Farm Operations Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Borlaug Institute for South Asia (BISA) is a non-profit international research institute focused on addressing food, nutrition, and livelihood security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, as well as environmental rehabilitation in South Asia. Established to combat the challenges faced by over 300 million undernourished individuals in the region, BISA operates in collaboration with CIMMYT and the Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR). The organization is dedicated to conducting research that leads to sustainable agricultural practices and improved food systems. BISA aims to enhance the livelihoods of farmers and communities through innovative agricultural solutions and partnerships. More information can be found on their website: http://bisa.org/.

Job Overview:
The Farm Operations Assistant position at BISA is designed for an individual who is self-motivated and results-oriented, tasked with overseeing various farm operations. This role encompasses managing seed production processes, inventory control, procurement activities, and ensuring financial compliance. The assistant will play a crucial role in the administrative coordination necessary for the effective functioning of the BISA Research Station and its associated units. The position requires a proactive approach to managing farm operations, ensuring that all activities are documented accurately and that the farm runs smoothly and efficiently. The successful candidate will be expected to maintain high standards of quality and compliance in all aspects of farm management, from seed production to financial oversight.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Inventory & Stock Management: The assistant will manage and maintain the Stock Register of consumables using the FIFO (First-In-First-Out) method, ensuring accurate records of inventory, consumables, and standing crops. They will prepare valuations for seeds, consumables, and crops in the field.
• Farm Operations & Documentation: This includes monitoring and controlling farm operations, recording activities, issuing indents, Purchase Requisitions (PR), Goods Receipt Notes (GRN), Stock Return Notes (SRN), and gate passes. The assistant will follow proper procedures for procurement and disposal of farm produce and maintain an updated production register documenting all production activities.
• Seed Production & Processing: The role involves preparing and maintaining accurate records for seed processing, managing the Seed Production Unit, and ensuring compliance with quality standards. The assistant will also prepare and maintain the sales register for seeds and/or grains sold during the year.
• Vendor & Financial Coordination: The assistant will oversee vendor management, ensuring timely submission and settlement of bills and invoices, and adherence to financial, administrative, HR, and procurement guidelines as per organizational policies. Coordination with Finance for documentation and settlement processes is also required.
• Facility & Asset Management: Responsibilities include managing the BISA Training Hostel, ensuring compliance with insurance and safety standards, maintaining the fixed asset register, and ensuring proper maintenance of farm equipment and facilities.
• Systems & Software Management: The assistant will maintain manual records and operate ERP systems such as SAP / D365, generating accurate reports and ensuring timely data submission to relevant teams.
• Additional Responsibilities: This includes maintaining structured records of farm activities, ensuring data accuracy and timeliness in reporting, supporting routine farm and administrative operations, and performing any other duties assigned by the supervisor to support farm and project operations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, agribusiness, or a related field. Proficiency in ERP systems, particularly D365, is essential. The role requires a minimum of 3 years of experience in farm operations, seed production/processing, or agribusiness. Candidates should have hands-on experience with ERP systems for inventory or operations management, practical experience in inventory handling, stock management, and coordination within warehouse/seed units. A strong knowledge of farm operations, seed processing, and inventory management is crucial. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate strong communication and coordination skills with vendors, farmers, or field teams, and be proficient in basic Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, agribusiness, or a closely related field. This educational foundation is essential to understand the complexities of farm operations and the agricultural sector, enabling the candidate to effectively manage the various responsibilities associated with the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in farm operations, seed production/processing, or agribusiness. Candidates should have practical experience in managing farm activities, overseeing seed production processes, and handling inventory management. This level of experience is necessary to ensure that the candidate can effectively contribute to the operational success of the BISA Research Station.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential for communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. Knowledge of local languages may also be beneficial for effective communication with local farmers and vendors.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered as an initial fixed-term contract of 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and the continued availability of funds. BISA provides an attractive remuneration package, which includes health insurance and other benefits. Candidates are required to apply online for the position of Farm Operations Assistant in Jabalpur, and applications must include a CV with contact details of three work-related references, along with a cover letter. Incomplete applications will not be considered, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. BISA is committed to fostering a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity, and encourages women to apply.