Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Bindura
- Category: Agriculture
- Closing Date: 2026-07-31
Key Responsibilities
- Herd goats to grazing pastures.
- Provide clean drinking water.
- Monitor animal health and behaviour.
- Clean and maintain kraals.
- Assist with supplementary feeding and basic treatments or vaccinations.
- Report livestock issues to the Farm Supervisor.
- Count cattle during daily handover and takeover.
- Release cattle into paddocks and pastures.
- Monitor livestock to prevent straying or crop damage.
- Assist with dipping, dehorning and castration.
- Monitor animal health and report concerns.
- Observe pregnant animals during calving and report to the supervisor.
- Monitor compliance with procurement legislation and institutional policies.
- Review procurement plans, bidding documents, evaluations and contract awards.
- Ensure procurement activities comply with the Electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) system.
- Conduct procurement compliance reviews.
- Prepare compliance reports and recommend corrective actions.
- Maintain procurement records for audit purposes.
- Train staff on procurement legislation and best practices.
- Monitor contract implementation.
- Liaise with auditors and regulatory authorities.
- Promote transparency, accountability and value for money.
- Check and record mortalities.
- Carry out notching and tooth cutting.
- Provide feed and water.
- Supervise piglet safety.
- Maintain pig and feed records.
- Supervise field staff.
- Oversee irrigation activities.
- Supervise harvesting operations.
- Land preparation.
- Planting, weeding, spraying and ridging.
- Harvesting and loading.
- Perform additional duties assigned by the Foreman or Farm Manager.
- Operate, monitor and maintain irrigation systems.
- Conduct daily inspections of pivot towers, gearboxes, sprinklers, pumps, pressure gauges and electrical panels.
- Supervise goat feeding, grazing, watering and kraal management.
- Oversee animal health, dipping, vaccination and treatments.
- Supervise maintenance of kraals, fences and feeding facilities.
- Ensure biosecurity and hygiene.
- Maintain livestock records.
- Assist with supervision of field and horticultural operations.
- Allocate work to general hands.
- Supervise planting and field activities.
- Maintain daily operational records.
- Support irrigation and chemical handling activities.
- Crop Production: Assist with land preparation and planting.
- Conduct seed germination tests.
- Monitor weeds, pests and diseases.
- Assist with fertilizer and crop protection applications.
- Support irrigation management.
- Participate in harvesting, grading and packaging.
- Livestock Management: Feed and water livestock.
- Monitor animal health.
- Assist with cleaning, vaccinations, deworming and tagging.
- Maintain livestock production records.
- Carry out duties assigned by supervisors.
Requirements
- Minimum of three (3) Ordinary Level passes.
- 6-12 months’ experience working with goats.
- Knowledge of general animal behaviour.
- Three (3) Ordinary Level passes.
- Five (5) months’ on-the-job experience.
- Communication skills.
- Animal handling skills.
- Knowledge of animal behaviour.
- Animal health monitoring.
- BCom (Hons) in Purchasing and Supply, BSc (Hons) Supply Chain Management or equivalent.
- CIPS/ZIPS membership is an added advantage.
- Minimum three (3) years’ relevant procurement experience.
- Sound knowledge of the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act and e-GP systems.
- High integrity and professionalism.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent report writing and communication skills.
- Good planning and organizational abilities.
- 3-6 months’ relevant experience.
- Pig handling skills.
- Basic scouting courses.
- Two (2) years’ experience as a Foreman.
- Knowledge of maize, soyabeans, sorghum, wheat, horticultural and fodder crops.
- Strong communication skills.
- Team leadership.
- Willingness to learn and develop.
- Basic crop production knowledge.
- Two (2) years’ experience.
- Ability to read and write.
- Teamwork.
- Willingness to develop new skills.
- Two (2) years’ work experience.
- Basic knowledge of pivot irrigation systems.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Professionalism.
- Attention to detail.
- Ability to work in a team.
- Three (3) months’ relevant experience.
- Three (3) years’ work experience.
- Studying towards a Bachelor’s Degree, Diploma, Certificate or another agriculture-related qualification.
- Submit an application letter, CV and industrial attachment letter from the institution.
- Good written and verbal communication.
- Good organizational and time management skills.
- Willingness to learn.
How to Apply
About the Company
Bindura University of Science Education (BUSE) Farm Trust serves as the vital agricultural arm of BUSE, operating strategically in Bindura, Zimbabwe. It is dedicated to fostering hands-on practical training for students enrolled in agricultural sciences, bridging academic knowledge with real-world farming practices. The Trust also conducts crucial research, driving innovation in crop and livestock production tailored to Zimbabwean conditions. Furthermore, it operates as a commercial entity, contributing to food security and generating revenue for the university's development through sustainable farming ventures. This integrated approach ensures the Trust plays a significant role in Zimbabwe's agricultural advancement and human capital development.
Cultivating agricultural innovation and practical education for Zimbabwe's future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and educational background required for these attachment opportunities at BUSE Farm Trust?
Candidates are usually students pursuing diplomas or degrees in agriculture, animal science, horticulture, supply chain management, or related industrial fields. A strong academic record and a formal letter of recommendation from their institution are commonly expected for attachment placements.
What kind of day-to-day tasks and responsibilities can an attachment student expect in these roles?
You will likely assist with practical farm operations such as crop management, livestock care, or equipment maintenance. Additionally, tasks might involve participating in procurement processes like inventory management and supplier liaison, or applying industrial principles in agro-processing.
What is the typical work culture and what are the expectations for attachment students on a Zimbabwean farm or industrial setting?
Expect a hands-on, often physically demanding environment that values punctuality, diligence, and a strong willingness to learn. Teamwork, respect for supervisors, and adaptability to varying conditions are highly regarded traits in Zimbabwean agricultural workplaces.
What realistic career progression or growth paths can an attachment student expect after completing this program?
Successful completion provides a strong foundation for entry-level positions in commercial farming, agricultural extension services, or supply chain roles within agro-industries. This experience significantly enhances your professional profile, making you more competitive for future graduate opportunities in Zimbabwe's agricultural sector.
Will attachment students typically receive any benefits like leave, medical aid, or a stipend during their tenure?
Attachment programs primarily focus on providing practical experience and may not include extensive benefits comparable to full-time employment. However, some host organizations in Zimbabwe might offer a modest stipend to help cover transport or basic expenses, which varies greatly.
How should one apply for these attachment opportunities, and what do employers in Zimbabwe typically look for in applicants?
Applications usually require a comprehensive CV, a compelling cover letter, and an official letter of attachment request from your university. Zimbabwean employers typically seek candidates who demonstrate enthusiasm, a practical mindset, and a genuine interest in contributing to the agricultural sector.