The Zambezi Cashews Company Limited (ZCCL), a subsidiary of the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), was established in 2018 to drive economic growth, enhance food security, and develop the Western Province through large-scale cashew production. With 517 hectares of productive plantation on a 25,599-hectare landholding, ZCCL is poised for significant expansion. However, to realize this potential and ensure operational excellence, the company requires skilled professionals in key managerial roles.
Role Overview:
The Estates Officer oversees the daily management and supervision of cashew plantation operations, ensuring efficient execution of cultivation, maintenance, and harvesting activities. The role is critical to implementing the company’s agricultural strategy and achieving optimal estate productivity.
Key Roles and Responsibilities:
1. Field Operations Supervision
- Direct and supervise daily field activities, including land preparation, planting, irrigation, pruning, weeding, pest control, and harvesting.
- Ensure all tasks are performed in compliance with the company's agricultural protocols and quality standards.
- Monitor the health and growth of cashew trees, promptly identifying and reporting any issues such as pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies.
2. Workforce Management
- Supervise and motivate field teams and laborers to ensure high productivity and adherence to work schedules.
- Assist in the training and on-the-job coaching of staff on proper agricultural techniques and safety procedures.
- Maintain accurate records of attendance, work hours, and task completion for the assigned teams.
3. Resource and Inventory Management:
- Monitor and manage the use of agricultural inputs, including fertilizers, pesticides, and tools, ensuring minimal waste.
- Ensure all equipment and machinery are used correctly and maintained in good working condition.
- Track and report on the stock levels of materials and equipment, raising requisitions as needed.
4. Data Collection and Reporting:
- Collect and record field data, including planting progress, yield statistics, and labor hours.
- Prepare and submit regular reports on operational activities, challenges, and progress to the Estates Manager.
- Assist the Estates Manager in the development and execution of plantation plans.
5. Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE):
- Promote and enforce a strong culture of health and safety among all field workers.
- Ensure all work is carried out in a safe manner, with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) being used.
- Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and sustainable farming practices.
Minimum Qualifications & Experience
- Grade 12 Certificate with five (5) O Levels.
- A Diploma in Agriculture, Agronomy, Forestry, Crop Science, or a related field.
- A degree would be an added advantage.
- Minimum of 5 years of practical experience in large-scale farm or plantation, preferably with tree crops.
- Experience with tree crops, perennial crops, or cashew cultivation preferred
- Experience in outgrower coordination or smallholder farmer support programs advantageous
- Background in greenfield agricultural projects or plantation development preferred.
Knowledge and Skills Requirements
You must possess the following skills and knowledge:
- Supervisory Skills: Ability to lead, train, and manage a team effectively.
- Technical Knowledge: Solid understanding of agricultural practices, crop management, and pest/disease control.
- Problem-Solving: Ability to quickly identify and resolve operational issues in the field.
- Communication: Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact with laborers and management.
- Attention to Detail: Meticulous in data collection and ensuring tasks are completed accurately and to standard.
- Physical Fitness: Ability to work in a demanding outdoor environment.
Application Process:
Qualified candidates who are eager to contribute to the success of Zambezi Cashew Company Limited and are willing to be based in Mongu, Western Province, should submit their application.
All applications are online by clicking: https://www.idc.co.zm/careers/job-vacancies/