Agricultural Extension Officer - Community Development

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Travel allowances

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Extension Officer to serve the Polokwane, Limpopo region. The role connects farmers with knowledge, resources, and technologies to improve productivity, profitability, and sustainability.

The successful candidate will train and provide technical advice, build strong relationships with farming communities, and support market access initiatives. The position emphasizes community development and practical agricultural solutions across local crops.

Qualifications

• Degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Rural Development or related field.
• At least 3 years in agricultural extension or community development, preferably in Limpopo.
• Strong knowledge of local farming systems and crops in Polokwane.

Responsibilities

• Conduct needs assessments within farming communities to identify challenges and opportunities.
• Provide direct technical assistance and training on improved farming techniques incl. crop cultivation, soil management, pest control, and water conservation.
• Organize and facilitate farmer field days, workshops, and demonstration plots.
• Advise farmers on practices to enhance yields, quality, and sustainable methods.
• Assist farmers in accessing resources such as seeds, fertilizers, and government programs.
• Facilitate linkages between farmers and markets, buyers, and value chains.
• Collect and report agricultural data, project progress, and community feedback.
• Promote climate-smart agriculture and resilience-building strategies.
• Act as a trusted advisor and facilitator within the community.

Skills

Communication skills

Facilitation

Training

Community development

Independent work

Education

Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Agriculture/Rural Development

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a non-profit organization dedicated to agricultural development and rural empowerment, is seeking a passionate and skilled Agricultural Extension Officer to serve the **Polokwane, Limpopo** region. This role is vital in connecting local farmers with the knowledge, resources, and technologies needed to improve their productivity, profitability, and sustainability. The Extension Officer will work directly with farming communities, providing training, technical advice, and support on best agricultural practices, crop management, and market access. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of local agricultural conditions, excellent communication and training skills, and a deep commitment to community development. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of farmers and contribute to the economic growth of the **Limpopo** province. You will be building strong relationships within the agricultural community, acting as a key liaison between farmers and development initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct needs assessments within farming communities to identify challenges and opportunities related to agricultural production.
• Provide direct technical assistance and training to farmers on improved farming techniques, including crop cultivation, soil management, pest and disease control, and water conservation.
• Organize and facilitate farmer field days, workshops, and demonstration plots.
• Advise farmers on best practices for enhancing crop yields, improving produce quality, and adopting sustainable agricultural methods.
• Assist farmers in accessing relevant resources, such as improved seeds, fertilizers, financial services, and government programs.
• Facilitate linkages between farmers and potential markets, buyers, and agricultural value chains.
• Collect and report on agricultural data, project progress, and community feedback.
• Promote the adoption of climate-smart agriculture practices and resilience-building strategies.
• Act as a trusted advisor and facilitator within the agricultural community.

Requirements

• A Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Rural Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in agricultural extension, community development, or a similar role, preferably within Limpopo.
• Strong knowledge of local farming systems, crops, and agricultural challenges relevant to Polokwane.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and training skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse groups of farmers.
• Proficiency in local languages is a significant advantage.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks in a community-based setting.
• Basic understanding of agricultural economics and market linkages.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively within the Polokwane and surrounding rural areas.
• Passion for rural development and empowering farming communities.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including travel allowances, communication allowances, and opportunities for professional development in agricultural extension methodologies and rural development. This role provides immense personal satisfaction through direct engagement with farming communities and the opportunity to witness firsthand the positive impact of your work. You will be part of a dedicated team committed to improving agricultural livelihoods and fostering sustainable development in the Limpopo region. The position offers a chance to build meaningful relationships and contribute to the resilience and growth of local agriculture.