VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

JOB TITLE: Field Technical Assistant (2 positions)

JOB TYPE: Full time on contract employment

LOCATION: In Coast Region (negotiable in Kilifi and Kwale Counties),

BACKGROUND

Biofarms Limited is a leading horticultural production and exporting company, specializing in fresh fruits, mainly Pineapple, Coconut, avocado, mango, 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 Pineapple and Coconut value chains and primarily focus on farmer mobilization, technical support, and integration in Biofarms Limited supply chain in Coast Region primarily Kilifi and Kwale 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 and technical support in 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 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 pineapple and Coconut 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 pineapple and coconut production.

6. Regularly conduct food safety and quality checks to determine areas of improvement and ensure the systems meet Organic, 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 a 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 the area of 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:

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

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

Work Experience:

• ·        At least 1 years’ practical experience in pineapple and coconut value chains is required. Technical and practical expertise in pineapple and coconut 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 (Pineapple and Coconut) is distinct advantage.
• ·          Computer and report writing skills is required.
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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. The deadline for application is Saturday 16th April 2022. Please indicate the title of position applied on the email subject