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

Job Description

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Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) is the government parastatal whose responsibility is to assure the quality of agricultural inputs and produce to prevent adverse impact on the economy, the environment and human health. Vision: Healthy plants, safe trade and sustainable aggro-environment for a prosperous Kenya. Mission: To provide a science based regulatory service by assuring plant health, quality of agricultural inputs and produce for food security, globally competitive agriculture and sustainable development.

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 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