Agricultural Incentives & Waivers Officer (GMG/SEG 2)

Job Purpose

Under the direct supervision of the Director, Agricultural Incentives & Waivers, the Agricultural Incentives & Waivers Officer will assist with the implementation of Government policies pertaining to agricultural incentives and waivers on agricultural inputs (goods or services) - General Consumption Tax (GCT)/import duties, and income tax relief, on behalf of the approved farmer/farming enterprise. The incumbent also assists in conducting inspections, surveys and studies, prepares reports, briefs, notes and plans, and participates in meetings, conferences and workshops, as necessary. 

Key Responsibilities

Management/Administrative 

• Participates in the development and preparation of the Unit’s Corporate/Operational Plans, Budget and Individual Work Plans; 
• Prepares payment vouchers and commitment requisitions for bills, and submits for approval for payment; 
• Liaises with the Accounts Department to monitor timely and expeditious payment. 
• Maintains an Inventory of all supplies; 
• Liaises with the Facilities and Property Management Branch regarding repairs and general maintenance; 
• Prepares reports and programme documents as required; 
• Maintains customer service principles, standards and measurements; 
• Represents the Unit on various committees and meetings; 
• Contributes to and maintains a system that fosters a culture of teamwork and commitment to the Unit’s and organization’s goals; 
• Keeps abreast of current developments in the assigned areas of responsibility to guide the work of the Branch; 
• Participates in meetings, seminars, conferences, workshops and other fora. 

Technical/Professional 

• Assists with the administration of incentives and waivers to eligible farmers; 
• Receives, reviews and processes applications from RADA, on behalf of farmers who wish to purchase vehicles, materials and equipment for use in Agriculture; 
• Receives, reviews and processes applications from RADA, on behalf of farmers for income tax relief/approved farmer status; 
• Liaises with other Government Agencies as it relates to Agricultural Incentives; 
• Assists with keeping farmers abreast of the Incentives Programme; 
• Assists with the inspection of farms across the island, to verify information relating to applications for eligibility and due diligence; 
• Assists with designing Data Collection and Recording Systems, consistently reviews instruments/systems and makes recommendations; 
• Maintains optimal function of the Incentives and Waivers Databases and related systems;
• Assists with the examination of pro forma invoices to verify farmers’ Agricultural inputs; 
• Formulates recommendations/responses to requests and other correspondence requesting clarification or information on incentives; 
• Assists in conducting research and responds to queries from various stakeholders, analyses data and documents findings; 
• Assists in the investigation of delays, and recommends corrective action; 
• Provides advice and guidance on policy and legislation to farmers and other stakeholders, relating to Agricultural Incentives and Waivers; 
• Keeps abreast of amendments to policies and legislation related to Agricultural Incentives;
• Requests goods and services, and liaises with the Procurement Branch and merchants regarding purchases; 
• Performs other related functions assigned from time to time. 

Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

Core: 

• Excellent oral and written communication skills 
• Good problem-solving and decision-making skills 
• Good analytical thinking skills 
• Good customer and quality focus skills 
• Good teamwork and cooperation skills 
• Good interpersonal skills 
• Methodical 
• Ability to use initiative 

Technical: 

• Good knowledge of the Agricultural Sector. 
• Good knowledge of the GOJ Policy on Agricultural Incentives with respect to Agricultural inputs regarding Fiscal Incentives Act, General Consumption Tax/import duties and the Customs Act and Regulations. 
• Good knowledge of writing technical reports. 
• Basic knowledge of Accounting and Procurement Procedures and Policies.
• Good knowledge of the operations of Government and the Organization Policies and Procedures. 
• Proficient in the use of relevant Software Applications. 
• Knowledge of General Consumption Tax and other Tax Act and Regulation.

Minimum Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Economics or related field in the Social/Natural Sciences or equivalent qualifications. 
• At least two (2) years’ experience in Agricultural Economics or related field. 

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.