Careers

Field Technical Assistant (2 Positions) - Narok & Kericho Counties

Posted 2 years ago

JOB TITLE: Field Technical Assistant (2 positions)

JOB TYPE: Full time on contract employment

LOCATION: In Narok and Kericho Counties.

SUPERVISOR/MANAGER: Regional Field Coordinator or designated authority

BACKGROUND

Biofarms Limited is a leading horticultural production and marketing company, specializing in fruits, mainly avocado, mango, pineapple, coconut, and passion fruits. We envision to be the leading dealer and exporter of organic certified Fruits in Kenya. Biofarms prides itself in quality and reliability, positioning as a supplier of choice in the horticulture export sector. Please refer to our website www.biofarms.co.ke for further information

PURPOSE OF JOB/Position

The position is under the Avocado value chain and primarily focus on avocado farmer mobilization and integration in Biofarms Limited supply chain in Narok and Kericho Counties.

MAIN DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

Under the direct supervision of the Field and Outgrowers Manager and / or designated authority, the position will be responsible for farmer mobilization in one of the designated regions and lead in identification and recruitment of out- growers (farmers and farmer groups), technical extension support, harvesting coordination/supervision as well as farm compliance.

Specifically, you will undertake the following roles and responsibilities.

1. identifying and mobilizing avocado farmers (individual farmers and farmer groups) in Biofarms Limited supply chain.

2. Provide technical support to farmers to ensure increased and sustained production and supply in line with company targets.

3. Ensure sustainable avocado production for smallholder farmers to promote increased incomes for farmers.

4. Provide extension services on crop-husbandry and post-harvest management to farmers.

5. Ensure that newly engaged farmers are well inducted and trained on agronomic practices in avocado production.

6. Regularly conduct food safety and quality checks to determine areas of improvement and ensure the systems meet Global GAP, Social and Environmental requirements, and any other standards the company may be implementing.

7. In case of non-compliances, follow up with Technical Manager to ensure such are addressed and closed in timely manner.

8. Ensure farmers maintain updated records on production and crop management in line with good agricultural practices.

9. Act as the custodian of all company records and documents in oversight.

10. Conduct spot checks on contracted farms to verify that policies and procedures are implemented as required.

11. Prepare weekly monitoring reports on accomplished tasks and make recommendation on actions requiring urgent attention.

12. Develop harvesting program in close consultation with the operations and packhouse manager to ensure synergy with market program.

13. Plan and coordinate all harvesting activities and ensuring timely harvesting and delivery of produce.

14. Undertake any other duties related to the function as may be assigned from time to time.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

Academic Qualifications:

· At least diploma in Horticulture, agriculture, agronomy, or related discipline / field

· Certificate plus two year of additional practical experience is acceptable.

Work Experience:

· At least 1 years’ practical experience in avocado value chain is required. Technical and practical expertise in avocado production and post-harvest management is key for this position.

· Practical experience in other value chains is added advantage.

· Current network with farmer and farmer groups in related value chains (Avocado) is distinct advantage.

· Computer and report writing skills is required.

Core values and Required skills:

· Good planning skills, organized and able to meet tight deadlines

· Highly reliable, dependable, and trustworthy personality,

· Client oriented, demonstrated communication skills

· Team player and good team management skills

Application

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit a one-page application cover letter and updated curriculum vitae with 3 professional referees to hr@biofarms.co.ke before Monday, 25^th April 2022. Please indicate the title of position applied on the email subject and attach the specified documents in PDF format.

Posted

2 years ago