Agronomist

What we do

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is an impartial, neutral and independent organization whose exclusively humanitarian mission is to protect the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence and to provide them with assistance. The ICRC also endeavors to prevent suffering by promoting and strengthening humanitarian law and universal humanitarian principles. Established in 1863, the ICRC is at the origin of the Geneva Conventions and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Please visit for more information.

Purpose

The ICRC ECOSEC Department is looking for an Agronomist to be based in its Myitkyina office. Under the supervision of the EcoSec Delegate, the Agronomist plans, implements, and monitors agricultural activities within the Myitkyina Area of Responsibility in line with EcoSec objectives, operational priorities and guidelines. The position provides technical support for Agro-related interventions aimed at strengthening the food production capacities and resilience of conflict-affected households in Kachin State.

Accountabilities & functional responsibilities

• Act as a main focal point for Agro related interventions (monsoon paddy assistance, winter vegetable assistance, Agro trainings, etc.)
• Develop and maintain contact with authorities at municipal/regional level, local/regional RC Conduct agricultural needs, and market assessments to identify priorities and intervention opportunities with the support of EcoSec Delegate, YAN agronomist and Analyse & Evidence team using the EcoSec tools approved.
• Design and implement the distribution of agricultural inputs (or Agro cash) to eligible communities in Myitkyina Sub Delegation Area of Responsability.
• Provide technical inputs for the procurement and delivery of agricultural assistance, including the definition of technical specifications, quantities, quality standards, tool selection, and Bills of Quantities (BoQs) for logistic purposes, ensuring the timely acquisition of appropriate and quality agricultural inputs in line with program objectives and operational requirements.
• Meet with Department of Agriculture (DoA) and relevant technical counterparts that support or/and involved in Agro program.
• Prepare a clear action plan for both monsoon /winter season and mobilizes the team for the distributions.
• Identify potential farmers to attend to agricultural trainings facilitating by the ICRC but also DoA.
• Prepare all relevant agreements with farmer groups (Partnership Agreements, farmers association statutes) with the support of the EcoSec delegate/ Yan Agronomist.
• Supervise the implementation and monitoring of the assistance provided to farmer groups or associations as per agreed and described on the agreement signed between the ICRC and farmer groups or associations. 
• Support the implementation (assessment, beneficiary selection, registration, distribution, monitoring & evaluation) of other EcoSec programs such as cash for emergency response (Non-Food Items/Cash), livelihood support (Conditional Cash Grant, Micro-Economic Initiative) and structural support.

Desired profile and skills

• Committed to support population affected by the conflict and work in Myitkyina (Kachin State.)
• Strongly motivated by humanitarian work, and proactive attitude.
• Effective communication, networking and listening skills.
• People and genuine sense of empathy.
• Autonomous and adaptable, with ability to interact collaboratively in a multidisciplinary and multicultural team.
• Excellent writing and summarizing skills, and good knowledge of digital tools.
• Robust organizational and prioritization capacities.
• Capacity to exercise discretion.
• Capacity to work under pressure and in a remote environment.
• Good understanding of the dynamic affecting Myanmar, and specifically Kachin State, and its humanitarian consequences.

What we offer

• A unique and rewarding opportunity to help the victims of violence in a fast-paced environment.
• Initial training and on-boarding organized
• A 12-month extendable contract
• A competitive compensation package including medical coverage and transportation allowances.
• A training opportunity to develop and strengthen the quality of the services provided to our beneficiaries as well as to support our staff members’ professional and personal development.

Our values

• At the ICRC, we value impact, collaboration, respect, and compassion. We seek candidates who demonstrate behaviors based on these shared values. For more information on the ICRC values, please visit this

Reports to (role)

EcoSec Delegate.

People management responsibilities

No

Certifications / Education required

• University degree in Agronomy, Veterinary Science, Nutrition, Economics, or another relevant field. A Master’s degree and/or relevant qualification in programme or project management is an asset.
• Minimum of five (5) years of relevant professional experience in agriculture, livelihoods, early recovery, humanitarian programming, and/or project management.1-2 Previous ICRC or another humanitarian agency experience desired.
• Minimum of five (5) years of relevant professional experience in agriculture, livelihoods, early recovery, humanitarian programming, and/or project management.
• Demonstrated experience in the design, implementation, monitoring and/or coordination of agricultural and livelihood-related programs is an asset.
• Computer proficiency, good command of EcoSec specialized software, and demonstrated ability to use relevant programme-specific software, databases and digital tools, including mobile data collection platforms such as Device Magic.
• Fluent English (both written and oral), speaks Burmese and any other local languages would be an asset.
• Excellent communication skills (written and oral) and Good analytical skills with creative thinking
• Demonstrated flexibility and adaptability, with the ability to work effectively in a changing and complex operational environment.
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and contribute positively to a team environment.