Job Description
a) Job Specifications
Duties and responsibilities: -
i. Sampling of agro-inputs, agricultural produce and products and environmental samples for quality and safety analysis;
ii. Sampling of agricultural produce and plant material for pest infestation and disease infection analysis;
iii. Analysis of agro-input, organic and inorganic trace contaminant in agricultural, microbiological and environmental samples or seed analysis or plant health and molecular biology analysis;
iv. Molecular analysis of plant materials, genetically modified organisms (GMO);
v. Preparation of reports and data analysis;
vi. Preparation of laboratory standards and reagents;
vii. Sample handling and preparation of media;
viii. Supervise cleaning and sterilization of laboratory glassware;
ix. Analytical work and maintenance of reference collection of insects, bacteria, fungi, nematodes, viruses, among others;
x. Implement and maintain Quality management system for good laboratory practice;
xi. Disease and pest diagnosis in plant materials and other regulated articles;
xii. Maintenance and updating records in area of operation including use of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS);
xiii. Seed health, purity, moisture, germination and viability testing.
b) Persons Specification
For appointment to this grade, a candidate must have: -
i. Higher National Diploma or Diploma in any of the following; Seed Technology, Laboratory Technology, Botany, Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Applied Microbiology, Applied Biology, And Plant Nutritionist or any other releva
ii. Have at least 2 years' work experience for Higher National Diploma;
iii. Have at least 4 years' work experience for Diploma and;
iv. Meets the provisions of the Chapter Six (6) of the Constitution of Kenya.
c) Skills
i. Computer applications proficiency;
ii. Team player;
iii. Creativity;
iv. Good communication skills;
v. Report writing and presentation skills.
d) Competencies
i. Ability to work under pressure;
ii. Ability to work independently and in a team;
iii. Demonstrated results in work performance;
iv. Knowledge of laboratory analysis using modern technologies;
v. Ability to identify plants, seeds, pests, diseases and weeds;
vi. Knowledge of equipment maintenance and calibration;
vii. Ability to work with minimum supervision;
viii. Experience with a laboratory Quality Management system.