Farm Equipment Specialist

Farm Equipment Specialist (LRS) - Vacancy Number Z24166 - Based in Harare, Zimbabwe

CIMMYT is a cutting edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow's problems today. It is entrusted with fostering improved quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops through applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South, through building strong partnerships. This combination enhances the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers, while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries.

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated candidate for the position of Farm Equipment Specialist to be based in Harare, Zimbabwe. This is a nationally recruited position and is open to all Zimbabweans with excellent academic records and relevant experiences. The successful candidate will ensure effective maintenance and upkeep of the farm equipment and installations at CIMMYT SARO research station located in Harare and other CIMMYT-managed research stations in Zimbabwe.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Regular and proactive maintenance of farm equipment, including tractors, Plot Combine and various farm implements.
2. Regular and proactive maintenance of irrigation systems, including pumps reservoirs, and drip/sprinkler irrigation systems.

1. Regular and proactive maintenance of cold rooms and seed dryer systems and generators
2. Regular and proactive maintenance of various electrical installations and related equipment at the CIMMYT-managed research facilities in Zimbabwe.
3. Conduct regular inspections of the farm equipment, machinery, and electrical components at the CIMMYT-managed research facilities, identify any potential problems, and promptly report to the Research Station Manager for timely actions.
4. Troubleshooting mechanical/electrical malfunctions and breakdowns, as well as performing repairs, as and when needed.
5. Develop and document mechanical/electrical maintenance protocols and plans to prevent costly equipment breakdowns.
6. Monitor the availability of frequently replaced parts and replenishing supplies, if needed.
7. Optimizing mechanical efficiency by adjusting machinery and equipment settings.
8. Training co-workers on the safe and efficient use of farm machinery and equipment.
9. Maintaining a tidy work environment and adhering to industry regulations.
10. Record keeping i.e., preventative maintenance records, job cards, audit checklists, etc.
11. Ability to carry out relief work related to on station and off station land preparation activities such as ploughing, discing, rolling, etc

Required academic qualifications, skills, and attitudes:

• Degree/Diploma in mechanical/electrical engineering from a recognized institution.
• Good understanding of mechanical and electrical principles for maintenance of farm equipment.
• At least 5 years of experience in the Agriculture/Floriculture/Horticulture industry.
• Valid Class 4 driving license is a requirement.
• Good workmanship and skill sets required for the job to avoid repeated repairs and safetyrelated issues.
• Team player, action-oriented, flexible, and self-driven with attention to detail.
• Ability to work on weekends, if required, to attend any emergencies.