Sr. Agriculture Specialist

Call for Applications for Sr. Agri Specialist – ANNAM.AI

Location:
ANNAM.AI, Center of Excellence in AI for Agriculture, IIT Ropar (Onsite preferred; hybrid/remote may also be considered)

Type:
Full-Time | Contractual | Renewable based on performance

Compensation:
₹8 - 12 Lakhs per annum (Based on qualifications and experience)

Performance Incentives: Additional incentives based on performance and outcomes, subject to Governing Board approval

Tenure:
Initial appointment for 2 years, extendable up to 5 years

Age Limit:
Preferably under 45 years; Minimum experience of 3+ years

Role Summary

As the Sr. Agri Specialist of ANNAM.AI, you will be responsible for executing agricultural innovation programs that integrate AI with farming practices. You will play a key role in implementing field-level pilots, conducting applied agricultural research, and enabling farmer adoption of digital tools.

This position is ideal for an agricultural professional with strong domain expertise, hands-on program management skills, and a passion for bridging technology with farming communities to create tangible impact.

Key Responsibilities

1. Applied Research & Program Implementation

Support agricultural research initiatives to identify use cases for AI in precision farming, crop management, and natural resource optimization.

Lead the design and execution of pilot projects, ensuring scalability and farmer adoption.

Work closely with technology teams to translate field requirements into usable AI-driven tools.

2. Farmer-Centric Initiatives

Develop farmer outreach, training, and awareness programs on AI-enabled agriculture.

Facilitate adoption of digital tools in areas such as soil health, irrigation scheduling, pest management, and yield forecasting.

Collect and analyze farmer feedback to continuously improve program effectiveness.

3. Partnerships & Ecosystem Support

Engage with ICAR institutions, state agriculture departments, NGOs, and farmer producer organizations (FPOs).

Build working relationships with startups and agri-businesses for technology validation and scale-up.

Contribute to donor, CSR, and government-supported agricultural initiatives.

4. Knowledge & Policy Contributions

Prepare field reports, research briefs, and case studies on AI applications in agriculture.

Support senior leadership in providing policy recommendations to relevant government agencies.

Assist in knowledge-sharing activities such as workshops, training sessions, and conferences.

5. Team Collaboration & Mentorship

Mentor junior researchers, project staff, and field coordinators.

Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of agricultural experts, AI specialists, and innovation managers.

Contribute to creating a farmer-first and impact-oriented culture within ANNAM.AI.

Candidate Profile

• Educational Qualifications & Skills
• Graduate/Postgraduate degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Horticulture, Soil Science, Plant Sciences, or related disciplines from a reputed institution.
• Strong understanding of farming practices, digital agriculture solutions, and rural deployment models.
• Knowledge of AI applications in agriculture will be an advantage.
• Professional Experience
• Minimum 3–7 years of professional experience in agricultural research, extension services, or agri-tech projects.
• Hands-on experience in implementing field programs or technology-driven agricultural solutions.
• Exposure to government projects, NGOs, or FPO-based initiatives is preferred.
• Experience in engaging with farmers, startups, and agriculture ecosystem stakeholders will be an added advantage.
• Performance-Based Incentives
• The Sr. Agri Specialist will be eligible for performance-based incentives, subject to periodic reviews and Board approval. Incentives will be outcome-driven and aligned with ANNAM.AI's long-term mission.

Separation Clause

One month's notice in year one, two months in subsequent years, or salary in lieu.

Application Process

Submit your application through the Zoho Recruit portal.

Subject Line: Application for Sr. Agri Specialist – ANNAM.AI

Deadline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.