Extension Specialist (SOG/ST 5) - Crop & Plant Protection Unit

JOB PURPOSE

Under the direct supervision of the Operations Manager (SOG/ST 6), the Extension Specialist (SOG/ST 5) is responsible to undertake managing the day-to-day farm operations aimed at facilitating viable research and commercial farming in accordance with the operational plans for the Crop & Plant Protection Units at the Bodles Research Station.



KEY OUTPUTS

• Farm plan implemented
• Crop irrigation needs met in a timely manner
• Land preparation needs met in a timely manner
• Crop Production targets met
• Farm operations in sync with operations manual
• Farm operations within budget
• Reports prepared
• Support Project proposal development and implementation plans developed
• Support Projects executed
• Support Project findings documentation
• Support dissemination of research findings
• Support development of work plans
• Supervise on farm Agronomy related activities supervised
• Competent and productive staff
• Support establishment of field trial plots

KEY RESPONSIBILITY AREAS

• Prepares reports
• Prepares work programmes
• Prepares reports for projects undertaken
• Plans and executes projects
• Plans, organizes and implements field trials to improve the growth and quality of crops
• Liaises with external research organizations in designing and implementing collaborative projects
• Disseminates research findings and best agricultural practices to extension staff and farmers
• Carries out in depth literature review for new technology and improved methods for transfer to farmers

Technical/Professional Responsibilities

• Implements research activities
• Develops production practices and methods for different ecological zones
• Presents research findings
• Participates in training and field days on and off station
• Assist in planning the Unit weekly work programmes
• Write reports

Human Resources Responsibilities

• Monitors and evaluates the performance of direct reports, prepares performance appraisals and recommend and/or initiates corrective action where necessary to improve performance and/or attaining established personal and/or organizational goals.
• Participates in the recruitment of staff for the Division/Unit and recommends transfer, promotion, termination and leave in accordance with established human resource policies and procedures.
• In collaboration with the Human Resource Division, develops and implements a succession planning programme for the Division/Unit to facilitate continuity and the availability of required skills and competencies to meet the needs of the Division.
• Provides leadership and guidance to direct reports through effective planning, delegation, communication, training, mentoring and coaching.
• Ensures the welfare and developmental needs of staff in the Division/Unit are clearly identified and addressed.
• Establishes and maintains a system that fosters a culture of teamwork, employee empowerment and commitment to the Division’s and organization’s goals.

Other responsibilities

• Acts as rapporteur at meetings as directed
• Represents the organization at meetings and conferences
• Performs any other related functions assigned from time to time

PERFORMANCE STANDARD

• Comprehensive Reports submitted within established time frame
• Project proposals produced and implemented within agreed time frames to required standards
• Research findings documented according to required standards and in agreed time frames
• Research findings disseminated in agreed time frame
• Practical and achievable work plans developed in agreed time frames
• Research field trials established using Good Agricultural Practices (GAD) within agreed timeframes

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

CORE

• Strong leadership and management skills
• Good interpersonal skills
• Good people management skills
• Excellent oral communication skills
• Excellent written communication skills
• Strong customer quality focus skills
• Good problem solving and decision-making skills
• Good conflict management skills

Technical

• Sound knowledge of agronomy
• Sound knowledge of plant and soil methodologies
• Sound knowledge of research procedures
• Project management/proposal writing skills
• Knowledge of the operations of Government / Knowledge of the Ministry’s policies and procedures
• Proficiency in the use of relevant computer applications

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE

• A.Sc. in Agricultural Science or Plant Science from CASE, UWI or similar institutions
• Three (3) year experience in Agronomy, Plant Production, Plant Physiology and Protection or related field

SPECIAL CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE JOB

• Exposure to hazardous chemicals

AUTHORITY

• Sign off on pay bill
• Make recommendations to farmers and extension officers

Please note that we thank all for responding, but only short-listed applicants will be contacted.