Research Officer: Agricultural Engineering (Harare) at Kutsaga Research

Job description

The position is within an agricultural research institution and is responsible for conducting technology and climate change related agricultural research. The candidate is expected to integrate innovations that improve the efficiency of tobacco operations and ensure sustainable and responsible production. In addition, the Research Officer will provide research-based information and advice to growers.

Position reports to: Head of Agric Technologies, Engineering and Biosystems.

Duties and responsibilities

• Conduct agricultural technical research trials aimed at improving agricultural processes, machines, equipment and systems. Specific areas of focus include:
• Research into improvements in sanding furnaces
• Evaluation of sustainable curing fuels
• Irrigation trials (if necessary)
• Conducting trials and experiments to evaluate new agricultural equipment in contract research trials (in collaboration with designers/developers of said equipment).
• Proactively design and develop structures and machines: Innovate mechanically sound machines, equipment and gadgets to meet the needs of growers and other departments within the institution,
• Climate-Proofing Innovations: Develop original innovations to make crops climate-proof.
• Engage in conversations with farmers and tobacco growers: discuss their agricultural technology needs and implement necessary interventions based on research results. v. Provide technical support and expertise: Assist farmers, agricultural producers and other stakeholders and provide guidance on agricultural technical practices. vi. Collaborate with researchers and scientists: Collaborate with team members to implement projects aimed at increasing agricultural efficiency and sustainability.
• Data analysis and reporting: Analyze research data and interpret the results. Prepare reports (weekly, monthly, board and annual) documenting findings.
• Generate scientific publications: write scientific articles based on your own research for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Present findings at various scientific conferences and workshops.
• Stay up to date on industry trends, technological advancements and best practices in agricultural engineering.
• Assist in estimating costs and submitting bids for engineering related projects and preparing the relevant contract documents.
• Perform other related duties and responsibilities as necessary.

Qualifications and experience

• At least a B.Sc. Agricultural engineering or equivalent.
• At least 5 years of relevant work experience, preferably with industrial experience in agriculture or technology.
• General Al. understand and utilize.
• Insight into climate trends.
• Agro-informatics skills ability to work with big data Software tools for sustainable agricultural practices.
• Knowledge of project management and the ability to use computer aided design. Knowledge of precision farming techniques,
• Self-motivated with proven interpersonal and relationship skills.
• Ability to work independently and within teams on abstract projects with minimal supervision.
• Must be able to work under pressure.
• Class 4 driving license.

Other

How to apply

Interested candidates should submit their CV, motivation letter and references to: [email protected] by May 9, 2024 of “Research Associate (Agricultural Technology)‘ in the subject line. Only shortlisted candidates will be replied to.