Post-Doctoral Fellow – Mechanization
Agriculture, Farming Jobs
- International Maize and Wheat…
- Expires 14 Sep 2020
- Bulawayo
- Full Time
Job Description
CIMMYT is seeking an experienced and result-oriented professional for the position Associate Scientist – Mechanization to work in the Sustainable Intensification Program.
The position will be based in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Duties and Responsibilities
Work closely with CIMMYT staff and assume the day-to-day management of research programs focused on appropriate-scale mechanization.
Oversee engineering and site-specific adaptation work with national partners in regional programs.
Adapt machinery options to the circumstances of small-scale, resource-constrained farmers.
Provide practical training to local researchers, extension agents, service providers, artisans and mechanics on appropriate-scale mechanization as wanted and needed by different project objectives.
Coordinate the establishment of networks of mechanization demonstration trials.
Collect and analyze monitoring data as per project requirements.
Maintain data records, enter data into electronic data bases, and maintain data archiving and back-up systems.
Assist machinery users in the different projects with trouble shooting of innovative equipment.
Supervise second generation engineering activities i.e., adjustments, improvements, and modifications of machinery with collaborating service providers, mechanics and artisans.
Draw machinery and support the design and development of prototypes and improved products and product parts.
Develop models of parts and assembled parts in 3D.
Calculate the durability and reliability of prototypes.
Prepare documentation for manufacturing, assembly, and instructions plans of prototypes and improved product and product parts.
Interact and organize meetings with various stakeholders and partners, with a particular emphasis on core partner organizations and private sector, to discuss, streamline, and implement new agricultural machineries in the field.
Help form partnerships with a wide-range of clientele (including service providers, farmers, NGOs, private and public sector organizations, and scientists) to scale appropriate mechanization in the diverse cropping systems and socioeconomic environments of Southern Africa.
Support South-South and regional learning between stakeholders in CIMMYT and beyond.
Document research results in international peer-reviewed journals.
Help develop new initiatives for appropriate mechanization in the region and elsewhere.
Qualifications and Experience
PhD in Agriculture Engineering or closely related field or a MSc with at least 5-10 years of demonstrated hands-on practical experience.
Important selection criteria will be mechanization and engineering experience.
Be familiar with user-centred participatory design.
Experience with on-farm research with focus on animal traction and small farm mechanization (2-wheel tractors drawn).
Experience with programs on sustainable land management are an advantage.
Experience translating research results to extension and policy bulletins and training materials.
Basic supervisory and teaching skills with demonstrated experience.
Ability to communicate research results effectively to a wide range of audiences.
Computer literacy, with proficiency in the common software packages and engineering software (e.g., AutoCAD).
Flexibility to spend extended periods away from post location.
Proficient communication skills in written and spoken English.
Commitment to advances farm productivity and poverty reduction in the developing world.
Demonstrated ability to work collegially and collaboratively in diverse, multicultural partnerships.
The selected candidate must exhibit the following competencies: Creative and Critical Thinking, Communication, Teamwork and Client Orientation.
The position is for an initial fixed-term for two (2) years, after which further employment is subject to performance and the continued availability of funds. CIMMYT’s internationally competitive salary and benefits include housing allowance, car, comprehensive health and life insurance, assistance for children’s education, paid vacation, annual airfare, contribution to a retirement plan, and generous assistance with relocation shipment.
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