Job Description

Job Title: Agricultural Field Technician / Crop Specialist

Department: Agriculture / Farming

Reports To: Field Operations Manager / Agricultural Manager

Position Summary:

The Agricultural Field Technician / Crop Specialist is responsible for overseeing and optimizing crop production in the field. This role requires expertise in crop management, soil health, pest and disease management, and technical knowledge related to farming practices. The individual will collaborate with farmers, researchers, and agronomists to improve crop yields, implement best practices, and ensure the sustainable use of agricultural resources.

Key Responsibilities:

• Field Management:
• Conduct field visits to monitor crop growth, health, and overall conditions.
• Implement soil testing, irrigation systems, and nutrient management practices.
• Provide field support for planting, irrigation, and harvesting.
• Supervise or assist in land preparation, crop rotation, and sowing.
• Crop Knowledge:
• Develop expertise in a range of crops (e.g., cereals, vegetables, fruits) and their growth cycles.
• Analyze the suitability of different crops for specific environments or soil conditions.
• Advise on optimal planting times, crop protection measures, and harvesting schedules.
• Implement best practices for pest and disease management.
• Technical Expertise:
• Use modern agricultural tools, technologies, and machinery, including GPS systems, drones, and automated systems, to improve efficiency.
• Conduct and interpret field trials for new agricultural technologies, equipment, and crop varieties.
• Implement precision farming techniques to enhance productivity and reduce waste.
• Maintain accurate records of field conditions, crop performance, and technical applications.
• Sustainability and Resource Management:
• Ensure adherence to sustainable agricultural practices and environmental regulations.
• Promote organic farming and soil conservation techniques.
• Oversee the proper use of water resources, fertilizers, and pesticides.
• Training and Support:
• Provide guidance and training to farm workers and junior staff on agricultural best practices.
• Organize workshops or training sessions on new agricultural methods and crop management techniques.
• Collaboration and Reporting:
• Work with agronomists, agricultural extension officers, and other technical staff to improve crop production and solve challenges.
• Prepare and submit reports on crop health, production progress, and technical improvements.
• Analyze data from field activities and generate recommendations for crop improvement.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Science, Horticulture, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Proven experience in agricultural fieldwork, crop management, or related roles.
• Strong knowledge of crop types, growth cycles, pests, diseases, and fertilizers.
• Experience using agricultural technologies and equipment (e.g., drones, GPS systems, irrigation systems).

Skills & Competencies:

• Technical Knowledge: Understanding of farming technologies, crop protection, pest control, irrigation systems, and farm machinery.
• Crop Management: Knowledge of crop varieties, planting techniques, fertilization, and harvesting schedules.
• Problem Solving: Ability to diagnose crop-related issues (e.g., pest infestations, nutrient deficiencies) and offer solutions.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to interpret field data and recommend improvements.
• Communication Skills: Ability to explain complex agricultural concepts to non-experts.
• Teamwork and Leadership: Collaborate with other team members and lead training sessions for workers.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in precision agriculture, pest management, or other relevant agricultural practices.
• Experience in organic farming, sustainable agricultural practices, or farm management software.
• Knowledge of climate-smart agriculture techniques and practices.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions.
• Physical ability to lift heavy objects and perform fieldwork activities.
• Comfortable with using agricultural machinery and equipment.

Work Environment:

• Primarily based in agricultural fields with occasional office work.
• Frequent travel between farms and field sites may be required.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Shift:

• Day shift

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

• 5years: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person