Kirima Dairy Cooperative Society Ltd
EXTENSION OFFICER JOB ADVERTISEMENT
Company Overview
Welcome to Kirima Slopes Dairy Cooperative Society Ltd., where we are dedicated to empowering farmers and enhancing agricultural practices. Located in Kerugoya, Kenya, we are committed to sustainable farming and improving livelihoods in our community. Join us in our mission to revolutionize the dairy sector!
Position: Extension Officer
Are you passionate about agriculture and eager to make a difference in dairy farming? Kirima Slopes Dairy Cooperative Society Ltd. is seeking a dynamic Extension Officer to join our team. As an Extension Officer, you will play a crucial role in providing technical expertise, guidance, and support to dairy farmers. If you have a background in Animal Science or Dairy Technology and a drive to promote sustainable farming practices, we want to hear from you!
Responsibilities
- Farm Visits: Conduct regular visits to dairy farms to assess needs and provide technical assistance.
- Technical Guidance: Offer expert advice and guidance on dairy farming practices to improve productivity and quality.
- Promotion of Sustainable Techniques: Advocate for and facilitate the adoption of sustainable agricultural techniques among farmers.
- Training and Workshops: Organize and lead training sessions and workshops to educate farmers on best practices and innovations.
- Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records and reports of extension activities for monitoring and evaluation purposes.
- Collaboration: Collaborate with fellow agricultural experts to address specific challenges and foster knowledge sharing within the community.
Qualifications and Skills
- Education: Diploma or degree in Animal Science or Dairy Technology from a recognized institution.
- Experience: Minimum of two years’ experience in the dairy sector, with a strong understanding of current agricultural practices.
- Communication: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with farmers and stakeholders.
- Independence: Ability to work independently while also being a collaborative team player.
- Motorbike Riding: Possession of a valid motorbike license is preferred, as the ability to ride a motorbike will be advantageous.
How to Apply
Are you ready to embark on this exciting opportunity to drive positive change in the dairy sector? Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit their detailed curriculum vitae and a compelling cover letter highlighting their relevant experience and qualifications by April 2nd, 2024. Please ensure that “Extension Officer Application” is included in the subject line of your email.
Applications can be hand-delivered or sent via email to humanresource@kirimasdcs.co.ke.
Address
The Human Resource Officer,
Kirima Slopes Dairy Co-op Society Ltd,
P.O. Box 498-10300,
Kerugoya, Kenya.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Kirima Slopes Dairy Cooperative Society Ltd. is committed to diversity and equal opportunity in employment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or disability.
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Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant for Extension Officer Position
- Understand the Role: Familiarize yourself with the responsibilities and expectations outlined in the job description. Tailor your application to demonstrate how your skills and experience align with the requirements of the position.
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize any previous experience you have in the dairy sector or related agricultural fields. Showcase your knowledge of sustainable farming practices and your ability to provide technical guidance to farmers.
- Demonstrate Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential for an Extension Officer. Provide examples of how you have successfully communicated complex agricultural concepts to diverse audiences, such as farmers or community groups.
- Showcase Problem-Solving Abilities: As an Extension Officer, you will encounter various challenges in the field. Share examples of how you have approached and resolved agricultural issues creatively and efficiently.
- Illustrate Collaboration Skills: Collaboration is key in agricultural development. Describe instances where you have worked collaboratively with colleagues, farmers, or other stakeholders to achieve common goals and address challenges.
- Emphasize Adaptability: The agricultural landscape is constantly evolving. Highlight your ability to adapt to change and stay updated on emerging trends and technologies in the dairy sector.
- Provide Evidence of Record Keeping: Attention to detail and organization are essential for maintaining accurate records of extension activities. Share examples of how you have effectively managed data and produced comprehensive reports.
- Express Passion for Sustainable Farming: Demonstrate your commitment to sustainable agriculture and improving livelihoods in rural communities. Share personal anecdotes or projects that reflect your passion for environmental conservation and community development.
- Prepare for the Interview: Research commonly asked interview questions and practice your responses. Be ready to articulate your qualifications, experiences, and aspirations for the role confidently.
- Follow Up: After submitting your application, consider sending a follow-up email expressing your continued interest in the position. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and professionalism to the hiring team.
Sample Cover Letter for an Extension Officer Position
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient Name]
Human Resource Officer Kirima Slopes Dairy Co-op Society Ltd
P.O. Box 498-10300
Kerugoya, Kenya
Dear [Recipient Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the Extension Officer position at Kirima Slopes Dairy Cooperative Society Ltd, as advertised. With a degree in Animal Science and two years of hands-on experience in the dairy sector, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and make a meaningful impact on sustainable farming practices in our community.
During my tenure at [Previous Organization], I had the privilege of working closely with dairy farmers to implement innovative techniques that resulted in increased productivity and improved milk quality. My passion for agriculture, coupled with my strong communication skills and technical expertise, has enabled me to effectively engage with farmers and facilitate knowledge transfer.
I am particularly drawn to Kirima Slopes Dairy Cooperative Society Ltd’s commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture and empowering local farmers. I am eager to leverage my skills and experience to support your mission and drive positive change in the dairy sector.
Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to further discuss how my background and qualifications align with the needs of your organization. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to the success of Kirima Slopes Dairy Cooperative Society Ltd.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the primary responsibilities of an Extension Officer? An Extension Officer is responsible for providing technical assistance and guidance to farmers, promoting sustainable farming practices, organizing training sessions, and maintaining records of extension activities.
2. What qualifications are required for the Extension Officer position? Candidates should have a diploma or degree in Animal Science or Dairy Technology from a recognized institution, along with at least two years of experience in the dairy sector.
3. Is motorbike riding a mandatory requirement for this position? While possession of a valid motorbike license is preferred, it is not mandatory. However, the ability to ride a motorbike would be advantageous for conducting farm visits efficiently.
4. How can I demonstrate my communication skills in the application process? You can demonstrate your communication skills by providing clear and concise written communication in your cover letter and CV. Additionally, highlighting any experience you have in delivering training sessions or workshops would showcase your ability to communicate effectively.
5. What opportunities for professional development are available for Extension Officers at Kirima Slopes Dairy Cooperative Society Ltd? At Kirima Slopes Dairy Cooperative Society Ltd, we prioritize continuous learning and development for our employees. Extension Officers have the opportunity to participate in workshops, seminars, and training programs aimed at enhancing their technical skills and knowledge in agricultural practices. Additionally, they may have access to mentorship programs and networking events within the agricultural community to further their professional growth.
6. How can I prepare for the interview for the Extension Officer position? To prepare for the interview, familiarize yourself with the job description and the responsibilities of an Extension Officer. Be ready to discuss your relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments in the dairy sector. Practice answering common interview questions, and consider how you can demonstrate your passion for sustainable agriculture and your ability to work effectively with farmers and stakeholders.
7. What qualities are valued in a successful Extension Officer? Successful Extension Officers possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, a passion for agriculture and sustainable farming practices, adaptability to changing environments, problem-solving abilities, and a collaborative mindset. They should also be organized, detail-oriented, and committed to making a positive impact in the agricultural community.
8. Are there opportunities for career advancement within Kirima Slopes Dairy Cooperative Society Ltd? Yes, we believe in fostering career growth and providing opportunities for advancement within our organization. Extension Officers who demonstrate exceptional performance and leadership qualities may be considered for promotions to higher-level positions or may have the chance to take on additional responsibilities within their role.
9. What support systems are in place for Extension Officers to succeed in their roles? Extension Officers receive ongoing support from our team of experienced agricultural experts, as well as access to resources and tools needed to effectively carry out their responsibilities. They also have the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues and participate in knowledge-sharing initiatives to enhance their skills and expertise.
10. Is there room for innovation and creativity in the role of an Extension Officer? Absolutely! We encourage Extension Officers to explore innovative approaches and solutions to address agricultural challenges and improve farming practices. Whether it’s experimenting with new techniques, implementing pilot projects, or leveraging technology, we value creativity and initiative in driving positive change in the dairy sector.
Possible Extension Officer Interview Questions With Answers
- Question: Can you describe your experience working with dairy farmers in previous roles? Answer: Certainly. In my previous role at [Previous Organization], I conducted regular farm visits to assess the needs of dairy farmers and provided technical assistance and guidance on various aspects of dairy farming, including animal health, nutrition, and breeding.
- Question: How do you stay updated on current agricultural practices and trends? Answer: I am committed to continuous learning and stay updated on current agricultural practices and trends through various means, such as attending workshops, seminars, and webinars, reading industry publications, and networking with fellow agricultural professionals.
- Question: Can you provide an example of a challenge you encountered in the field and how you addressed it? Answer: One challenge I encountered was helping farmers transition to sustainable farming practices while balancing economic viability. I addressed this by providing personalized guidance, demonstrating the benefits of sustainable practices, and offering support in accessing resources and incentives available for adoption.
- Question: How do you approach building rapport with farmers and stakeholders? Answer: Building rapport with farmers and stakeholders is crucial for effective communication and collaboration. I approach this by actively listening to their concerns, demonstrating empathy, and establishing trust through consistent and transparent communication and follow-up.
- Question: How do you handle conflicts or disagreements with farmers or stakeholders? Answer: I believe in addressing conflicts or disagreements openly and respectfully, seeking to understand the root cause and finding mutually beneficial solutions. I strive to maintain professionalism and focus on constructive dialogue to resolve issues and maintain positive relationships.
Rough Salary Range Estimate:
The salary range for the Extension Officer position at Kirima Slopes Dairy Cooperative Society Ltd is approximately Ksh 40,000 to Ksh 60,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
We wish all applicants the best of luck in their job search journey! Kirima Slopes Dairy Cooperative Society Ltd is committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all backgrounds in our ongoing efforts to become a leading development partner. Remember, we are an equal opportunity employer and do not charge any application or recruitment fees, whether refundable or not. Thank you for considering a career with us.
Disclaimer: The provided salary range is an estimate and may vary based on factors such as experience, qualifications, and internal policies. Candidates are encouraged to discuss salary expectations during the interview process.
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To apply for this job email your details to humanresource@kirimasdcs.co.ke
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