THE ROLE  

The Assistant Project Officer (APO) is responsible for sensitizing, recruiting, contracting and developing the capacity of smallholder farmers for the Lake Victoria Agroforestry Carbon Project in Kenya. The APO works in accordance with TREES Forest Garden Approach to ensure quality and effective project implementation. Assistant Project Officer reports to the Project Officer.

RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Undertake scouting and documentation of potential project areas for expansion, mobilize and recruit farmers for the Lake Victoria Watershed Agroforestry Carbon Project.
• Support stakeholder and farmer dialogue and consultative meetings with project farmers and organize farmers into groups.
• Provide relevant training and skills development to farmers on the Forest Garden Approach agroforestry model and as per TREES’ training framework.
• Provide Forest Garden extension services, field visits and coordinate the establishment of Forest Gardens.
• Undertake monthly data collection, participate in regular Field Area Measurements and Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) activities in accordance with the laid-out schedules to collect data for the project.
• Update and maintain farmer records through TREES Taroworks data collection app.
• Support and organize monthly Lead Farmer meetings and advise farmers on the best Forest Garden farming practices.
• Sensitize farmers on farmer carbon contracts requirements, administer farmer contracts, monitor and report on farmer carbon contract administration.
• Collaborate with the Project Officers to inform project reports and plans for all participating Farmer Groups that account for all Project activities, material acquisition and distribution, training events, monitoring & evaluation.
• Ensure timely data collection and report submission, including the Monthly Reporting Form (MRF) to the Project Officer on all project activities, as per TREES reporting requirements and deadlines.
• Assists with the development and/or translation of locally appropriate training materials.
• Provide information and accomplish additional tasks in a timely manner as requested by the Project Officer, Program Manager or the Director of Field Programs.

WHO YOU ARE 

• An enthusiastic advocate for TREES’ mission. You are passionate about improving livelihoods through agroforestry. You center farmers in every decision, ensuring projects drive real impact for communities and the environment.
• A Farmer-Focused Field Supporter. You enjoy working directly with farmers and technicians, conducting site visits, troubleshooting issues on the ground, and demonstrating technical skills. You are comfortable spending significant time in rural settings and prioritize farmer needs and support.
• A Skilled Trainer & Community Facilitator. You have experience in adult education, participatory training methods, and community engagement. You are able to break down complex concepts into practical, actionable steps for farmers, technicians, and partners. You have successfully led training sessions and facilitated discussions effectively.
• A Detail-Oriented Data Manager.  You have experience collecting, verifying, and managing data for Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL) and demonstrate experience in using data to assess project effectiveness, generate reports that inform decision-making.
• An Effective Collaborator & Reporter. You communicate clearly and professionally in both verbal and written formats. You have experience in report writing, sharing key findings with stakeholders, and working collaboratively with teams across different functions.
• A Reliable and Adaptable Professional. You demonstrate consistency in delivering results, even in dynamic environments.

REQUIREMENTS 

• Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma in a relevant field (e.g., Agriculture, Agroforestry, Environmental Science, Agribusiness, Forestry, or related disciplines).
• Minimum one (1) year experience in agroforestry, climate-smart, and sustainable agriculture (preferred). Background in participatory training and facilitation.
• Proficiency in smartphone applications for data collection.
• Valid motorcycle license with off-road and on-road riding experience with a proven safe riding history.
• Fluency in English and Swahili (spoken and written). Proficiency in local languages (preferred).
• Strong alignment with organizational values and a positive culture.