Terms of Reference (ToRs) for Project Associate Position under Fruit Fly Project

1. Background

The project aims to introduce and validate eco-smart, sustainable, and cost-effective Integrated Pest Management (IPM) solutions to control fruit fly infestations in key horticultural zones of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in Swat and Charsadda. Fruit fly infestation is a major constraint affecting productivity, quality, and marketability of fruits and vegetables, resulting in significant economic losses for farmers.

Through a combination of research, field validation, farmer engagement, and capacity building, the project will develop locally adaptable IPM packages integrating cultural, mechanical, and environmentally safe chemical control methods. The initiative also focuses on reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides, improving biodiversity, enhancing farmer incomes, and strengthening horticultural value chains.

2. Key Responsibilities

• Support implementation of field-level project activities in Swat and Charsadda
• Ensure systematic, accurate, and timely data collection and management
• Monitor adoption and compliance of farmers with IPM packages
• Provide field-based insights to support evidence-based decision-making
• Compile and organize field data in structured formats
• Support statistical and qualitative data analysis
• Monitor installation and functioning of pheromone traps
• Maintain accurate field records (manual and digital)
• Ensure data quality, consistency, and verification

3. Required Qualifications & Experience

• BSc (Hons.) / MSc in Agriculture (Entomology, Horticulture, Plant Protection or related field)
• 1–3 years of relevant field experience
• Experience in data collection and surveys , Farmer engagement and IPM or pest management projects will be given preference

4. Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and reporting skills
• Proficiency in MS Excel and data tools
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently in field conditions
• Knowledge of local language (Pashto preferred)

5. Duty Station

• Swat and Charsadda districts
• Extensive field presence required for monitoring and data collection
• Frequent travel between project sites and coordination offices

6. Reporting Line

Will directly report to Project Coordinator ASF

7. Duration of Assignment

• 12 months (extendable based on performance and project needs)