AVANSE is seeking to develop the banana supply chain in northern Haiti, with the objective of increasing sustainable employment opportunities, food security and export revenues for small and medium size farmers. AVANSE will specifically provide support to the Union des Producteurs de Banane d’Haiti (UPBH) through an in-kind grant to enable the establishment of a 50 hectare demonstration banana farm in Bord-de-Mer Limonade. Through this grant, the banana farm will be provided with the appropriate infrastructure and equipment to grow, harvest, clean, sort and pack bananas for export through the Dominican Republic vis-à-vis UPBH’s private sector partner Banamiel, an existing Dominican banana export firm.
Under this grant, UPBH is seeking a qualified Farm Operation Assistant as the key technical resource in the implementation of a 50 ha demonstration banana farm. This position is initially funded by AVANSE. The Farm Operation Assistant will have overall responsibility of the implementation of activities related to organizing the production and harvesting, as well as managing the field technicians who assist in the planting fertilization, fruit protection, farm engineering work, water management and disease control.
Fonctions
The Farm Operation Assistant will report directly to the Farm Manager and will be responsible for managing the daily operation of the banana farm including:
• Provide direct field assistance and required support to the Farm Manager for implementation of project activities;
• Engage in land preparation, planting, weeding, assisting in irrigation activities, maintenance, and harvesting;
• Apply agrochemicals and fertilizers used in the routine production of bananas;
• Assist in the hiring process and ensure coordination between and supervision of contract labor assigned to farm operations activities;
• Operate machinery and service farm equipment – including routine maintenance and repair of tractors, irrigation pumps, and packing station infrastructure;
• Maintain all internal roads and all wire fences;
• Conduct routine inspections to detect any early signs of disease and pest issues and immediately inform the Farm Manager and other supervisors of any findings;
• Supervise waste removal and ensure that waste generated during daily work is disposed of safely and in compliance with all regulations, including grant EMMP requirements;
• Use all equipment (including safety equipment) in the manner intended and report any damaged/lost equipment to supervisor;
• Follow all required safety procedures and maintain a safe work environment for all farm workers;
• Conduct crop scouting for weeds, insects and diseases;
• Inspect farm buildings and equipment, ensure that routine and seasonal maintenance schedules are carried out and repairs are made when necessary;
• Follow protocols for safe use of chemicals and inputs; maintain certification in proper use of pesticides and train other staff in these practices as necessary;
• Ensure that farm operations and practices meet health, safety, and environmental standards and regulations;
• Stay up-to-date with developments in the field in order to implement beneficial changes when necessary; this includes installing new equipment or modifying and implementing operating procedures;
• Submit monthly report to Farm Manager on status of all field operations.
Qualifications Requises
• Degree in Agriculture or related discipline or equivalent cumulative and progressive experience (at least 5 years of experience in applied crop production) is required.
• Knowledge of Integrated Pest Management principles and practices, plant propagation and culture methods is required.
• Have knowledge of fertilizers and pesticides, and have a solid understanding of how, why and when to apply all relevant environmental, health, safety and legal requirements,
• Ensure the correct use of all related equipment. Additional requirements include:
• Proven ability to lead a team of workers;
• Ability to work extended hours during peak season.
• At least 5 years' experience in managing a commercial farm (banana and/or plantain farm is a plus);
• Must be able to organize the operation of farm equipment, such as tractors, cultivators, and sprayers;
• Must be detail-oriented, well organized and able to work independently and in a safe manner;
• Ability to keep detailed and accurate written records;
• Demonstrated organizational skills including ability to juggle multiple tasks at the same time and establish priorities for meetings;
• Excellent communications skills required;
• Must be able to safely lift up to 50 pounds;
• Must be able to successfully interact with a wide variety of people;
• Ability to handle a variety of projects effectively, efficiently and with confidentiality.
