Agronomist – Technical Lead for Farmer & Internal Production

About the role

The Agronomist will provide technical leadership and oversight for agricultural production activities within C4C’s farmer‑based programs and internal farming initiatives. This role focuses on improving crop productivity, promoting climate‑smart practices, and supporting out‑grower schemes to enhance livelihoods of smallholder farmers.

Key responsibilities

• Lead technical planning and implementation of farmer‑based crop interventions, including chili and other approved crops.
• Develop and guide crop production plans aligned with seasonal and quarterly targets.
• Define agronomic practices, input requirements, and production standards for each cycle.
• Prepare input specifications and quantities for both farmer‑based and internal production cycles.
• Provide technical guidance and back‑stopping to Extension Officers in the field.
• Conduct training and coaching sessions for Extension Officers to ensure consistent application of recommended practices.
• Monitor crop performance, identify risks, and recommend corrective actions.
• Support recruitment of farmers into C4C out‑grower schemes and promote sustainable, climate‑smart agriculture.
• Lead internal agricultural production activities, including schedule development and day‑to‑day technical support for farm teams.

Required profile

• Based in Lusaka, Zambia.
• Valid motorcycle riding licence.
• Willingness to travel frequently to field sites.
• Immediate availability preferred.

Required skills

• Strong technical knowledge of agronomic practices and climate‑smart agriculture.
• Experience developing crop production plans and input specifications.
• Ability to train and coach extension officers.
• Proficiency in monitoring and reporting crop performance and production risks.