Research Associate

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Research Associate (Soil Science) to lead and oversee the soil sampling process across designated regions. The ideal candidate will be responsible for training field teams on soil sample collection, ensuring proper storage and dispatch of samples to designated laboratories, and monitoring field operations. This role also involves assisting state coordinators with other project-related activities as required.

Roles and Responsibilities

- Training Capacity Building:
- Train field teams on standardized soil sampling protocols, including collection, handling, storage, and transportation of soil samples.
- Conduct refresher training sessions as needed to maintain quality control.
- Field Operations Management:
- Oversee and monitor the entire soil sampling process to ensure adherence to guidelines and quality standards.
- Ensure proper labeling, packaging, and timely dispatch of soil samples to designated laboratories.
- Troubleshoot issues arising in the field and provide real-time guidance to field teams.
- Team Leadership Coordination:
- Manage, coordinate, and support the field team during the soil sampling period.
- Allocate resources efficiently to ensure timely completion of sampling activities.
- Provide feedback and performance evaluations for field teams.
- Quality Assurance Compliance:
- Ensure strict compliance with established soil sampling methodologies and safety protocols.
- Maintain accurate records of soil samples collected, dispatched, and tested.
- Implement quality control measures to minimize errors and contamination risks.
- Cross-State Training Support:
- Travel to other states as required to train new teams and support ongoing field operations.
- Reporting Documentation:
- Prepare regular reports on soil sampling progress, challenges, and solutions.
- Maintain detailed documentation of training sessions, team performance, and soil sample dispatch records.
- Communicate findings and updates to management and project stakeholders.

Qualifications

Requirements

- Master's degree in Soil Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or a related field.
- Minimum 2 years of experience in field team management, soil sampling, agricultural fieldwork, or laboratory analysis.
- Strong knowledge of soil analysis procedures and laboratory protocols.
- Experience in training and managing field teams is preferred.
- Willingness to travel extensively across states for training and operational support.
- Proficiency in local languages is an advantage.

Key Competencies

- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
- Attention to detail and commitment to quality standards.

Additional Information

What we offer

Join a small, ambitious, and international team and enjoy the following benefits:

- Competitive salary and benefits package (ESOP)
- Key role in shaping a fast-growing climate tech startup
- Support for learning & professional development
- A culture of undogmatic, unbureaucratic creativity and collaboration

Please note this job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Varaha is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This company does not discriminate in employment and personnel practices based on race, sex, age, handicap, religion, national origin or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. Hiring, transferring and promotion practices are performed without regard to the above listed items.