Technologist I, Grade 8 - Department of Horticulture and Food Security

The Technologist I, Grade 8, plays a critical role within the Department of Horticulture and Food Security by providing essential technical support for academic and research programs. The primary objective is to ensure the efficient operation, maintenance, and safe utilization of departmental facilities, including laboratories, specialized equipment, and field experimental sites.

Qualifications and Experience

The position requires specialized qualifications and relevant experience. All applicants must possess the following:

• Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture and Food Security or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.
• KCSE/EACE/KCE academic certificate.
• Applicants who possess at least three (3) years of relevant working experience will have a significant advantage.

Core Responsibilities (Typical for the role)

Although specific day-to-day duties are typically assigned by the Head of Department, the Technologist I is generally responsible for:

• Preparing and setting up specialized equipment, chemicals, and materials required for undergraduate and postgraduate practical classes in Horticulture and Food Security.
• Assisting academic staff and students in setting up and executing research experiments, encompassing both laboratory analyses and field/greenhouse investigations.
• Conducting routine maintenance, calibration, and minor repairs of essential laboratory equipment and instruments to ensure reliability.
• Maintaining detailed, accurate records of equipment usage, inventory of supplies, chemicals, and experimental results.
• Ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols, efficient waste disposal procedures, and high-quality assurance standards within all departmental facilities.
• Providing technical guidance and supervision to junior technical staff, and demonstrating complex experimental techniques to students.