The Forest Extension Specialist will be a pivotal member of the IAAM (Integrated Aquaculture Agriculture Malawi) project by providing expertise in forestry management, reforestation, and biodiversity conservation.  This role is instrumental in driving the projects’ goals by collaborating closely with local communities to implement sustainable forestry practices, promote forest conservation, and integrate these practices within smallholder farming systems. The Specialist will also work to enhance livelihoods through innovative agroforestry solutions and the development of community-based enterprises related to afforestation.

• Develop and implement sustainable forestry management plans that align with the project’s objectives and are tailored to the specific needs of local communities.
• Promote and adapt best practices in forest conservation and reforestation techniques, to local conditions, ensuring sustainability and community relevance.  

• Engage directly with marginalized and vulnerable communities, delivering hands-on training and ongoing support in sustainable forestry practices.
• Facilitate active community participation in forestry activities fostering a sense of ownership and long-term commitment to conservation efforts.  

• Continuously monitor and evaluate the effects of forestry activities on local biodiversity and ecosystems, adjusting strategies as needed to maximize outcomes.
• Partner with local stakeholders to identify and protect critical biodiversity areas, implement protective measures and support the restoration of degraded landscapes. 

• Lead efforts to integrate forestry practices with aquaculture and agriculture, enhancing the resilience and productivity of local ecosystems. 
• Design and promote agroforestry systems that offer dual benefits to smallholder farmers and the environment, driving both ecological and economic gains.
• Initiate and support community-based enterprises related to afforestation, contributing to the improvement of livelihoods and economic empowerment. 

• Establish and maintain robust monitoring systems to track the progress and impact of forestry activities on forest cover, biodiversity and community well-being.
• Prepare detailed reports on forestry activities, highlighting successes, challenges, and actionable recommendations for continuous improvement. 

• Conduct workshops and training sessions for community members, local organizations, and project staff, disseminating knowledge on best practices in forestry management and conservation. 
• Provide continuous support to enhance the capacity of stakeholders to manage and sustain forestry initiatives effectively.
• Share knowledge and best practices related to forestry management and conservation. 

• Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborate with local government agencies, NGOs, and other relevant stakeholders to bolster forestry and conservation efforts, ensuring alignment with broader environmental and developmental goals.
• Advocacy and Representation: Represent the project in relevant meetings and forums, advocating for sustainable forestry practices and the integration of forestry with agriculture and aquaculture.
• Collaborate with local government agencies, NGOs, and other relevant stakeholders to enhance forestry and conservation efforts, ensuring alignment with broader environmental and development goals.
• Represent the project in relevant meetings and forums, advocating for sustainable forestry practices and the integration of forestry with agriculture and aquaculture. 

• Collaborative Skills: Proven ability to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and local communities.
• Project Management: Strong experience in project design, implementation, and monitoring, with a focus on achieving measurable results.
• Analytical Expertise: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to use data to inform strategic decision-making.
• Financial Acumen: Experience in managing budgets and timelines, ensuring efficient use of resources.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in changing circumstances, learn from setbacks, and adjust strategies as needed.
• Communication Proficiency: Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas to diverse audiences.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in relevant software for data analysis and reporting (e.g., GIS, Excel)
• Prepare regular reports for donors, government agencies, and project stakeholders. 

• Master's Degree (preferred) or bachelor's degree in Forestry, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years' experience in forestry management, reforestation, and biodiversity conservation.
• Community Engagement: Extensive experience working with marginalized and vulnerable communities, focusing on empowerment and capacity building.
• In-depth understanding of sustainable agriculture and aquaculture practices and their integration with forestry.
• Extensive experience working with marginalized and vulnerable communities, focusing on empowerment and capacity building.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to use data to inform decision-making.
• Proficiency in relevant software for data analysis and reporting (e.g., GIS, Excel). 

We require all applications, including cover letters and resumes, to be submitted through CDF Canada's web portal.

Applicants must be Malawi Citizens or have legal authorization to work in Lilongwe, Malawi. Please note that we are unable to provide visa assistance or offer relocation support for this position.