Reference number: 2621
Job status: In-progress
Job category: Local Position
Duty station: Colombo, Sri Lanka
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CIFOR-ICRAF
The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF) envision a more equitable world where trees in all landscapes, from drylands to the humid tropics, enhance the environment and well-being for all. CIFOR and ICRAF are non-profit science institutions that build and apply evidence to today’s most pressing challenges, including energy insecurity and the climate and biodiversity crises. Over a combined total of 65 years, we have built vast knowledge on forests and trees outside of forests in agricultural landscapes (agroforestry). Using a multidisciplinary approach, we seek to improve lives and to protect and restore ecosystems. Our work focuses on innovative research, partnering for impact, and engaging with stakeholders on policies and practices to benefit people and the planet. Founded in 1993 and 1978, CIFOR and ICRAF are members of CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources. CIFOR-ICRAF is looking for a
Field Assistant – Community Engagement and Value Chain
Overview The responsibilities of this position include organizing community engagement activities and deploying appropriate tools to collect socio-economic, environmental, and geo-spatial data and assist in baseline ecosystem monitoring, and supporting data entry, validation, and preliminary analysis to facilitate the implementation of Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) schemes and Green Value Chain upgrading initiatives.
Duties and responsibilities
Science Production
Support the implementation of research and field activities related to watershed management, Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) monitoring and Green Value Chain upgrading by conducting Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) exercises, farmer household surveys, socio-economic assessments, environmental baseline surveys, to generate reliable data for evidence-based planning, analysis, and reporting. Contribute data entry, validation, preliminary analysis, and maintenance of field databases and records.
Human Capital
Support the learning and capacity development of students, interns, enumerators, and community participants by assisting in field training, survey orientation, practical demonstrations, and knowledge-sharing activities to strengthen local and institutional capacity in research and field implementation.
Game-changing Solutions
Represent the center interests during interactions with farmers, local communities, government officers, private sector actors, and other stakeholders in meetings, consultations, workshops, and field events to strengthen collaboration, encourage stakeholder participation, and support the adoption of PES mechanisms and sustainable value chain practices.
Structural Capital
Support timely implementation of field operations by assisting in planning, organizing, and coordinating field visits, stakeholder meetings, workshops, logistics, and progress reporting. Accompany project teams during field missions and provide operational assistance to ensure efficient delivery of activities on the ground.
Education, knowledge and experience • A bachelor's degree in environmental science, Agriculture, Natural Resource Management, Surveying Science, Forestry or a related field, or GCE A/L in science and Mathematics stream with a minimum of 5 years' experience as a technical grade staff member in a reputed organization.
• Proven competency in effective communication and tools and techniques of community engagement approaches.
• Basic knowledge of watershed management, ecosystem services, sustainable agriculture, rural livelihoods, and environmental conservation.
• At least 2 years of experience in field-based research, surveys, community development projects, or similar assignments in reputable national or international organizations.
• Experience in conducting household surveys, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), and stakeholder consultations.
• Experience in field data collection, environmental monitoring, and ground-truthing exercises.
• Practical experience in handling GPS equipment, spatial data collection, and maintaining accurate field records.
• Experience in data entry, validation, and preliminary analysis using spreadsheet or survey software.
• Previous engagement with farming communities, government agencies, NGOs, Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), or farmer organizations.
• Experience in supporting workshops, training programs, field logistics, and project implementation will be an added advantage.
Terms and conditions • This is a vacancy for 2 (two) Locally Recruited Staff (LRS) positions. CIFOR-ICRAF offers competitive remuneration in local currency, commensurate with skills and experience.
• The appointment will be for 6 (six) months with the possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of the position, and available resources.
• The duty station will be in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
• Submit CV & Cover Letter in PDF with your name
To apply, please visit our career site at: https://www.cifor-icraf.org/about/work-with-us/
To learn more about CIFOR-ICRAF, please visit our websites at: https://www.cifor-icraf.org
CIFOR-ICRAF promotes Gender Diversity – Applications from women professionals are encouraged.
CIFOR-ICRAF is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity.
Application process The application deadline is 22 May 2026
We will acknowledge all applications, but will contact only short-listed candidates.
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