The Statia Government is committed to strengthening sustainable agriculture and food security on the island. To support these efforts, the Executive Council invites applications from qualified candidates for the position of Extension Officer – Agriculture (Crops).

Are you passionate about sustainable agriculture and ready to make a direct impact on food security and nature-inclusive development? In this role, you will support local crop producers, promote sustainable farming practices, and assist with the enforcement of regulations concerning free-roaming animals.

Duties and Responsibilities

Wildlife Management & Enforcement (during the roaming livestock control project)

• Enforce the removal of free-roaming animals in line with animal welfare guidelines and legal regulations (APV 29-2018, Article 3.3.3).

• Apply humane removal methods, including culling, tranquilising, or safe capturing.

• Transport animals to designated facilities or arrange for humane disposal.

• Maintain detailed records on animal removals, tools used, and ammunition consumption.

Agricultural and Crop Support

• Provide technical assistance and tailored advice to crop producers to improve productivity and sustainability.

• Organise training sessions, workshops, and field demonstrations.

• Conduct farm visits to assess needs and offer personalised crop management advice.

• Support the collection of data on crop production, market trends, and agricultural developments.

• Develop and distribute educational materials, fact sheets, and extension publications.

• Liaise with governmental and research institutions to remain current on agricultural policies and research.

• Participate in community events and outreach to promote sustainable crop farming.

• Identify and advise on necessary inputs, such as fertilisers, seeds, tools, and equipment.

• Demonstrate agricultural practices on the LVV model farm and community garden.

Field Operations

• Perform fieldwork in physically challenging environments, including rugged terrain and high temperatures.

• Use hunting tools, including firearms, safely and in line with protocols.

• Keep up to date with firearm safety, humane handling practices, and sustainable farming through training.

• Maintain ethical and professional standards in all field activities.

Reporting & Coordination

• Submit timely reports on activities to the LVV Manager.

• Coordinate with the Agri-Business Support & Advice Unit to align agricultural support initiatives.

• Collaborate with farmers, agricultural stakeholders, and enforcement agencies to meet goals.

Working Conditions

The position is for an interim period of one year. We offer a salary in scale 10, with a minimum of $4,099.58 and a maximum of $5,320.73 gross monthly, based on a 36-hour work week. The amounts stated are in accordance with the salary table of the Statia Government, dated 4 December 2024. Placement within the salary scale is based on qualifications and experience.

In addition, the employee will receive a holiday allowance of 8.33% and an end-of-year bonus of 8.33% of the annual income. The successful candidate must provide a Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG) and undergo a medical evaluation. An assessment and reference check may form part of the recruitment process.

This vacancy is being published both internally and externally. In cases of equal suitability, internal candidates will be given preference.

For more details on employment conditions, visit: Statia Government website → Job Vacancies → Working in Statia

Job Requirements

This dynamic role is based at the LVV Unit (Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Fisheries) and reports to the ENI Directorate (Economic, Nature and Infrastructure Development). You will contribute to sustainable crop production, provide extension services, assist with animal removal when required, and work closely with stakeholders in both the agriculture and veterinary sectors.

Required Skills and Competencies

• HBO degree or higher (Bachelor’s or equivalent).

• Hands-on experience in crop farming, sustainable agriculture, or wildlife management.

• Valid firearm licence and demonstrable firearms competency.

• Physically fit and able to work in outdoor conditions.

• Knowledge of climate-resilient agricultural practices and sustainable land use.

• Clear communicator with strong documentation and coordination skills.

• Collaborative and self-motivated with strong problem-solving abilities.

• Committed to safety, animal welfare, and regulatory compliance.

Apply

Please submit your written application no later than Monday 8 September 2025.

Interviews will be conducted during the week of 15 September 2025.

Temporary for a trial period of one year, with the prospect of a permanent position.

Closing date: September 8, 2025