Technical 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 innovative agricultural research and practices that enhance the resilience of farming communities in South Asia. BISA aims to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability through research, outreach, and partnerships, contributing to the overall well-being of the communities it serves. For more information, visit their website at http://bisa.org/.

Job Overview:
The Technical Assistant position under the Climate Resilient Agriculture (CRA)-Madhya Pradesh Project is designed for dynamic, innovative, and service-oriented professionals. The role involves supporting the execution of participatory trials and demonstrations of climate-resilient crop varieties and agricultural practices. The Technical Assistant will be responsible for monitoring daily field activities, including irrigation, fertilizer application, and crop protection, while collecting data from farmers involved in participatory research trials. This position requires maintaining accurate records of inputs used and services provided to farmers, as well as preparing high-quality monthly technical reports for the Project Coordinator. Effective communication and collaboration with officials from the State Agriculture Department and other stakeholders are essential. The role may also involve additional tasks assigned by the supervisor, making adaptability and a proactive approach important for success in this position.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Assistant will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the execution of farmers' participatory trials and on-station demonstrations of climate-resilient crop varieties and agricultural practices.
• Monitoring day-to-day field activities such as irrigation, fertilizer application, and crop protection, ensuring adherence to project guidelines.
• Collecting and analyzing data from farmers' participatory research trials as directed by the supervisor.
• Keeping meticulous records of inputs used, machinery, and services provided to farmers, following the standard BISA format.
• Preparing and submitting high-quality monthly technical reports to the Project Coordinator based on the activities implemented.
• Liaising effectively with officials from the State Agriculture Department and other relevant stakeholders to facilitate project objectives.
• Performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to contribute to the project's success.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, complemented by at least 2 years of relevant experience in the field. A strong understanding of crop production techniques, including conservation agriculture, seed production, agronomic management, and familiarity with the latest agricultural machinery, is essential. The ideal candidate should also exhibit good organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in agriculture. This foundational education should provide candidates with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to agricultural practices and crop management. Candidates with additional certifications or training in specialized areas of agriculture may be viewed favorably, as they can bring enhanced expertise to the role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least 2 years of relevant experience in agriculture. This experience should ideally include hands-on involvement in crop production, field trials, and agricultural research. Familiarity with participatory research methodologies and experience working with farmers in a rural setting will be advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of effectively managing agricultural projects and collaborating with various stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

Languages:
Proficiency in the local language, Hindi, is mandatory for effective communication with farmers and local stakeholders. Additionally, a good command of English is required to prepare reports and communicate with the project team and international partners. Knowledge of other regional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
The Technical Assistant position is offered as an initial fixed-term contract of 1 year, with the possibility of annual renewal based on performance and the availability of funds. BISA provides an attractive remuneration package, which includes health insurance and other benefits. The organization encourages applications from women candidates and is committed to fostering a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Candidates interested in this opportunity must submit their applications via the online form by the deadline of 10th March 202

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps in the recruitment process.