About the Role
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Project Officer to join our team on a 6-month consultancy basis in Kano, Nigeria. In this role, you will provide critical technical and operational support to the Project Principal Investigator, driving the successful execution of initiatives focused on climate-smart agriculture, agroforestry, conservation agriculture, and seed systems. You will play a vital role in coordinating field activities, engaging with local communities and stakeholders, and ensuring impactful project delivery across assigned locations.
Key Responsibilities- Assist the Project PI in developing and executing comprehensive work plans, schedules, and strategies to ensure timely project delivery.
- Coordinate day-to-day field activities, community-level interventions, and stakeholder engagements across assigned project locations.
- Provide technical assistance for climate-smart agriculture, agroforestry, soil health, and improved crop variety seed systems.
- Conduct field assessments, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and stakeholder consultations.
- Facilitate capacity-building initiatives, including farmer trainings, Training of Trainers (ToTs), and agricultural demonstration days.
- Monitor implementation progress, collect reliable project data, and prepare detailed technical progress reports.
- Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Crop Science, Forestry, Natural Resource Management, or a related field; a Master's degree is highly desirable.
- At least 5 years of professional experience in agricultural development, climate-smart agriculture, or natural resource management.
- Demonstrated experience coordinating multi-location agricultural projects and working with diverse rural communities.
- Strong understanding of agricultural systems and rural development challenges in Northern Nigeria.
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills with proven technical reporting abilities.
- Willingness to travel extensively for field-related activities and stakeholder meetings.
- Opportunity to work with a world-renowned agricultural research-for-development organization.
- Contribute directly to improving food security, sustainable livelihoods, and climate resilience in Nigeria.
- Gain valuable hands-on experience managing high-impact regional agricultural and environmental projects.