JOB DESCRIPTION (ECHO)
JOB TITLE: Communications Officer and Administrative Assistant
Department: ECHO East Africa
Reports To: Director
Location: East Africa Regional Impact Center – Arusha, Tanzania
Nature of Role: Full time, Onsite
Duration: 1 year (From 1st August 2025)
Location: Arusha, Tanzania.
Prepared Date: July 2025
BACKGROUND:
ECHO East Africa is a registered International Non Governmental Organization that serves smallholder farmers and a large network of local and international stakeholders in Eastern and Southern Africa. Based in Arusha, Tanzania, we promote Agroecology as a means to food security and economic development. We provide sustainable agriculture and appropriate technology interventions to the underprivileged rural zones. We work with a large network of partners to identify, validate, disseminate, and measure these interventions. Our vision is to see a transformed world honoring God by strengthening the capacity of a diverse global network to defeat hunger and improve lives through sustainable food and agroecosystem strategies. As Jesus first loved us, as agents of restoration we seek to glorify God and love our neighbors. We are followers of Jesus who value stewardship, partnership, and the dignity of all. 70% of the world’s population depends on small-scale farmers for most of their food. ECHO’s programs focus on increasing food yields at its most crucial sources in collaboration with local NGOs, farmers, volunteers, and missionaries. By emphasizing regenerative, environmentally friendly practices, we’re helping to change the literal and figurative landscape so families can thrive.
SUMMARY:
The Communications Officer and Administrative Assistant provides communications and direct support to the ECHO East Africa Director and, when requested, to other ECHO team members. This position plays a vital role in strengthening ECHO’s agricultural development outreach and operations throughout East Africa. The Executive Assistant supports the effective planning and implementation of training events, manages databases and communications, contributes to publications and reports, facilitates seed bank and demonstration site activities, and ensures smooth administrative coordination.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Communications and Networking
o Facilitate communication between ECHO East Africa and ECHO Global staff.
o Engage regional partners, development organizations, and community stakeholders.
o Assist with outreach efforts, visitor hosting, and volunteer coordination at the Regional Impact Center.
2. Event Coordination and Support
o Assist in organizing ECHO East Africa symposiums, workshops, and trainings.
o Support event logistics, communications, and participant follow-up.
o Help implement conferences and regional training events.
3. Administrative
o Manage administrative activities related to the seed bank, nursery, and demonstration areas.
o Organize the ECHO East Africa digital and physical resource libraries.
4. Monitoring, Evaluation and Database Management
o Develop and maintain data systems for operations, outreach, and partner engagement.
o Develop and maintain data systems for operations, outreach, and partner engagement.
o Ensure that the M&E databases are optimally used to store, analyze and present relevant information to the organization, donors, and other key stakeholders.
5. Publications and Technical Materials
o Draft, edit, and format training and knowledge materials for publication and internal use.
o Maintain and update ECHO East Africa’s content on ECHOcommunity.org.
o Provide clear and concise written communication for reports, articles, and correspondence.
6. Technical and Logistical Assistance
o Participate in trainings, assessments, and consultancies as needed.
o Assist with the development and management of appropriate technology demonstrations.
o Support seed bank systems and contribute to seed exchange initiatives.
7. General Support and Flexibility
o Manage multiple priorities and follow through on assigned tasks.
o Perform other duties as assigned by the Director or ECHO international staff.
o Uphold ECHO’s values in all interactions with partners and communities.
QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty with excellence. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities expected.
1. Must affirm ECHO’s Statement of Faith, Vision, Mission, and demonstrate values consistent with ECHO’s Christian foundation.
2. At least 3-4 years of experience and background in Communications, Agriculture and Rural Development, preferably within East Africa.
3. Advanced degree in Administration, Management, Information Technology, or Social Sciences.
4. Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and networking skills.
5. Demonstrated ability to use social media and information technologies effectively.
6. Excellent writing, formatting, and editing skills with strong attention to detail.
7. Proven experience working with CBOs, government agencies, and development partners at local and regional levels.
8. Competence in photography, Microsoft Office, and online platforms.
9. Valid driver’s license.
10.Ability to manage competing priorities with adaptability and professionalism.
11.Able to work harmoniously with Christian and other faith-based institutions.
12.Self-motivated with a strong desire for personal and professional development.
OTHER DUTIES:
This job description is not exhaustive. Responsibilities, duties, and tasks may change at any time based on organizational needs and strategic direction.
AAP/EEO STATEMENT:
ECHO is an equal opportunity employer committed to fair and respectful employment practices. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, or gender. As a Christian faith-based organization, ECHO may give employment preference to individuals who affirm our Statement of Faith and align with our mission and values. We welcome applicants who are committed to working in a spirit of integrity, collaboration, and mutual respect.
APPLICATION:
Application Interested applicants are required to submit their cover letter and CV highlighting their experiences to hreastafrica@echonet.org by 5pm on Friday, 25th July 2025. Email Subject to read Communications and Administrative Assistant position.
ECHO East Africa provides a conducive work environment and is compliant to the Tanzania Labor Laws. We do not ask for bribes at any stage of recruitment. Canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.