Consultancy Opportunity - Agrometeorologist

This is a re-advertisement. Those who had applied to the prior vacancy announcement do not need to re-apply.

Position: Consultancy Opportunity - Agrometeorologist
Term: 6 months 

Fees: INR 600 - INR 900 per hour
Location: Bangalore, Karnataka, India, with current and ongoing work authorization
Start Date: Immediate 

Posted on: April 9, 2024
Application deadline: April 30, 2024, 6pm IST (applications may be reviewed as they are submitted)

Background

PxD, through the Behaviour Change Advisory Services LLP (Technical Partner in India),  is looking for a skilled Agrometeorologist Consultant to support the development of climate conditional advisories for coffee farmers on a part-time basis. The role primarily involves remote work, with occasional visits to the Coffee Board Head Office in Bangalore. The ideal candidate will be responsible for analyzing meteorological data streams, identifying climate patterns, and leveraging agronomic knowledge to generate tailored advisories. This role requires a deep understanding of coffee agronomic practices, proficiency in meteorological data analysis, and the ability to effectively communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences.

We expect the commitment of around 4-5 hours per week initially, reducing to 2-3 hours per week post two months. The arrangement shall be valid for a minimum of six months. The fees for this assignment will be in the range of INR 600 - INR 900 per hour, depending on skills and experience of the consultant.

Responsibilities (including but not limited to): 

1. Data Analysis and Pattern Identification

• Analyze historical weather data and upcoming forecasts using a dashboard on a continuous basis to identify climate patterns at sub-block levels.

2. Climate Advisory Development

• Monitor emerging meteorological trends and developments to enhance advisory content and accuracy.

• Collaborate with PxD’s program and research teams to provide weather-sensitive recommendations for coffee cultivation practices.

3. Knowledge and Expertise

• Utilize climate patterns and agronomic expertise in coffee farming practices to develop content for climate conditional advisories and alerts. Ensure quality assurance and conduct through risk assessments

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of advancements in meteorological science and coffee agronomy.

• Contribute to research and innovation

4. Communication and Collaboration

• Communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders through reports, presentations, and training sessions, and contribute to regular documentation

• Work closely with IT and data analysis teams to optimize the dashboard for efficient data processing and analysis.

• Ensure adherence to project timelines, deadlines, and deliverables.

Required Qualifications and Skills

A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agrometeorology, Meteorology, Agricultural Science, or related field, and experience in the following domains are desired:

• Proven experience in analyzing meteorological data and interpreting weather patterns.

• Deep understanding of coffee agronomic practices, including cultivation, pest management, and harvesting techniques.

• Familiarity with the development of agronomic content, preferably in the coffee industry.

• Fluency in English. Demonstrated strong oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of Kannada is also preferred

• Ability to translate complex meteorological and agronomic terminology into simple, concise advisories. The ability to translate into Kannada is preferred, although not essential.

• Strong multitasking abilities with the capacity to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.

• Proficiency in data analysis tools and software, including Excel, GIS, and meteorological modeling platforms.

• Detail-oriented approach with a focus on accuracy and precision in data analysis and reporting.

• Adaptability to evolving project requirements and changing priorities.

Desired Qualifications:

• Prior experience working in the agriculture or coffee industry.

• Knowledge of local coffee farming practices and conditions in relevant regions.

• Experience with remote sensing techniques and satellite imagery analysis.

• Familiarity with climate-resilient agriculture practices and adaptation strategies.

This consultancy offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of climate-smart agricultural solutions for coffee farmers and make a meaningful impact on sustainable farming practices. If you are passionate about leveraging meteorological insights to support coffee cultivation and are committed to driving positive change in the agricultural sector, we encourage you to apply.

How to apply 

To be considered for this consultancy opportunity, please visit the PxD website and use the online application form to submit your CV, and a Cover Letter with a description of relevant experience of related projects. Submissions will be reviewed as they are received on a rolling basis until the application deadline of April 30, 2024, 6pm IST. 

PxD is committed to building an inclusive and diverse organization. We don’t make decisions based on gender, gender identity, class, ethnicity, sexual orientation or any other personal characteristics that are unrelated to the role. We understand that everyone has different lifestyles and we accommodate flexible working to make sure you are as productive and happy as you can be.

We will use any personal data you provide for recruitment purposes only.

About PxD

Precision Development (PxD) is a global non-profit organization that harnesses technology, data science, and behavioral economics to build digital services that empower people to change their own lives. By providing actionable information to the right people, in the right way and at the right time, PxD empowers smallholder farmers to improve their productivity, increase their profitability, and advance environmental sustainability. PxD has worked in ten countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America, reaching over 10 million users by the end of 2023.

PxD’s activities in India are implemented in partnership with Behavior Change Advisory Services (BCAS) LLP (Technical Partner in India).