Consultant (Technical assistance Agronomy)

The International Potato Center (CIP) is a global, non-profit research organization that works to improve food security, nutrition, and incomes in developing countries through research and innovation in root and tuber crops-primarily potatoes and sweet potatoes.

CIP's focus areas encompass a range of strategic priorities aimed at improving agricultural systems and livelihoods. These include crop improvement through the development of climate-resilient, high-yielding, and disease-resistant varieties of potatoes and sweet potatoes; sustainable farming by promoting environmentally friendly and resource-efficient agricultural practices; and nutrition and food systems, particularly through the use of biofortified crops. CIP also works to strengthen value chains and market access by supporting smallholder farmers in building inclusive and profitable value chains, while enhancing climate resilience by helping farming systems adapt to the impacts of climate change.

CGIAR Science Program of Scaling for Impact promotes potato cultivation through zero tillage with rice straw mulching in Odisha. Thirty farmers have been selected in two districts of Puri and Khurda with a specific focus on women farmers and women-led producer companies.

Given that this is the first attempt for CIP to formally introduce PZTM in Odisha, we need close monitoring and supervision. To achieve this, a CONSULTANT (Technical assistance Agronomy) - Part Time with agronomy background will be hired.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support organizing farmer field days during planting and harvesting in three locations in November
• Field monitoring of 30 farmers' plots from November to January (every two weeks)
• Data collection in 30 farmers' plots during the harvesting
• Basic data analysis on the data collected from farmers' plots
• Communicating with farmers by phone or in-person for administrative and technical matters

Education:

• Graduation Degree in Crop Sciences and related fields in agriculture and development

Experience:

• 2 years of relevant experience
• Good communication skills, English & Odia (for local communication with farmers)
• The consultant will be required to frequent travel between Bhubaneswar, Puri & Khurda

The initial contractual appointment for this position will be valid until March 2026. This is a part-time consultancy role, offered at a daily fee of INR 1,200. The engagement will require 12 working days per month, resulting in a total consultancy fee of INR 14,400 per month.

CIP is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified women are particularly encouraged to apply.