The World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), on behalf of CIMMYT, is seeking qualified Field Assistants to be based at the Kiboko research station. The Field Assistants will support research technicians in agricultural trial management, seed processing, data collection using digital devices, hand pollination, harvesting, and supervising casual field staff.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Seed Processing, Packaging and Storage
Support field technicians at Kiboko with timely seed processing (e.g., shelling, drying, weighing, and packaging of seed for storage).
Support timely seed preparation for nurseries and trials.
Planting and Management of Trials and Nurseries
Support in planting nurseries as well as optimal, biotic, and abiotic stress trials (managed low N, managed drought, artificial FAW infestation).
Carry out proper agronomic practices such as timely weeding, fertilizer application, and pest control on nurseries and trials at Kiboko station.
Ensure application of control measures for Fall Armyworm (FAW) in consultation with the research technician.
Ensure appropriate irrigation for trials and nurseries planted at Kiboko station as required.
Ensure roguing of off-types in nurseries is carried out as required.
Data Collection, Pollination and Harvesting
Support timely data collection for trials and nurseries using hand-held electronic devices.
Perform pollination of crossing and selfing nurseries per technician instructions.
Support harvesting of trials and nurseries and collection of harvest-time data.
Supervision of Casual Labor
Lead teams of casual laborers in field operations (seed processing, packing, storage, pollination, harvesting) for increased efficiency and accountability.
Requirements and Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or Diploma in Agriculture.
Proficiency in spoken and written English and Kiswahili.
At least three (3) years of practical experience in an agricultural research setting.
Demonstrated expertise in planting trials and nurseries, electronic data collection, pollination in crossing and seed increase nurseries, management of trials and nurseries, and seed preparation.
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