CADECOM of the Archdiocese of Lilongwe is one of the 8 Catholic development commissions in Malawi, covering seven districts of Kasungu, Ntchisi, Dowa, Salima, Mchinji, Nkhotakota and Lilongwe in the Central Region of Malawi. CADECOM Lilongwe Archdiocese has received funding from Norwegian Church Aid (NCA)-Dan Church Aid (DCA) Joint country program to implement the GROW Project: Scaling Agroecology for Climate Resilience project, to enhance productivity and income stability for 2,550 smallholder producers in Ntchisi and Dowa districts. The project integrates goat production into agroecology-based farming systems. It is in this context that CADECOM is looking for suitable candidates to fill the positions of field officer as follows:
Job Title: Field officer
Job Purpose: To promote the adoption of sustainable agroecological practices and goat integration in the project impact area, with a strong focus on Food Security and land restoration.
Organisational Relationship: Under the Direct Supervision of the Diocesan CADECOM Secretary
Location: Ntchisi
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Lilongwe
- Category: Agriculture
- Closing Date: 2026-07-24
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate actual implementation and reporting of the project activities.
- Mobilize communities in the catchment area.
- Build Capacity for farmer groups (incubators and producer groups) in good crop husbandry practices, value addition and post-harvest handling for value chains.
- Ensure Cross-cutting (gender, diversity, HIV and AIDS and environmental) Issues are effectively taken on board in all program plans and activities.
- Identify, investigate, verify and document success stories, and lessons learnt in all project interventions.
- Prepare and submit activity, weekly, monthly, quarterly, annual and other reports
- Collect required information/data relating to the programme as demanded from time to time
- Participate in development of viable project proposals for CADECOM and the Diocese
- Undertake any other duties as may be assigned from time to time;
Requirements
- A Bachelors degree in agriculture, forestry, Animal Science, development studies, with emphasis in rural development, project management or any relevant field.
- At least three to five years of professional experience in implementing/managing integrated development programming, with knowledge of practices in monitoring and evaluation.
- Experience in the area of Agriculture Extension, Landscape Management and Restoration, Climate-Smart Agriculture.
- Excellent oral and written analytical communication skills, ability to work well with people, use good judgment and commit to CADECOM’ mission.
- Computer literate (MS Office), must be competent in the use Microsoft Excel.
- Ability to transfer knowledge through formal and informal training.
- Willingness to travel extensively to the project sites to interact with stakeholders and project participants.
- A committed Christian.
- Achievement-Oriented: You work tirelessly and complete the task at hand even among unforeseen shocks and surprises. You believe that both positive and negative experiences will lead to learning and growth.
- Change Maker: You will support smallholders as they climb out of poverty and become successful commercial producers of food
- Leader: You will be happy to spend most of the time in the field, leading farmer meetings, supporting farmers implement project interventions
How to Apply
About the Company
The Catholic Development Commission in Malawi (CADECOM) serves as the primary development and social justice arm of the Catholic Church within the country. Operating nationwide, CADECOM works through its diocesan structures to reach grassroots communities and implement impactful programs across Malawi. Its core mandate involves fostering integral human development, focusing on critical areas such as food security, climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and WASH initiatives. CADECOM strives to empower vulnerable populations, advocate for social justice, and enhance livelihoods through sustainable community-driven projects. This vital organization collaborates with both local and international partners to build resilient communities and promote human dignity throughout Malawi.
Promoting integral human development and social justice in Malawi.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and educational background needed for a Field Officer role in Malawi's agricultural sector?
Most Field Officer roles in agriculture development in Malawi commonly require a diploma or degree in agriculture, rural development, or a related field. Practical experience in community mobilization, agricultural extension, and working with farmers is often highly valued alongside formal qualifications.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Field Officer working in agriculture for a development organization in Malawi?
Field Officers typically spend their days visiting project sites, training farmers on improved agricultural practices, and monitoring project progress in rural communities. This often involves extensive travel to communities, facilitating community meetings, and collecting field data.
What is the typical work culture and what are key expectations for a Field Officer operating in rural Malawi?
The work culture often emphasizes adaptability, strong community engagement, and resilience due to varying field conditions and remote locations. Expect to build strong relationships with local communities, traditional leaders, and stakeholders, often working flexible hours based on project needs and community availability.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities for a Field Officer in Malawi?
A Field Officer can progress to roles such as Project Coordinator, Program Officer, or specialist positions within agricultural development or community development organizations. Gaining extensive field experience, demonstrating strong leadership, and pursuing further professional development can accelerate career growth.
What are the typical benefits offered for a full-time Field Officer position in Malawi?
Standard benefits for full-time professional roles in Malawi often include medical aid, a pension scheme, and annual leave days. Due to the nature of the role, some organizations may also provide transport allowances or support for extensive field travel.
What do employers in Malawi typically look for when hiring a Field Officer, and what is the general application process?
Employers seek candidates with strong practical agricultural knowledge, proven community engagement skills, and often proficiency in local languages relevant to the project areas. The application process typically involves submitting a detailed CV and a compelling cover letter highlighting relevant field experience and commitment to rural development.