Project Manager – Integrated Mustard Oil Processing Center

Vacancy announcement: Project Manager – Integrated Mustard Oil Processing Center

Duty Station: Kepilasgadhi Rural Municipality, Khotang District

Organization: dZi Foundation/ Nepal

Application Deadline: May 22, 2025

dZi Foundation is a US-based non-profit organization working with rural communities in Nepal to achieve prosperity by eliminating barriers to basic needs, fostering opportunities for sustainable livelihoods, and building their capacity to catalyze transformational change. dZi's current strategic plan adapts to evolving policy and development landscapes, and sharpens our focus on partnerships, local ownership, and long-term sustainability beyond external investments.

dZi Foundation/Nepal is seeking a dynamic and experienced Project Manager to lead the establishment and operation of an Integrated Mustard Oil Processing Center in Kepilasgadhi Rural Municipality, Khotang in collaboration with local government, farmers groups and private sector entities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, design, and implementation of the mustard oil processing center as per the detailed project report (DPR).
• Oversee phased construction, ensuring adherence to timelines, quality, and budget.
• Oversee procurement, installation, and commissioning of processing machinery and equipment.
• Ensure all infrastructure meets climate-resilient design standards.
• Coordinate with consultants, engineering teams, and contractors throughout the project lifecycle.
• Implement strategies to enhance mustard productivity and integrate improved cultivation practices.
• Oversee farmer training on sustainable agriculture, pest management, and climate adaptation.
• Develop systems to reduce post-harvest losses and improve seed quality.
• Integrate beekeeping to boost yields and farmer income.
• Develop and execute market linkage, branding, and marketing strategies for mustard oil and by-products.
• Facilitate partnerships with market actors and promote value-added product development.
• Manage project budget and financial systems, ensuring sustainability and transparency.
• Serve as the main liaison with local government, private sector, and community stakeholders.
• Lead and supervise a team of 8–10 staff, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Ensure gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) targets, including 50% participation of women and marginalized groups.
• Develop and implement monitoring, evaluation, and learning frameworks.
• Prepare periodic reports and facilitate knowledge sharing.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Master’s degree in Management, Agroeconomics, Agricultural Engineering, Food Technology, or related fields.
• At least 5 years of project management experience, with a minimum of 3 years in agriculture/agribusiness, food processing, or related sectors.
• Proven experience in managing infrastructure development projects, preferably in food processing.
• Demonstrated expertise in value chain development, market linkage, and farmer capacity building.
• Experience implementing gender equality and social inclusion strategies.
• Strong financial management, budgeting, and business development skills.
• Experience with INGOs, donor-funded projects, or public-private partnerships.
• Familiarity with monitoring and evaluation methodologies.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• In-depth knowledge of agricultural production systems, especially oilseed crops and processing.
• Strong understanding of food safety, quality control, and compliance.
• Excellent project planning, scheduling, and resource allocation skills.
• Proven leadership and team management abilities.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in project management tools, financial software, and MS Office.
• Ability to work effectively in remote rural settings.
• Fluency in English and Nepali; knowledge of local languages of eastern hill districts is an advantage.

Working Conditions

• Full-time position based in Kepilasgadhi Rural Municipality, Khotang.
• Regular travel within the district and occasional travel to provincial/national capitals.
• Work in both office and field environments, including production facilities.
• May require extended hours during critical phases.
• Initial contract of two years, with possible extension based on performance and funding.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

• Detailed CV highlighting relevant experience
• Cover letter explaining suitability for the position
• Names and contact information of three professional references
• Expected salary range

Please send your application to vacancy.np@dzi.org with the subject line:

“Application: Project Manager- Mustard Oil Processing Center” by May 22, 2025.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. Canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification. Only shortlisted applicants will be invited for further process. dZi reserves the right to accept and reject any or all applications without assigning any reason whatsoever.

dZi Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women and members of marginalized groups.