Driver at Emali Dedicated Children's Agency

Overall Objectives of the position:

EDCA is implementing Dairy value chain in a collective which addresses challenges, optimizing production, enhancing the economic and social aspects of dairy farming in Makueni and Kajiado counties in Kenya. The organization is therefore looking for a driver to facilitate the successful implementation of the Project. Working closely with the Samli dairy farmers’ cooperative Society board members, Nembuya farmer field school staff, the driver will be responsible for the planning, implementation and reporting the progress of dairy value chain. He/she will be expected to develop and maintain a good relationship with the project participants, relevant Government Departments at the National and County level and all the stakeholders to deliver on his /her mandate. The position entails farmers and conservationists’ interaction hence upholding high standards of Eco-dairy is highly treasured.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Keep records of milk quantities, pick-up times, delivery times, and any relevant details for tracking and reporting purposes.
• Operate the vehicle in a safe and responsible manner, following all traffic laws, and adjust driving based on road and weather conditions.
• Ensure that milk is transported and delivered to the collection centers on time, preserving its freshness and quality.
• Keep the milk transport vehicle clean and sanitized at all times to avoid contamination.
• Check the vehicle before each trip, including refrigeration systems, to ensure the milk stays at the proper temperature and the vehicle is in good condition.
• Ensure the milk is kept at the proper chilled temperature during transport, using the refrigerated truck or insulated containers if required.
• Ensure all milk containers are properly sealed and stored to prevent contamination during transportation.
• Adhere to all local and national health and safety regulations regarding milk transport, including hygiene standards for both the vehicle and handling of the milk.
• Ensure that all required licenses, permits, and documentation for transporting milk are valid and up-to-date.
• Keep track of the quality of milk during transport, ensuring it remains within safe temperature ranges to avoid spoilage.
• Immediately inform the Samli Dairy FCS management about any issues with the milk (e.g., contamination, spoilage, or delays).
• Maintain clear communication with farmers and milk collection center personnel regarding pick-up schedules, delivery times, and any potential delays.
• Be courteous and professional while interacting with farmers and staff at the collection center.
• Ensure that milk containers are properly secured during transportation to prevent shifting or spillage.
• Regularly check and maintain the truck’s tires, brakes, and other essential components to ensure safe operation on the road.
• Be prepared for any emergencies such as accidents, breakdowns, or milk spillage, and know the proper steps to handle them.
• Dispose of any waste, such as packaging materials or spillage, responsibly to maintain hygiene and avoid environmental contamination.

Qualifications/Experience

• Valid and clean driver’s license appropriate for the vehicle (e.g class A3,B,C,C1)
• First aid certification (an added advantage).
• 1–2 years of commercial driving experience, particularly with heavy or refrigerated vehicles.
• Familiarity with operating refrigerated vehicles or temperature-controlled containers.
• Knowledge of local routes for timely deliveries.
• Previous experience transporting perishable items, such as food or dairy products (a plus).
• Attention to detail to ensure safe transport, cleanliness, and temperature control.
• Strong communication skills for interacting with farmers, collection center staff, and supervisors.
• Problem-solving skills to handle issues like breakdowns, delays, or emergencies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data analysis tools
• Willingness to travel frequently to field sites.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.