Tupande Soko Laboratory Specialist (Fixed - Term) at One Acre Fund

About the Role

• Seeking an exceptional Laboratory Lead with 5+ years of experience to lead set-up, commissioning, and routine Laboratory operations to ensure Tupande processing is high-quality and food safe. The Lab Manager is responsible for ensuring the lab produces accurate results, remains legally compliant and operates efficiently to support factory production.

Responsibilities

Quality & Compliance

• ISO 17025 Lead: Build and maintain the quality systems to keep the lab internationally accredited.
• Audit Expert: Main point of contact for regulators (KENAS, NEMA, DOSHS). You fix system gaps before external inspectors find them.
• Accuracy Checks: Compare lab results with global benchmarks (Proficiency Testing) to prove data reliability.
• Document Master: Keep all manuals and testing methods (SOPs) updated according to International Standards.

Technical Leadership

• Method Expert: Approve all testing methods (Chemical/Microbiological) and create new ones for new products.
• Equipment Care: Manage the setup and maintenance of high-tech lab tools.
• Final Approval: Act as the final technical "sign-off" on all test certificates before products go from the factory.
• Problem Solver: Investigate failed tests to find out if the lab made a mistake or if there is a real issue in production.

Operations & Safety

• Expansion & Setup: Lead the technical side of building or growing lab facilities (plumbing, HVAC, etc.).
• Budgeting: Manage costs for chemicals and equipment maintenance.
• Safety & Waste: Enforce strict safety rules (PPE/Spills) and ensure hazardous waste is disposed of legally.

Success Metrics (KPIs)

• Speed: How fast samples move from the lab to the factory to final results (Turnaround time).
• Accuracy: Maintaining a zero-failure rate during external audits.
• Efficiency: Keeping the "cost per test" low by reducing waste.

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

• 5+ years of experience in a food/agricultural lab management role.
• Deep knowledge of ISO 17025, KENAS, and NEMA regulations. 
• Experience managing teams, budgets and complex projects.
• Proven ability in validating new testing methods and equipment.
• Experience in laboratory accreditation processes, equipment qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ), and method validation.