The FAO country office in Zimbabwe supports government efforts to achieve food security, reduce hunger and malnutrition, develop the agricultural sector, and sustainably manage environmental and natural resources.
FAO Zimbabwe is partnering with UNDP and the Government of Zimbabwe to implement the Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF II), supported by the European Union and the Government of Ireland.
The programme focuses on building resilience in vulnerable rural communities, sustainable natural resources management, climate action, food and nutrition security, and reducing the impact of natural disasters.
Climate Smart Agriculture (Crops) Specialist – FAO Zimbabwe
The Climate Smart Agriculture (Crops) Specialist will provide enhanced technical support to consortium partners and government staff at field level to ensure effective implementation of the Farmer Field School (FFS) methodology.
Job Summary
- Employer: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Agriculture
- Closing Date: 2026-09-22
Key Responsibilities
- Provide guidance and support in the identification of needs, design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of FAO Zimbabwe crops programmes.
- Collect and analyse data to determine and demonstrate the impact of Farmer Field Schools on productivity changes.
- Expand and strengthen climate-smart agriculture through conservation agriculture and other GAP-related technologies, including post-harvesting management.
- Develop training and extension materials and provide hands-on training and backstopping to extension services.
- Facilitate and implement on-farm and on-station crops demonstrations and trials through Farmer Field Schools.
- Develop crops-related pamphlets, fliers and other training and extension materials.
- Work closely with government departments, implementing partners, donors, private sector organisations, agricultural colleges, universities, CGIAR centres and other stakeholders.
- Coordinate crops training and extension programmes for consortium partners and government extension staff.
- Participate in large and complex field missions and provide guidance to consultants, government officials and other parties.
- Contribute to the production of project progress reports in line with donor requirements and guidelines.
- Perform other related duties as required.
Requirements
- Advanced university degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Climate Smart Agriculture, Soil Science, Agricultural Extension, Environment and Natural Resources Management or a related field.
- Working knowledge of English at Level C.
- At least five years of progressively responsible experience in agriculture, project coordination and/or management.
- Must be a national of Zimbabwe.
- Relevant experience in agriculture, including agronomy, climate-smart agriculture and extension, as well as project coordination or management.
- Ability to technically supervise, manage and support field activities.
- Knowledge of FAO and experience with FAO tools and procedures for project implementation, monitoring and reporting is an asset.
- Experience working across humanitarian, development and normative contexts.
- Good analytical and writing skills.
- Good communication and advocacy skills.
- Knowledge of local languages spoken in Zimbabwe is an asset.
- Previous experience working with the UN or international organisations in similar positions is an added advantage.
How to Apply
About the Company
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialised UN agency that has operated in Zimbabwe since 1981, with its country office located in Harare. In Zimbabwe, FAO works alongside the Government of Zimbabwe, farmers, and development partners to strengthen food security, promote sustainable agriculture, and build resilience against climate shocks such as drought. Its programmes cover areas including crop and livestock production, fisheries, forestry, land and water management, and emergency response to food crises. FAO Zimbabwe also supports national policy development and provides technical assistance to smallholder farmers across the country's rural provinces.
Working for a world free of hunger and malnutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for this role?
Candidates usually need an advanced degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, or Environmental Science. Professional certifications in climate-smart techniques or experience with UN-led agricultural projects are highly valued.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a CSA Specialist in Zimbabwe?
You will likely design crop diversification strategies and provide technical support to smallholder farmers across various provinces. Responsibilities also include monitoring climate data and reporting on food security outcomes.
What is the work culture and expectation for international organizations in Zimbabwe?
The culture emphasizes multicultural collaboration and strict adherence to global reporting standards. You are expected to balance office-based strategic planning with frequent field visits to rural farming communities.
What are the typical benefits associated with this type of position?
Benefits generally include comprehensive medical insurance, generous annual leave, and a structured pension scheme. Some roles may also provide travel allowances for field assignments within the country.
How should I apply and what do employers look for in Zimbabwean candidates?
Apply through the official FAO careers portal with a tailored CV and a strong cover letter. Employers prioritize candidates who demonstrate a deep understanding of Zimbabwe's specific agro-ecological zones and local farming challenges.
What are the realistic career progression paths for this role?
Specialists can progress into senior program management or regional advisory roles within the UN system. Many also transition into high-level consultancy for government ministries or international NGOs.
