Farmer Facilitation Associate x2

Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to help people and nature thrive together.

The “Ecosystem-Based Adaptation and Mitigation in Botswana’s Communal Rangelands” Project funded by Green Climate Fund (GCF) aims to utilize collective management of livestock and ecosystems to restore Botswana’s communal rangelands, increasing the climate resilience of vulnerable populations and reducing GHG emissions. Over 8 years, the project will undertake activities in 104 villages in the Project Areas: Ngamiland, Kgalagadi and Bobirwa geographic areas of Botswana to improve management of 4.6 million hectares of rangelands. The day-to-day activities of the Project are implemented in each of the three Project Areas. Administratively, the project areas cover the following districts: Okavango and North-West Districts (Ngamiland Area); Hukuntsi, Tsabong and Mabutsane Districts (Kgalagadi Area); and Bobirwa District (Bobirwa Area).

POSITION SUMMARY - This position is based in Semolale, Bobirwa/ Gumare, Ngamiland - Botswana

The Farmers Facilitation Associate (FFA) will work closely with and report to the Farmer Facilitation Lead to support and facilitate farmer and community liaison and mobilization for project participation. Additionally, the FFA will assist in implementing project guidelines and supervision while ensuring effective pasture and livestock management, monitoring and evaluation, reporting, and maintenance of project equipment within the specified cluster.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Farmer and Community Liaison: Collaborate with the Lanscape Manager and Farmer Facilitation Lead to establish and maintain productive relationships with farmers and communities involved in the project. Facilitate effective communication and engagement to ensure their participation and adherence to project guidelines.
• Project Implementation: Assist the Area Manager in overseeing the activities of the Farmer Facilitation Teams (FFT) operating within grazing areas. Support FFT in executing pasture management, livestock management, monitoring and evaluation of tasks, as per project guidelines.
• Equipment Management: Ensure that all project operational equipment within project sites/villages is properly managed, maintained, and kept in good working order. Coordinate with relevant stakeholders to address any equipment issues or repairs promptly.
• Site Visits and Coordination: Facilitate Landscape Manager in coordinating site visits by project staff and associated stakeholders. Assist in arranging logistics, preparing necessary documentation, and ensuring smooth interactions between project representatives and participating communities.
• Reporting and Documentation: lead in collecting data, maintaining records, and preparing accurate reports related to farmer and community engagement, pasture and livestock management, and project activities. Ensure timely submission of reports to the Landscape Manager.
• Stakeholder Relationships: Foster positive relationships with participating communities, local authorities, and other relevant stakeholders. Promote a good working relationship, address concerns, and act as a bridge between the project and the community.
• General: Participate in project sites/Cluster, Project Area/District, and/or national activities, meetings, or training events as directed by the Area Manager.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Working outside normal working hours.
• Ability to travel frequently in the remote areas within the Project Area.
• Ability to work with local partners.
• High adaptability to difficult conditions
• Supporting the staff in the implementation of other activities outside of its main responsibilities if needed.
• Guidance on specific cluster villages will be shared during the interview process
  

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Up to 2 years of related work experience, preferably in the conservation, NGO, or advocacy arena
• Knowledge of farming practices, livestock management, and rural development initiatives.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with farmers and community members.
• Strong organizational and coordination abilities to manage multiple tasks and prioritize responsibilities.
• Detail-oriented and able to prioritize, manage, and complete tasks and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in data collection, reporting, and documentation.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Familiarity with project management principles and guidelines is preferred.

Preferred

• Certificate in agriculture, rural development, or a related field, or commensurate field-based experience.
• A bachelor’s degree and experience in extension office work will be an added advantage.
• Work experience and existing networks in agriculture, NGOs, community development, local authorities, or government at the district level.
• Fluency in local languages and knowledge of the local culture and customs are advantageous.
• Experience in sustainable production and relationships with the private sector.
• Ability to function well in a multicultural, diverse, and fast-paced work team environment.
• Proven ability to work with and manage teams.
• Supporting the staff in the implementation of other activities outside of its main responsibilities.

To apply for this position, please submit a resume and cover letter.

Application Deadline: June 07, 2025 (11:49 PM EST)

See all Conservation International Career Opportunities HERE

Conservation International is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals. We believe in hiring based on merit and qualifications, ensuring a fair and inclusive hiring process for everyone.