Agronomy Specialist Job Vacancy in Maiduguri, Nigeria – Agriculture and Agribusiness

Job Description

Position: Agronomy Specialist

Company: Olam Nigeria

Location: Maiduguri, Nigeria

Experience: 5+ years of experience in agronomy, crop management, and field research.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Science, or related field; Master’s preferred.

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Agriculture and Agribusiness

Department: Research & Development

Salary: SSP 2,500,000 – SSP 4,000,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Olam Nigeria is a leading global agribusiness company with a strong presence across the African continent. Operating in over 60 countries, Olam focuses on sourcing, processing, and distributing a wide range of agricultural commodities, from cocoa and coffee to grains and oilseeds. In Nigeria, Olam has invested heavily in sustainable farming practices, community development, and value‑added processing facilities. The company’s commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and farmer empowerment makes it a top employer for professionals seeking to make a tangible impact on food security and rural livelihoods. As part of its expansion strategy, Olam is establishing a state‑of‑the‑art research hub in Maiduguri to support the unique agro‑ecological challenges of the North‑East region. This hub will drive cutting‑edge agronomic solutions, improve crop yields, and enhance resilience against climate variability, aligning with national goals for agricultural transformation and job creation. Joining Olam Nigeria means becoming part of a dynamic, inclusive, and forward‑thinking organization that values expertise, collaboration, and continuous learning. The role offers exposure to international best practices, cross‑functional projects, and a platform to influence agricultural policy and practice across Nigeria and beyond.

Job Overview

The Agronomy Specialist will lead research and development initiatives aimed at optimizing crop performance for smallholder and commercial farms in the North‑East zone. Working closely with the R&D team, extension officers, and local farmer cooperatives, you will design field trials, analyze soil and climate data, and develop best‑practice guidelines for high‑value crops such as millet, sorghum, and legumes. Your insights will directly inform Olam’s product development pipeline, seed selection, and agronomic advisory services. The role also involves collaborating with external research institutions, government agencies, and NGOs to align projects with national agricultural strategies. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of sustainable agriculture in Nigeria while advancing your career in a globally recognized agribusiness. For more information about Olam’s commitment to agricultural excellence, visit our partner portal at https://nigeriajobsearch.com.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and monitor on‑farm field trials for staple and cash crops across diverse agro‑ecological zones.
• Analyze soil health, nutrient management, and water use efficiency to develop region‑specific agronomic recommendations.
• Collaborate with seed suppliers and breeding programs to evaluate new varieties for yield, disease resistance, and climate resilience.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, scientific publications, and extension materials for farmer training.
• Lead capacity‑building workshops for extension officers and farmer groups, translating research findings into practical guidance.
• Maintain robust data management systems, ensuring accurate collection, storage, and analysis of agronomic data.
• Support the development of sustainable farming practices, including conservation agriculture, integrated pest management, and precision farming techniques.
• Engage with government agricultural agencies to align projects with national policies and secure funding opportunities.
• Monitor market trends and emerging technologies to recommend innovative solutions for Olam’s supply chain.

Required Skills

• Strong expertise in crop physiology, soil science, and agronomic trial design.
• Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., R, SAS) and GIS tools for spatial analysis.
• Excellent communication skills for presenting complex data to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work independently and lead multidisciplinary teams in challenging field conditions.
• Experience with sustainable agriculture practices and climate‑smart farming.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of local languages (e.g., Hausa, Kanuri) is an advantage.

Education

A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Science, Crop Science, or a related discipline is required. A Master’s degree or Ph.D. is highly desirable, especially with a focus on tropical agriculture, sustainable farming systems, or climate adaptation.

Experience

Applicants should have at least five years of hands‑on experience conducting agronomic research, field trials, or extension services in Nigeria or comparable environments. Prior experience with multinational agribusinesses or NGOs is a plus.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from SSP 2,500,000 to SSP 4,000,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based bonuses, health insurance, and a retirement savings plan.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and medical coverage for employee and dependents.
• Retirement savings scheme with employer contributions.
• Annual performance bonus linked to project outcomes.
• Professional development allowance for conferences, certifications, and further studies.
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to Maiduguri.
• Paid parental and family leave.

Training

• On‑boarding program covering Olam’s global agronomy standards and local operational protocols.
• Access to Olam’s internal learning platform with courses on precision agriculture, data analytics, and sustainable farming.
• Mentorship from senior scientists and regional agronomy leaders.
• Opportunities to attend international workshops and field days hosted by partner research institutions.

Working Environment

The role is based in Maiduguri, with a blend of office‑based analysis and extensive field work across the North‑East region. Olam provides a safe, inclusive, and collaborative workplace equipped with modern laboratories, data centers, and field equipment. Employees benefit from a supportive culture that encourages innovation, respects diversity, and promotes work‑life balance. For additional resources on regional development, explore https://malawijobsearch.com/.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience through the online portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment at the Maiduguri research facility. For detailed application guidelines, refer to https://eswatinijobsearch.com/.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Olam Nigeria is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic.