RTI International Multiple open positions

About the Organization

RTI International is an independent, non-profit scientific research institute dedicated to improving the human condition through science-based solutions. Our vision is to address the world’s most critical problems with technical and science-based solutions in pursuit of a better future. Clients rely on us to answer questions that demand an objective and multidisciplinary approach—one that integrates expertise across social, statistical, data, and laboratory sciences, engineering, and other technical disciplines.

The organization believes in the promise of science and technical solutions, pushing every day to deliver on that promise for the good of people, communities, and businesses in the US and around the world. RTI’s Center for International Development implements large-scale, multidisciplinary projects across health, energy, agriculture, water, and education. By leveraging deep cross-institutional knowledge, proven solutions, and contextual expertise, we increase global impact by improving lives, driving economic growth, and enhancing stability in fragile and developing geographies.

In Ethiopia, RTI is implementing the 5-year USDA Food for Progress (FFPr) program, known as the SunGold project. This program uses a market-driven, U.S.-led value chain approach to transform the sunflower sector, addressing key productivity, market linkage, financing, and policy constraints. Through these efforts, we aim to benefit both local communities and international businesses by creating a more robust and sustainable agricultural landscape.

We offer a professional environment where technical and operational staff collaborate to achieve high-stakes development goals. RTI fosters a culture that values objective research, innovative problem-solving, and professional integrity. Our staff are given the opportunity to make a real difference in the world while working alongside international experts in their respective fields.

RTI International is deeply committed to a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion, recognizing that a diverse workforce is essential to solving the world’s most challenging problems. We explicitly encourage women and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply for these positions. We believe that providing equal opportunities for all qualified candidates strengthens our ability to deliver impactful results in Ethiopia and beyond.

Job Description and Strategic Impact

The strategic importance of these roles to the SunGold project is vital for the transformation of Ethiopia’s sunflower sector. The Finance and Administration Officer ensures that the regional operations are cost-effective, timely, and governed by strong internal controls. Simultaneously, the technical leads and officers drive the market-driven value chain approach by increasing productivity, facilitating financial services, and improving market access.

A “day-in-the-life” for our staff involves engaging with a wide variety of stakeholders, from local sunflower farmers and cooperatives to regional government bureaus and private sector actors. Whether managing complex financial vouchers in the regional office or providing technical agronomy services in the field, every task is designed to reduce trade barriers and increase the competitiveness of the value chain.

These roles provide significant career development opportunities within an international NGO setting. Staff gain experience in implementing USDA-funded programs, mastering complex donor regulations, and utilizing professional tools like QuickBooks or digital supply chain solutions. The multidisciplinary nature of our teams allows employees to bridge the gap between technical expertise and operational excellence.

The impact of our work is felt directly in the Oromia, Central, Southern, and Southwest regions of Ethiopia. By building the capacity of extension services and promoting entrepreneurship among farmers and youth, our staff contribute to long-term economic stability and food security. This project serves as a cornerstone for agricultural transformation, creating sustainable market linkages that will last long after the program’s conclusion.

Working at RTI provides the opportunity to contribute to high-fidelity scientific and technical implementation in a challenging environment. We empower our employees to set priorities, meet deadlines, and perform at their best while maintaining a high level of personal and professional integrity. Joining RTI means becoming part of a global community dedicated to the pursuit of a better future through science.

Job Positions and Requirements

Finance & Administration Officer

Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree and 3 years of experience, or Master’s degree and 1 years of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience, plus professional accounting training.

Work Experience: Experience working with financial and banking institutions in Ethiopia and a strong understanding of tax laws; 2 years of experience with US government-funded projects preferred.

Job Location: Jimma Regional office.

Salary: Negotiable/Per Scale.

No. Required: 1.

Agriculture Production Officer

Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, Rural Development, Agricultural Extension and Agronomy or related fields and 3 years of experience, or Master’s degree and 1 year of experience.

Work Experience: Experience in agricultural value chain development, stakeholder coordination, and partnership building.

Job Location: Jimma or other regional offices.

Salary: Negotiable/Per Scale.

No. Required: 1.

Agribusiness/Market Officer, Food for Progress SunGold project

Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, Rural Development and/or Business Administration and 3 years of experience, or Master’s degree and 1 years of experience.

Work Experience: Experience in agricultural value chain, agribusiness and market systems development, and improving market access.

Job Location: Jimma or other regional offices.

Salary: Negotiable/Per Scale.

No. Required: 1.

Agriculture Lead, Food for Progress SunGold Project

Educational Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, Rural Development, Agricultural Extension and Agronomy or related fields and 8 years of relevant experience, or Master’s degree and 6 years of experience.

Work Experience: Professional experience in agricultural value chain development, extension services, and edible oils production.

Job Location: Jimma.

Salary: Negotiable/Per Scale.

No. Required: 1.

Employment Type and Compensation

These positions offer full-time, stable employment within a 5-year international development program. RTI International provides a growth-oriented environment where employees are encouraged to excel and advance within the organization. We provide the necessary tools and support for our staff to navigate the complexities of international donor-funded projects while maintaining the highest professional standards.

The compensation package is competitive and designed to attract top-tier Ethiopian nationals who are committed to making a difference. In addition to a base salary that reflects the employee’s education and experience, RTI offers a multidisciplinary environment that fosters technical and operational expertise. We value integrity and motivation, ensuring that our team members are rewarded for their dedication to improving the human condition.

How to Apply

RTI International values a streamlined application process to identify the best candidates efficiently. We clearly state that scanned certificates, diplomas, or other attachments are NOT required during the initial application phase. Our recruitment team focuses on the skills, experience, and qualifications presented in your concise application documents.

Please be advised that original documents and authenticated credentials are required only for physical verification during the interview stage. This ensures that the process remains accessible while maintaining the high standards of integrity expected by RTI and our donors. We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these submission guidelines.

Due to the high volume of interest in our project, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further evaluation. Our selection process is rigorous, aiming to find individuals whose values align with our mission to pursuit a better future. We thank all applicants for their interest in joining our multidisciplinary team in Ethiopia.

The recruitment timeline involves a thorough review of CVs and cover letters immediately following the deadline. Candidates who progress to the interview stage will be notified of the next steps via the contact information provided in their application. We aim to complete the selection process in a timely manner to ensure the continued success of the SunGold project.

Interested candidates should submit their application via the official RTI careers portal as the primary channel. This ensures that your application is tracked correctly and reaches the appropriate hiring group for review. Please follow the specific links provided below for each respective position.