Job Description: Agronomist Position

Title: Agronomist

Location: Solapur, Dist- Solapur, Maharashtra

Job Type: Full-time

Reporting To: Project Manager

About MANAVLOK:

In 1982, Dr. Dwarkadasji Lohiya laid the foundation of Marathwada Navnirman Lokayat (MANAVLOK), a voluntary organisation, working for the socio-economic upliftment of the rural poor in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra State in India. The organisation is working in the sectors of Watershed, Agriculture, Disaster Relief Services, Gender Equality, Elder and Disabled care, as an approach to integrated rural development.

Job Overview:

MANAVLOK is seeking a dedicated and passionate Agriculture Professional to join its agriculture program in Solapur, Maharashtra. The role requires proven experience in field-based agricultural operations, farmer mobilization, livelihood promotion, implementation of sustainable agricultural practices, and exposure to agri-allied enterprises. The candidate should possess strong field management skills to ensure effective implementation of program activities at the project site.

The Agronomist will be responsible for field monitoring, conducting technical trainings, strengthening farmers’ capacities, and overseeing site operations. The role involves data-driven assessments, timely documentation and reporting, and promoting appropriate agri-allied technologies and practices that enhance farmers’ livelihoods. This position is ideal for professionals who are passionate about specific aspects of onion production and committed to working closely with rural communities in a challenging field environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. Crop Planning & Technical Field Support

Field Monitoring: Conduct regular field visits to monitor crop health and provide real-time troubleshooting for pests and diseases.

Agronomic Guidance: Guide farmers on best practices, focusing on season specific planning, soil conditions, and water availability.

FPC Strengthening: Build and maintain strong relationships with farmers to ensure high retention and trust within the FPC network.

Cost Optimization: Implement strategies to reduce unnecessary input usage, helping farmers optimize their overall production costs.

2. Soil Health & Input Management

Soil Testing: Conduct and interpret soil tests to provide crop-specific nutrient recommendations from sowing to harvest.

Advisory Services: Recommend balanced and scientific use of fertilizers, pesticides, and specialized nutrients.

Climate Resilience: Promote climate-resilient farming practices to mitigate weather-related risks.

3. Onion Seed Production Program

Initiative Leadership: Lead and monitor dedicated onion seed production programs to ensure high yield and genetic uniformity.

Quality Standards: Implement strict quality control and traceability protocols across all participating farms.

4. Farmer Training & Capacity Building

Educational Outreach: Organize "Farm Schools," field demonstrations, and exposure visits to promote scientific farming.

Onboarding: Act as the primary technical bridge for onboarding new farmers and training them on advanced seed production techniques.

5. Data Management & Reporting

Data Tracking: Maintain accurate, farmer-wise digital records of acreage, yield, and agronomic practices.

Management Reporting: Provide regular reports on productivity trends, input usage, and program outcomes to the management team.

6. Value Chain Integration

Market Alignment: Align production schedules and quality with market requirements (size, grade, and uniformity).

Post-Harvest Support: Support farmers in optimal harvesting timing, grading, and handling to minimize losses.

Eligibility Criteria:

Education

● Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Agronomy, Agriculture, or a related field

Experience

● 3–5 years of experience in field agronomy or extension services, ideally with specific experience in onion production within the development/NGO sector.

● Demonstrated experience in promoting agri-allied enterprises and implementing agriculture-based livelihood programs with farming communities.

● Willingness to work in a remote rural setting.

● Readiness to undertake extensive field travel and closely engage with farmers and community stakeholders.

Skills & Competencies:

● Knowledge or prior exposure to extension services, ideally with specific experience in onion production.

● Strong understanding of agricultural field operations, soil management, best agricultural practices, and Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

● Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and maintain strong relationships with rural communities.

● Strong interpersonal skills for building rapport with rural communities.

● High Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

● Mandatory Language Proficiency: Fluency in Marathi is mandatory, Hindi and English (speaking, writing, typing).

Essential Requirements ● Ownership of a two-wheeler with a valid driving license is mandatory due to extensive field mobility requirements.

Personal Attributes:

● Mission-driven with a passion for rural development and social impact.

● Empathetic, approachable, and culturally sensitive to work with diverse rural communities.

● Flexible, adaptable, and willing to relocate to Solapur, Dist- Solapur, Maharashtra.

● Strong work ethic with a collaborative and team-oriented mindset.

● Willing to travel to field locations and adapt to varied working condition.

Compensation & Benefits:

● Salary Range: ₹25,000 - ₹30,000 per month, depending on skills and experience.

● Medical Insurance: As per organizational policy

● Provident Fund (PF): As per applicable statutory norms

● Professional Development: Opportunities for training and career growth in the social sector.

How to Apply: Interested candidates are requested to fill out the Google Form.

MANAVLOK is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our commitment to rural development and social justice.

Pay: ₹25,000.00 - ₹30,000.00 per month

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Provident Fund

Work Location: In person