Technical Assistant at Vert

About the Role

We are looking for a passionate and detail-oriented Technical Assistant to support our field operations. You will be the primary point of contact for our out-growers, responsible for transferring knowledge, ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards, and optimizing productivity from the field to the factory. 

Key Responsibilities

• Recruit and provide comprehensive training to out-growers on best agronomic practices, Integrated Crop & Pest Management (ICPM), and strict quality standards.
• Organize and lead farmer meetings, workshops, and field demonstrations to introduce new techniques and enhance productivity.
• Train farm workers on all production activities, including farm hygiene, crop husbandry, crop protection, harvesting, and export specifications.
• Assist in the planning and implementation of planting, weeding, spraying, and harvesting schedules.
• Monitor crop performance, conduct regular pest and disease surveillance, and assess soil health.
• Ensure strict compliance with safety and environmental regulations on all partner farms.
• Oversee the calibration of spray equipment and supervise all spray operations to ensure efficacy and safety.
• Manage "Block Release" for harvesting, verifying that all Pre-Harvest Intervals (PHIs) have been observed before crops are sent to the factory.
• Take sole responsibility for maintaining accurate and up-to-date farmer field records.
• Track crop progress, prepare harvest projections, and compare them against actual yields.
• Prepare detailed weekly reports on production status, challenges encountered, and actionable recommendations.
• Facilitate smooth and clear communication between the farmer base and factory operations to align supply with demand.
• Assist and support external audits to ensure continuous compliance with international standards, including FSSC 22000, HACCP, GLOBALGAP and other relevant regulatory standards.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Diploma in Agriculture, Crop Science, Agronomy, or a related field.
• Minimum 3 year of experience in a similar advisory or field assistant role within the agricultural sector.
• Strong knowledge of crop production cycles, ICPM, and food safety standards (e.g., HACCP, GLOBALGAP).

Skills & Competencies 

• Must be able to ride a motorcycle and possess a valid Driver's License.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with farmers and workers.
• Practical problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions in the field.
• Proficient in data collection, record-keeping, and report writing.
• Strong understanding of spray equipment, calibration, and chemical safety protocols.
• Ability to work independently in remote field locations and manage time effectively.
• A proactive attitude towards training and capacity building.