Job Summary
- Employer: American Farmland Trust
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Environmental Science
- Salary: $90,000 – $110,000 per year
- Closing Date: 2026-09-27
Key Responsibilities
- Lead applied research, literature reviews, technical reviews, data analysis, modelling, life cycle analysis and impact-oriented program design and implementation.
- Provide technical leadership for fundraising efforts relating to biochar and soil health.
- Collaborate across teams to compile, analyse and publish project data and results.
- Lead and collaborate on science translation activities that turn research findings, producer innovations and demonstration results into technical resources.
- Develop and support decision-support tools, guides, factsheets, manuals, peer-reviewed publications, curricula, trainings and educational resources.
- Integrate scientific findings and social, economic and environmental programme evaluation results to strengthen producer, advisor, mentor and peer-learning networks.
- Address adoption needs across soil health practices in annual and perennial systems, high-disturbance systems and other agricultural systems across varied agroecological zones.
- Contribute scientific leadership to Advanced Soil Health Training, Growing with Biochar Training, peer-learning networks, mentor programmes, livestock and grazing training and other capacity-building efforts.
- Collaborate on impact measurement, evaluation and learning systems assessing adoption, persistence, environmental, economic and network outcomes.
- Provide scientific leadership on emerging areas including biochar, PFAS, climate resilience, soil health systems and ecosystem services.
- Support fundraising through compelling proposals and pitches and cultivation of funder relationships, with potential to serve as Principal Investigator on future projects.
Requirements
- Significant scientific, technical and applied on-farm expertise in soil health, soil function and interactions among production systems, soils, climatic conditions and management.
- Experience adapting practices to site-specific conditions across diverse agricultural production systems.
- Familiarity with soil systems modelling and microbial, ecological and other soil science processes.
- Advanced understanding of soil health management systems implementation, biochar opportunities and challenges, environmental co-benefits, climate interactions and technical barriers to producer adoption and success.
- Experience developing and applying research-based models, tools, decision-support resources and technical guidance.
- Demonstrated success conducting independent research and complex technical tasks and quantitative analyses of agronomic or ecological datasets using R, SAS or a comparable statistical programming language .
- Proficiency in literature review, scientific information synthesis and evaluation of emerging soil health research, technologies and producer innovations.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for interdisciplinary and inter-organisational collaboration.
- Demonstrated success in grant writing, fundraising and achieving peer, leadership or donor buy-in for critical projects.
Salary
$90,000 – $110,000 per year
How to Apply
REF Code: null | Vacancy Circular No: null | Job Code: null
About the Company
American Farmland Trust (AFT) is a national non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C dedicated to protecting farmland, the promotion of environmentally sound farming practices, and the support of farmers and ranchers across the United States. Founded in 1980 by a coalition of farmers and conservationists, AFT was one of the nation's first agricultural land trusts and remains the only one with a national scope. Its work spans policy advocacy, land conservation, and technical assistance, with regional offices supporting local efforts.
Website: https://farmland.org/staff/nicole-gwishiri/
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications are typically required for a Senior Climate & Soil Health Scientist role in Zimbabwe?
A Master's degree in Environmental Science, Soil Science, Agriculture, or a related field is typically required. Relevant certifications such as GIS or remote sensing are also desirable. A PhD may be preferred by some employers.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Senior Climate & Soil Health Scientist in Zimbabwe?
Day-to-day responsibilities include designing and implementing climate and soil health projects, conducting field research, analyzing data, and developing reports and policy briefs. They also collaborate with stakeholders, including farmers, government officials, and NGOs. Additionally, they may be involved in training and capacity-building activities.
What is the local work culture and expectations for this role in Zimbabwe?
In Zimbabwe, work culture emphasizes respect for hierarchy and teamwork. Employers expect Senior Climate & Soil Health Scientists to have strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Flexibility and adaptability are also essential in this role.
What are the typical benefits offered for this role in Zimbabwe?
Typical benefits for this role may include medical aid, pension schemes, and annual leave. Some employers may also offer additional benefits such as study leave, flexible working hours, or opportunities for professional development. Benefits vary by employer and experience.
How do I apply for a Senior Climate & Soil Health Scientist role in Zimbabwe and what do employers look for?
To apply, submit a tailored CV and cover letter highlighting relevant experience and qualifications. Employers in Zimbabwe look for candidates with strong technical skills, experience in climate and soil health, and a demonstrated commitment to sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. A strong network and previous work experience in the sector are also advantageous.
What are the realistic career progression and growth paths for a Senior Climate & Soil Health Scientist in Zimbabwe?
Career progression may involve moving into leadership or management roles, such as team lead or project manager. Alternatively, Senior Climate & Soil Health Scientists may choose to specialize in a particular area, such as climate change mitigation or soil conservation, or pursue academic or research roles. Opportunities for growth depend on individual goals and employer needs.
