Plant Research Assistant (SOG/ST 3) - Bodles

KEY OUTPUTS

• Field and laboratory experiments laid out. 
• Experiments maintained and monitored. 
• Experimental data recorded and compiled 
• Material and physical resources for projects mobilized. 
• Pay bills for approval prepared and submitted 
• Samples submitted for diagnosis are received and recorded 
• Preliminary identification of pest/disease conducted. 
• Specimens are prepared, preserved and cultured 
• Laboratory equipment maintained and serviced 
• Assisted with the transfer of technology to students, farmers and extension officers. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITY AREAS

Technical/Professional Responsibilities 

• ? Assists with the implementation of field laboratory trials by preparation of the necessary equipment and materials, monitoring, processing and recording of the experimental data 
• ? Ensures that all procedures and treatments are executed as required according to specifics of experimental designs 
• ? Assists with the processing and preliminary diagnosis of pest problems and where possible give suggestions for their management 
• ? Prepares preservers, cultures or rears specimens for identification and research
• ? Assist in the preparation of reagents (chemicals) and other materials, and equipment required for laboratory and field experiments 
• ? Assists with the routine maintenance and servicing of tools and equipment used for routine work 
• ? Assists with preparation and maintaining detailed inventories for controlling and monitoring the use of equipment, supplies and materials; giving timely notice of needs for replacement to supervisor 
• ? Assists with transfer of technology to extension officers, farmers, open day, field days
• ? To accompany supervisors on farm visits and other holdings in relation to pest problems 
• ? Assists in the sourcing acquisition of materials, equipment and supplies for the assigned Plant Protection Unit 
• ? Helps in compiling and maintaining all relevant experimental, pest identification, diagnostic advisory and regulatory records where necessary 
• ? Attends workshops, seminars and training sessions 
• ? Performs other tasks assigned by or through his/her supervisor from time to time 

Other responsibilities 

• ? Performs a wide range of sundry tasks and activities assigned by or through supervisor 

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

• Experiments laid out correctly, according to project specifications
• Accurately collected data on a timely basis according to project specifications
• Experiments carefully managed in order to maintain the integrity of the research projects 
• Accurate records kept of experimental, diagnostic, advisory and regulatory work records 
• Prepared, prescribed and reared insect specimens according to specifications
• Excellent maintenance of laboratory space materials and equipment
• Experimental data recorded and compiled according to set standards
• Material and physical resources for projects mobilized according to set standards
• Pay bills for approval prepared and submitted within agreed timeframe
• Samples submitted for diagnosis are received and recorded within agreed timeframe and according to set standards 
• Preliminary identification of pest/disease conducted according to set standards
• Assisted with the transfer of technology to students, farmers and extension officers as required and within set timeframe 

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

Core

• Good interpersonal skills
• Good oral communication skills
• Good written communication skills
• Good problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Good teamwork and cooperation skills.
• Ability to use initiative
• Of good integrity
• Good planning and organising skills
• Good customer and quality focus skills  
• Good analytical thinking skills  

Technical

• Excellent knowledge of laboratory techniques
• Thorough knowledge of plant protection
• Knowledge of associated disciplines within and beyond Plant Protection
• Knowledge of the operations of Government / Knowledge of the Ministry’s policies and procedures
• Proficiency in the use of relevant computer applications  

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Associate degree in Agriculture from an accredited tertiary institution 

SPECIAL CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE JOB

• Exposure to hazardous pesticides and harmful laboratory reagents
• Exposure to dust, bacterial and fungal spores 
• Exposure to long hours of solar radiation in the field and also rain soak
• Exposure to steep hillside, woodlands, and other hazardous environment
• Risk associated with long distance road travel, often of – track in unfamiliar and high risks areas 
• Occasional long working hours 

AUTHORITY

• Nil

Please note that we thank all for responding, but only short-listed applicants will be contacted