Senior Laboratory Technologist at Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS)

Job Specification
Duties and Responsibilities:

• Sampling of agro-inputs, agricultural produce and products and environmental samples for quality and safety analysis;
• Sampling of agricultural produce and plant material for pest infestation and disease infection analysis;
• 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;
• Molecular analysis of plant materials, genetically modified organisms (GMO);
• Preparation of reports and data analysis;
• Preparation of laboratory standards and reagents;
• Sample handling and preparation of media;
• Supervise cleaning and sterilization of laboratory glassware;
• Analytical work and maintenance of reference collection of insects, bacteria, fungi, nematodes, viruses, among others;
• Implement and maintain Quality management system for good laboratory practice;
• Disease and pest diagnosis in plant materials and other regulated articles;
• Maintenance and updating records in area of operation including use of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS);
• Seed health, purity, moisture, germination and viability testing.

Person Specification

For appointment to this grade a candidate must have:

• 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 relevant diploma;
• Have at least 2 years’ work experience for Higher National Diploma;
• Have at least 4 years’ work experience for Diploma and;
• Meets the provisions of the Chapter Six (6) of the Constitution of Kenya.

Skills

• Computer applications proficiency;
• Team player;
• Creativity;
• Good communication skills;
• Report writing and presentation skills.

Competencies

• Ability to work under pressure;
• Ability to work independently and in a team;
• Demonstrated results in work performance;
• Knowledge of laboratory analysis using modern technologies;
• Ability to identify plants, seeds, pests, diseases and weeds;
• Knowledge of equipment maintenance and calibration;
• Ability to work with minimum supervision;
• Experience with a laboratory Quality Management system