Tupande Microbiology Senior Coordinator (Fixed-Term) at One Acre Fund

About the Role

• We are looking for a Microbiology Coordinator to help us build and run our brand-new food testing lab. You will make sure our food is safe for customers and help our farmers by ensuring their products meet high-quality standards. You will report to the Laboratory Specialist and lead a small team of 1 to 2 people.

Responsibilities

Pathogen Detection & Analytical Excellence

• Find Dangerous Microorganisms and Pathogens: utilising Microbiological methods, PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) platforms to detect microorganisms like Salmonella and Listeria.
• Check Food Freshness: Test for yeast, mold, and other signs to see how long food stays fresh.
• Verify Methods: Make sure our testing methods follow technical standards such as ISO/IEC 17025 and we get the testing results right every time. You are expected to be a real expert in microbiological testing methods and practice.

Factory Hygiene & Cleaning Checks

• Surface Swabs: Wipe down factory floors and machines to prove they are truly clean and sterile.
• Air & Water Testing: Test the air in packaging rooms and the water used to wash food to make sure no germs are hiding there.

Laboratory Care & Safety

• Prepare Testing Materials: Mix and sterilize the "media" (germ food) used for tests and make sure it works correctly.
• Machine Maintenance: Look after lab equipment like incubators and autoclaves to keep them working perfectly.
• Keep it Sterile: Follow strict "clean" rules to make sure no one gets sick in the lab and samples don't get mixed up.

Traceability & Chain of Custody

• Track Everything: Keep a clear list of every sample from the moment it arrives until it is disposed
• Report Problems: If a test shows a problem, note this down immediately and tell the manager.

Career Growth and Development

• We have a strong culture of constant learning and we invest in developing our people. You'll have weekly check-ins with your manager, access to mentorship and training programs, and regular feedback on your performance. We hold career reviews every six months, and set aside time to discuss your aspirations and career goals. You'll have the opportunity to shape a growing organization and build a rewarding long-term career.

Qualifications

• 3+ years working in a microbiology lab (Food Industry is best).
• A Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology or Food Science.
• You know how to use PCR/ELISA machines and how to grow and test germs safely.
• You understand how to keep a lab safe and how to clean lab tools properly.
• You can manage 1–2 staff members and plan the daily work
• You can explain science in simple words and write good reports.
• You are great at following a plan and keeping track of details.

End Date 16th August 2026