Job Description
Position: Senior Agronomy Specialist
Company: International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT)
Location: Bor, South Sudan
Experience: 5+ years
Education: Master’s Degree in Agronomy or Crop Science
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Agriculture and Food Security
Department: Research and Development
Salary: 1,200,000 – 1,800,000 SSP per month
Vacancies: 1
Company Overview
The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) is a global leader in agricultural research, dedicated to improving food security and sustainable livelihoods. As a key player in international development, we focus on developing high-yielding, disease-resistant, and climate-resilient crop varieties. Our mission is to ensure that farmers in developing nations have the tools they need to combat hunger and adapt to changing environmental conditions. By participating in our programs, you are joining a global network of scientists and experts committed to solving the most pressing agricultural challenges of the 21st century. We are currently expanding our footprint in East Africa to address local food shortages and enhance crop productivity through scientific innovation.
Job Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Agronomy Specialist to lead our field research initiatives in Bor, South Sudan. This role is critical to our mission of enhancing food security through advanced crop management techniques. The successful candidate will oversee large-scale field trials, manage local research teams, and translate complex scientific data into actionable advice for local smallholder farmers. This position offers unique career opportunities in South Sudan for professionals passionate about sustainable development and agricultural resilience. You will play a pivotal role in implementing climate-smart agricultural practices that directly impact the livelihoods of thousands of families. For more information on our global impact, visit https://southsudanjobsearch.com.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and implement rigorous field experiments to test new maize and wheat varieties under local soil and climatic conditions.
- Lead a team of field technicians and local researchers to ensure data integrity and timely collection of agronomic metrics.
- Develop training modules for local farming cooperatives to promote sustainable soil management and pest control.
- Analyze large datasets from field trials to identify trends in crop performance and yield potential.
- Collaborate with local government agencies and NGOs to align research goals with national food security strategies.
- Prepare comprehensive technical reports for international stakeholders and regional agricultural boards.
Required Skills
- Advanced expertise in crop physiology, soil science, and pest management strategies.
- Proficiency in statistical software such as R, SAS, or SPSS for analyzing field trial data.
- Strong leadership skills with experience managing multidisciplinary field teams in remote environments.
- Excellent technical writing skills for publishing research findings and internal reports.
- Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to non-technical stakeholders and local farmers.
Education
A minimum of a Master’s Degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, Plant Pathology, or a closely related agricultural science field is required. A PhD is highly preferred for this senior-level position.
Experience
Candidates must possess at least five years of professional experience in field-based agricultural research, preferably in sub-Saharan Africa. Proven experience in managing large-scale field trials and leading research teams is essential for success in this role. Experience working with international non-governmental organizations is a significant advantage.
Salary
The monthly salary for this position ranges from 1,200,000 SSP to 1,800,000 SSP, depending on the candidate’s qualifications and experience level. This is a competitive package designed to attract top-tier scientific talent to the region.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health and life insurance coverage.
- Performance-based annual bonuses.
- Subsidized housing and transportation allowances for field visits.
- Professional development and conference attendance opportunities.
- Access to cutting-edge agricultural research technology and laboratories.
Training
CIMMYT provides continuous professional development through specialized workshops on advanced genomic selection and climate-smart agriculture. We also offer mentorship programs for junior researchers and technicians to foster a culture of continuous learning. For more career insights, check https://liberiajobsearch.com/job-vacancy-in-liberia/.
Working Environment
The working environment is primarily field-based, requiring significant time spent in rural agricultural settings across the Jonglei region. While some administrative work is done in a professional office setting, the core of the role involves working outdoors in various weather conditions. This role requires physical stamina and the ability to travel to remote locations within South Sudan.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their CV and a cover letter detailing their research experience through our official recruitment portal. We are looking for individuals who demonstrate a deep commitment to employment in South Sudan and the advancement of agricultural science. Please ensure all documentation is up to date. For more job vacancies, visit https://gambiajobsearch.com/.
Equal Opportunity Statement
CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability status. Hiring in South Sudan is a priority for our regional expansion, and we encourage applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds.