Job Description
a) Job Specifications
Duties and responsibilities: -
i. Conduct chemical analysis on agricultural inputs, soil fertility evaluation, irrigation water suitability for support of farmers to assure improved productivity and food security;
ii. Conduct pesticide residues and contaminants analysis in agricultural produce for compliance to food safety standards and national, regional international market requirements;
iii. Conduct microbiological analysis on food and environmental samples for compliance to food safety requirements;
iv. Undertake accurate detection and identification of regulated and non-regulated quarantine pests to support phytosanitary and seed regulations;
v. Undertake Tissue culture cleanup and micro-propagation of plants and germplasm maintenance;
vi. Undertake Genetically Modified Organisms testing for detection, identification and quantification of events in support of the Biosafety act of 2009 and its regulations;
vii. Participate in identification of risks related to laboratory activities to minimize, leverage and identify potential challenges before they occur;
viii. Receive samples and maintain LIMS database;
ix. Verify and validate the correctness of test results by counter checking raw data and forwarding for approval;
x. Perform tests on proficiency testing, inter-laboratory and intra-laboratory samples comparisons organized in the division.as a quality assurance and control measure to ensure validity of results;
xi. Maintains stock level for chemicals, reagents, glassware and equipment and other consumables by; developing specifications, evaluation and inspection to ensure seamless provision of laboratory services;
xii. Implements the quality management system based on ISO/IEC 17025 to attain process efficiency, continual improvement and facilitate trade;
xiii. Performs scheduled in-house maintenance, calibration, intermediate checks and monitoring on assigned equipment to maintain accuracy of measurements;
xiv. Implements and provides input in review of the laboratory quality systems;
xv. Participates in approved supervised pesticide residue field trials programs;
xvi. Collates data on the performance of the laboratory through quarterly and annual reports to monitor compliance to Customer service charter;
xvii. Participates in development and review of laboratory Protocols and Standard Operating;
xviii. Procedures for suitability and relevance in line with international standard requirements;
xix. Prepares and submits individual performance reports highlighting compliance to set targets;
xx. Implementation of method validation plans for various analytical procedures;
xxi. Sampling of agro-inputs, agricultural produce and products and environmental samples for quality and safety analysis and plant material for pest infestation and disease infection analysis;
xxii. Conduct national surveillance, sampling and monitoring programs for plant pests, seeds and other regulated articles for phytosanitary and seed certification purposes;
xxiii. Support Pest Risk Analysis activities to advice on pest status and update pest listing the country;
xxiv. Support laboratory research activities towards strengthening phytosanitary and seed regulation;
xxv. Carry out food safety audits to check compliance to set market requirements;
xxvi. Preparation of analytical reference standards solutions, reagents for the various laboratory methods;
xxvii. Diagnose, troubleshoots and conducts preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment to assure accuracy of measurements;
xxviii. Participate in stakeholder training, awareness and technological advice on food safety, plant health, quality of agro-inputs, soil and irrigation water quality for enhanced agricultural productivity;
xxix. Support research and development programs of the Service.
b) Persons Specification
For appointment to this grade, a candidate must have: -
i. Bachelor of Science Degree in any of the following; Agriculture, Horticulture, Seed Technology, Botany, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Applied Microbiology, Applied Biology, Applied Biological Science,
ii. Applied Biological Technology and Plant Nutritionist from a university recognized in Kenya; and
iii. Meets the provisions of the Chapter Six (6) of the Constitution of Kenya.
c) Skills
i. Computer applications proficiency. Knowledge in statistical packages will be an added advantage;
ii. Good analytical skills;
iii. Data handling skills;
iv. Problem solving skills
v. Good communication skills; and
vi. Report writing and presentation skills.
d) Competencies
i. Ability to work well under pressure;
ii. Ability to multi-task and prioritize work;
iii. Ability to work independently and in a team;
iv. Excellent and the ability to make decisions independently.
v. Knowledge in laboratory instrumentation and/or electronics and computer engineering;
vi. Knowledge in international standards on good laboratory practice; and
vii. Knowledge of Laboratory Quality Management System;