Jobs at World Vision Kenya

World Vision Kenya is a leading non-governmental Christian humanitarian, relief and development organization with projects in most parts of Kenya. We wish to urgently recruit highly competent, proactive and self-driven persons to fill the following positions within our organization (All to be based in Turkana South District)

1. Irrigation Technician
Purpose of the Position:
In partnership with the Ministry of Water and Irrigation and the Kainuk community, lead the design, Implementation, capacity building, and monitoring processes for irrigation works in the Kainuk Irrigation Scheme.

Major Responsibilities
Network and collaborate with Government line ministries in the design, implementation, and monitoring of irrigation and community capacity building interventions within Kainuk.
Spearhead the design of irrigation works for the Kainuk Irrigation Project.
Provide technical leadership in the implementation of irrigation works for the Kainuk Irrigation Project.
Support capacity building interventions in irrigation farming for farmers involved in the Kainuk Project.
Train farmers on agronomic practices for increased food crop production.
Report on the progress of the project on a regular basis (Weekly, monthly, semi annually) to the Irrigation Engineer/Project Coordinator.
Participate in organizational meetings as required.

Key Competencies/Attributes:
At least a diploma in agriculture or water engineering from a reputable institution.
At least three years experience in agricultural irrigation works.
Strong analytical and writing skills;
Understanding of USAID/IOFDA guidelines for grant projects
Adherence to tight donor and reporting guidelines
High Interpersonal skills


2. Livestock Production Officer

Purpose of the Position:
To plan, implement, monitor and document all the livestock production and extension activities within the area of operation as per the project proposal. Facilitate necessary training, follow-up, support and guidance to the pastoralists and agro-pastoralists in the project area on all the planned activities.

Major Responsibilities
Be in-charge of all the livestock production and extension activities for the Kainuk Food Security Project in the area where it will be implemented;
Facilitate introduction of quality studs in order to promote cross-breeding with the local breeds;
Facilitate trainings for Community Based Animal Health Workers (CBAHW), Animal Health Service Providers and beneficiaries on the various recommended animal husbandry practices, animal health, disaster preparedness and mitigation and Local Capacities for Peace (LCP);
Support livestock farmers undertake improved livestock rearing practices, routine vaccinations and improvement of breeds;
Facilitate annual livestock vaccination campaigns;
Facilitate rehabilitation of water pans and re-afforestation around the water points;
Support rehabilitation of livestock marketing infrastructures and establishment of livestock market linkages;
Facilitate peace building initiatives and activities
Support conflict management efforts

Key Competencies/Attributes:
At least a Diploma in Animal Production from a recognized College of Agriculture with At least five years experience as a Livestock Production or Extension Officer.
Good understanding and experience of different extension systems.
Must be computer literate and be able to ride a motorbike with a valid motorbike driving license;
Experience working with NGOs and knowledge of the local language will be an added advantage.

3. Agribusiness Extension Officer

Purpose of the Position:
To plan, implement, monitor and document all the agricultural extension and agribusiness activities within the area of operations as stated in the Project Design documents.Major Responsibilities
Train the selected members in the Farmer Field Schools on the various recommended agronomic practices for improved farming with a special focus on the commercialization of agriculture
Support the promotion of entrepreneurship skills among farmers through the formation of local economic development groups
Support the creation of interest in opportunities for business creation or expansion within communities of Kainuk
Build capacity and provide guidance to the trained farmers to effectively support and mentor communities in business skills, connections to local marketing channels/networks, and create opportunities to more lucrative markets
Create linkages/networks with financial institutions and/or other advisory bodies that can assist in stimulating or advancing farmer support services
Conduct frequent surveys on emerging opportunities that farmers can exploit to advance their livelihoods
Compile frequent progress reports
Develop and maintain a comprehensive data base of local networks and service providers that can assist farmers achieve sustainable development

Key Competencies/Attributes:
A first degree in an agricultural related discipline – Agribusiness Management, Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Education and Extension and/or any other related courses/disciplines.
Relevant experience in working with farmers especially on the area of marketing, food production and agribusiness.
Practical business knowledge with an emphasis on agricultural marketing and agribusiness management.
Practical skills in research, monitoring and evaluation, training of trainers and report writing.
Must have a good understanding of the different systems of extension delivery.

All application letters and detailed CVs together with names of three referees, one of whom must be a church leader/priest/pastor, should reach the undersigned not later than April 7, 2009.

Indicate clearly on the envelope or on the subject reference the position you are applying for. (Only short-listed candidates will be contacted).
Director, People & Culture,
World Vision Kenya,
P.O. Box 50816 (00200),
Nairobi.

Or E-mail: recruit_kenya @wvi.org