Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Agriculture
- Closing Date: 2026-09-01
Key Responsibilities
- Ability to build and work within private sector, public sector and civil society partnerships.
- Proven ability to ride a motorbike.
- Ability to train adult learners.
- Strong organisational, planning, interpersonal, facilitation and networking skills.
- Demonstrates professionalism, integrity and commitment to the organisation’s mission and values.
- Works effectively to meet deadlines.
Requirements
- At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in agriculture, biodiversity, agroecology, community development, livelihoods programming or a related field.
- Demonstrable experience working directly with smallholder farmers and rural communities.
- Practical experience in horticulture production and small livestock production, particularly traditional chickens and goats.
- Experience in project implementation, field monitoring, data collection and reporting.
- Experience in stakeholder engagement and working with government, private sector and civil society partners
How to Apply
About the Company
The Zimbabwe Women's Bureau (ZWB) is a Zimbabwean non-governmental organization (NGO) established in 1978. Founded by black Rhodesian academics, activists, and businesswomen to raise awareness among women, it has evolved into a national organization. Its programs focus on livelihoods, sustainable agriculture, climate change, and social justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a Field Officer role in Gutu, Zimbabwe?
A minimum of a Diploma or Degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Extension, or a related field is usually required. Some employers may accept relevant experience in lieu of formal qualifications, especially if combined with certification from the Zimbabwe National Farmers’ Union (ZNFU) or training from the Department of Agricultural Technical and Extension Services (AGRITEX). Prior participation in government or NGO-led agricultural programmes in Masvingo Province is often viewed favourably.
What does a typical day look like for a Field Officer based in Gutu?
Field Officers spend most of their time visiting smallholder farmers across Gutu’s communal lands and resettlement areas to demonstrate climate-smart practices, monitor crop health, and support input distribution. They also attend weekly AGRITEX-led cluster meetings, maintain field records using paper-based or mobile tools (e.g., CommCare), and liaise with local leadership such as village heads and ward development committees.
How does workplace culture and expectations differ for Field Officers in rural Zimbabwe compared to urban roles?
Respect for local leadership structures, punctuality for community meetings, and fluency in Shona (and ideally ChiKaranga) are essential for credibility and effective engagement. Employers expect adaptability to limited infrastructure — including irregular transport, electricity outages, and mobile network gaps — and value humility, patience, and relationship-building over rigid adherence to office hours.
What career progression opportunities exist for Field Officers in Zimbabwe’s agriculture sector?
With 3–5 years’ experience, officers often advance to Senior Field Officer, Area Coordinator, or Training Officer roles within NGOs, AGRITEX, or agribusinesses like Seed Co or Cairns. Further growth may include specialisation in value chain development, climate resilience programming, or transitioning into policy support roles with the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture and Rural Development — often supported by short courses from UZ or Chinhoyi University.
What benefits are commonly offered to Field Officers employed by reputable organisations in Zimbabwe?
Most established employers provide at least 21 days annual leave, basic medical aid coverage (often through companies like NEL or Zimnat), and enrolment in the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) pension scheme. Some NGOs and donor-funded projects also offer housing allowances, transport support, and periodic field allowances — though these vary significantly by employer and funding cycle.
How should I apply for a Field Officer position in Gutu, and what do employers specifically look for in candidates?
Applications are typically submitted via email or physical drop-off to regional offices in Gutu or Masvingo, often requiring a CV, certified academic certificates, and two professional references — one preferably from a local agricultural leader or extension officer. Employers prioritise demonstrated experience working directly with smallholder farmers in Masvingo Province, evidence of problem-solving in resource-constrained settings, and alignment with values like gender inclusion and sustainable land management.