qualifications: Relevantdiploma or degree in any of the following fields is advantageous: environmental science / ecology / conservation / agriculture or any other related field.
Languages: English and Afrikaans
Other requirements: Valid driver’s license and own reliable vehicle
KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS
- Organise focus group discussions and administer surveys to assess farmers’ knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding conservation and ecological agriculture, using the findings to inform programme planning and resource allocation.
- Forge partnerships with local agricultural extension services, non-profit organisations, government agencies and other stakeholders to leverage resources, share best practices and enhance support for smallholder farmers.
- Develop and deliver customised training sessions and workshops for smallholder farmers on topics such as soil health, agroforestry, water conservation and integrated pest management.
- Facilitate participatory planning sessions with smallholder farmers to co-design conservation and ecological agriculture plans tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
- Lead the implementation of pilot projects in collaboration with smallholder farmers, overseeing activities such as land preparation, planting, maintenance and monitoring to ensure project objectives are met.
- Collect and analyse data on key performance indicators, including adoption rates of conservation and ecological agriculture practices, changes in crop yields and biodiversity, and farmer satisfaction levels.
- Assess the impact of conservation and ecological agriculture interventions on smallholder farmers’ livelihoods, resilience, and environmental sustainability, using both qualitative and quantitative methods.
- Prepare monthly progress reports documenting activities, achievements, challenges and lessons learned.
EXPERIENCE, SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES
- At least 2-3 years’ experience in any or all of the following: organisational structures, stakeholder engagement (community and municipal), agricultural processes, municipal by-laws, community structures, smallholder farming practices, business development and project management.
- Skilled proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Must demonstrate a genuine passion for people, environmental conservation and community well-being.
- Must live the GCBR values of integrity, innovation, collaboration and sustainability.
Email applications to: melissa@campoconsulting.co.za
Closing date: Wednesday, 22nd May 2024
The GCBR is committed to upholding the principles outlined in the Employment Equity Act. Please consider your application as unsuccessful if you have not heard from us within 4 weeks of applying. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted