Program Specialist  

Job Summary

Reporting to the Unit Head, Project Development & Technical Services, the Program Specialist is responsible for leading the development, technical review, and implementation of externally funded projects and service engagements in agriculture and rural development, securing funding opportunities, drafting competitive proposals, and managing multidisciplinary teams and partners to achieve Searca’s Five-Year Development Plan targets.

Terms of Reference:

KRA 1: Project Development

1. Identifies project opportunities in the areas of agriculture, rural development, environmental management, and other cross-cutting programs and projects.
2. Writes and develops technical proposals, concept notes, Expression of Interests.
3. Prepares the external and internal budget of new projects.
4. Conducts necessary research and data gathering including benchmarking and scoping visits.
5. Identifies and liaises with experts, institutions, development partners and other stakeholders for the development and preparation of proposals.
6. Coordinates with other departments and units of the Center for the packaging of core programs or proposals.
7. Coordinates internal clearance processes of proposals.
8. Participates in project team meetings and planning activities.
9. Assists in contract/Memorandum of Agreement negotiation.
10. Identifies consulting/Professional Technical Services opportunities relevant to Searca’s thrusts in the region, particularly in the areas of agriculture, rural development and environmental management.
11. Manages the database of projects, concept notes/ Expression of Interests), and proposals submitted for funding.
12. Assists in service contract negotiation.
13. Assists in the preparation and implementation of the Unit’s marketing plan
14. Assists in the business or marketing visits to potential donors/funding agencies/clients’ institutional partner, etc.
15. Coordinates, liaises, facilitates, and participates in activities to strengthen cooperation with international, regional and national organizations such as but not limited to regional development activities that relate to Searca’s mandate
16. Represents Pdts/Searca in relevant meetings, consultations, and negotiations with prospective partners

KRA 2: Technical Services

1. Manages day-to-day implementation of approved projects, including timelines, deliverables, and coordination with partners
2. Mobilizes and coordinates technical experts, consultants, and partners as needed
3. Supervises and provides guidance to the Project Coordinator, Project Associate, and Project Assistant assigned to the project(s).
4. Reviews technical outputs of project teams and consultants for consistency and alignment with Searca standards
5. Ensures deliverables meet donor and partner requirements prior to submission
6. Contributes to knowledge products (e.g., policy briefs, publications) arising from project work

Other Tasks:

1. 1. Prepares reports and presentations as deemed necessary.
2. 2. Perform other tasks as deemed necessary for project development and implementation

Applications will be received not later than 17 September 2026 or until a suitable candidate is accepted/hired.

Qualifications

Education:
Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Economics, Environmental Economics, or a related field.

Work Experience:

Five (5) years of relevant work experience in proposal development/ program design and implementation, particularly preparing and reviewing technical and financial proposals and ensuring submissions meet donor, client, or organizational requirements, guidelines, and deadlines. With working knowledge of Southeast Asian agricultural and rural development issues, preferably in a similar post and capacity.

Skills

1. Proposal Development and Communication: Exceptional ability to develop compelling project proposals, prepare engaging presentations, and effectively market program initiatives.
2. Research and Analysis: Strong analytical and research skills, including the ability to gather, synthesize, and interpret complex data.
3. Communication and Collaboration: Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with diverse stakeholders (local, national, and international).
4. Project Management: Above-average skills in project planning, organization, monitoring, and coordination.
5. Computer Proficiency: Proficient in standard computer software applications (word processing, presentation software, spreadsheets, databases, search engines, and quantitative analytical tools).