Job Details

Job Description

Stewards Globe Limited – Afriseed an equal opportunity employer invites applications from suitably qualified experienced individuals for the following position:

Job Title: Seed Production Field Agronomist
Department: Production
Location: Lusaka
Position Summary:
The Seed Production Field Agronomist plays a crucial role in ensuring the successful production of high-quality seeds. This position is responsible for overseeing and optimizing seed production activities, In addition, the job holder is involved in planning and executing agronomic practices, managing field operations, ensuring adherence to quality standards. working closely with farmers to implement best agricultural practices, monitor crop health, and oversee seed production activities from planting to harvesting in order to enhance crop yield, seed quality, and overall efficiency in seed production

Key Responsibilities:

1. Crop Planning and Management:

• Develop comprehensive crop plans considering planting schedules, fertilization, irrigation, and pest control.
• Implement best agronomic practices to optimize crop growth, maximize yield, and maintain seed quality.

2. Field Operations Management

• Collaborate with farmers to execute seed production activities, including land preparation, planting, irrigation, fertilization, and pest control.
• Oversee all aspects of field operations including planting, cultivation, irrigation, and harvesting
• Monitor crop growth and health throughout the growing season, identifying and addressing any issues that may arise.
• Conduct regular field inspections to ensure compliance with seed production standards and regulations
• Implement pest and disease control measures, ensuring the health and vitality of seed crops.
• Carrying out of accurate yield estimates for the crops in order to input into harvest and marketing plans

3. Seed Crop Aggregation

• Issuing of seed collection notes to growers for the crop purchased.
• Compiling of crop payment schedules for all seed crop delivered to the warehouse.
• Ensuring that all seed volumes on all seed collection notes match with physical seed volumes on the ground.
• Ensuring that all seeds are transported to warehouse in Lusaka in way that will not negatively affect seed quality.

4. Quality Assurance

• Implement specific quality control measures to maintain the genetic purity and viability of seed crops.
• Collect and analyse data on seed production processes and crop performance to identify areas for improvement.
• Coordinate with seed testing laboratories to conduct germination tests and other quality assessments.
• Enforce and monitor adherence to quality assurance protocols throughout the seed production process.
• Conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements.

5. Technical Support and Training

• Provide technical guidance and support to farmers on seed production best practices, including variety selection, planting techniques, and crop management.
• Conduct training sessions and workshops for farmers and farm workers on seed production techniques, agronomy principles, and pest management strategies.

6. Technical Support and Training

• Provide technical guidance and support to farmers on seed production best practices, including variety selection, planting techniques, and crop management.
• Conduct training sessions and workshops for farmers and farm workers on seed production techniques, agronomy principles, and pest management strategies.

7. Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of field activities, crop inputs, and production outcomes.
• Prepare reports on crop performance, seed yields, and quality metrics for internal and external stakeholders.

8. Liaison Function

• Application for orange international certificates (OICs)
• Application for non-GMO certificates
• Application for phytosanitary certificate
• Seed Lot number application
• Seed Sample delivery to SCCI for certification
• Organizing of seed import documentation

9. Research and Development

• Stay updated on advancements in seed production technology, agronomic research, and industry trends.
• Participate in research trials and field experiments to evaluate new seed varieties, cultivation practices, and crop protection products.
• Collaborate with breeding and research teams to identify promising seed traits and production methods.
• Collaborate with the Research and Development team to provide insights on agronomic practices for the development of new seed varieties.
• Participate in field trials to evaluate the performance of newly developed varieties

Qualifications:

• Minimum BSc in Agronomy or Crop Science, or related field,
• Certificate in seed inspection,
• Strong knowledge of crop physiology, agronomic practices, and pest management techniques.

REQUIRED MINIMUM WORK EXPERIENCE:
Two (2) years proven experience in seed production, agricultural extension, or agronomic consulting.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit their resume, copies of educational and professional qualifications, NRC and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and accomplishments as 1 PDF document to [email protected].

The closing date for receipt of applications is 3rd April 2024 . Please note that only shortlisted candidate will be contacted. Stewards Globe – Afriseed is an equal opportunity employer.
Women are encouraged to apply