Last Updated on May 31, 2023
Applications are invited from suitably qualified and eligible candidates for the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) Recruitment 2023.
Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) is a government regulatory agency responsible for Assurance on the quality of Agriculture inputs and produce. It was formed under Plant Protection Act, (Cap 324) and its mission is to provide a science based regulatory service by assuring plant health, quality of agricultural inputs and produce for food security, globally competitive agriculture and sustainable development.
Table of Contents
KEPHIS Recruitment 2023
We are recruiting to fill the positions below;
- Principal Laboratory Analyst – 3 Positions
- Principal Seed /Plant Health Inspector – 7 Positions
- Senior Assistant Corporate Communications Officer
- Senior Assistant Internal Audit and Risk Officer
- Senior Customer Care Assistant – 2 Positions
- Senior Laboratory Technologist
- Senior Caretaker
- Senior Driver
Principal Laboratory Analyst – 3 Positions
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conduct chemical and biological testing on agricultural produce and agro- inputs for compliance to market requirements and standards for realization of the institutional mandate;
- Review and validate processed test results for accuracy and integrity before approval for dispatch to clients;
- Conduct technical laboratory assessments, system audits, review audit findings, develop and implement corrective/improvement action plans in the section;
- Conduct national surveillance sampling programs for monitoring of pesticide residues, microbiological, mycotoxins, agro-inputs quality and heavy metal contaminants in agricultural produce for compliance to food safety and market requirements;
- Undertake accurate detection and identification of regulated and non-regulated quarantine pests;
- Undertake Tissue culture cleanup and micro-propagation of plants and germplasm maintenance;
- Undertake Genetically Modified Organisms testing for detection, identification and quantification of events in support of the Biosafety act of 2009 and its regulations;
- Participate in developing of new pest diagnosis protocols;
- Participate in identification of risks related to laboratory activities to minimize, leverage and identify potential challenges before they occur;
- Participate in developing client reports for purposes of decision making;
- Support Pest Risk Analysis activities to advice on pest status and update pest listing the country;
- Support laboratory research activities towards strengthening Phytosanitary and seed regulation;
- Supervise implementation of ISO/IEC 17025 standard guidelines;
- Generate technical specifications for equipment, apparatus and other implements and perform technical evaluation for media, reagents, chemicals and equipment that ensure acceptable levels of analytical performance;
- Review workflow in the section/unit to ensure compliance with set performance timelines;
- Review test requests submitted by clients for decision making on laboratory capability to test the submitted samples;
- Audit food systems of export food business operators for compliance;
- Supervise tests on proficiency testing, inter-laboratory and intra-laboratory samples comparisons organized in the section/units as a quality assurance and control measure to ensure validity of results;
- Compile data on the performance of the laboratory through weekly monthly, quarterly and annual reports to monitor compliance to Customer service charter;
- Prepare, reviews and implements laboratory protocols and Standard Operating Procedures for suitability and relevance in line with international standard requirements;
- Prepare and submit performance reports outlining the extent of adherence to set targets and plans;
- Participation in the Service project activities and awareness creation and training stakeholders;
- Represent the Service in relevant stakeholder forums;
- Induct new staff in all areas of laboratory analysis;
- Offer agronomic and new technological advice on soil, water, plant health matters as well as providing crop specific advice based on analytical data in relation to crop nutritional needs; and Support research and development programs of the Service.
Person Specification
For appointment to this grade a candidate must have:
- Bachelor of Science Degree in any of the following; Agriculture, Analytical Chemistry, Horticulture, seed technology, botany, microbiology, molecular biology Chemistry, Biochemistry, applied microbiology, applied Biology, Applied Biological Science, Applied Biological Technology and plant nutritionist from a university recognized in Kenya;
- Masters in any of the following; seed technology, Plant Nutrition, Soil science, Horticulture, Plant Pathology, Crop protection, Agronomy, botany, microbiology, molecular biology, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Environmental Chemistry, Applied Biological Science, Applied Biological Technology and Food Safety or its equivalent from a University recognized in Kenya;
- Served for at least eight (8) years related work experience three (3) of which must be in a supervisory position; and
- Meets the provisions of the Chapter Six (6) of the Constitution of Kenya
Skills
- Computer applications proficiency.
- Statistical packages will be an added advantage;
- Excellent problem solving skills;
- Communication skills,
- Data analysis skills,
- Report writing and presentation skills.
Competencies
- Ability to work independently and in a team;
- Ability to make decisions independently;
- Work well under pressure and prioritize work;
- Knowledge in international standard on good laboratory practice; and
- Experience with a Laboratory Quality Management System.
Principal Seed /Plant Health Inspector – 7 Positions
Duties and responsibilities:
- Coordinating and conducting pest risk analysis of plants, plant products, other regulated articles and biological articles and control agents, pest listing, reviewing and updating plant import requirements and issuance of plant import permits;
- Approval of applications by new clients and coordinating audits/inspection of facilities before registration;
- Coordinating and undertaking farm/facility audits/inspection of plants, plant products and other regulated articles destined for export;
- Coordinating and conducting inspection of imported seed, plants, plant products and other regulated articles or those intended for export at official entry points and issuance of phytosanitary certificates;
- Coordinating seed certification activities including field inspection, sampling, post certification surveys and post control;
- Development, review and implementation of guidelines and training curriculum for private persons undertaking authorized activities on behalf of the Service;
- Coordinating National Performance Trials and Distinct Uniformity and Stability trials.
- Processing and examining applications for Plant Variety Protection;
- Coordination of plant quarantine control and conducting pest surveillance, monitoring, emergency response and reporting of new pests;
- Coordinating seedling nursery certification inspections to ensure timely audit of seedling nurseries and availability of clean seedlings;
- Undertake national, regional and international trade relations;
- Coordinating the resolution of appeals by aggrieved clients;
- Conducting inspection of bio-containment facilities, GMO approved activities and facilities for compliance with phytosanitary requirements and conducting market surveillance for GMO;
- Participating in activities for maintaining border security together with other government agencies by implementing various border surveillance strategies;
- Coordination development and implementation of training programs and curriculum on seed, phytosanitary, NPT and DUS matters for capacity building of KEPHIS technical staff and stakeholders to enhance staff competence and efficiency in service delivery;
- Coordinating phytosanitary audits conducted by importing countries to ensure market access, Monitoring of databases for information security and accuracy and participate in review and updating of electronic systems;
- Proposing areas of review of laws and regulations and participate in development of regulations and policies on plant health matters, seed certification and PVP to ensure proper regulatory framework;
- Initiating development and coordinating implementation of policies, guidelines and strategies, protocols, manuals, to align with national and international requirements, new technologies and emerging issues on seed, phytosanitary matters and plant variety protection;
- Participate in Standards setting activities at national and international levels;
- Support management of WTO-SPS enquiry points for plant health to track notifications which have bearing on Kenya trade;
- Monitoring to ensure phytosanitary, seed certification & PVP non- compliances are evaluated and resolved for efficiency in service delivery; Coordinate participation in stakeholder activities at national and county level to sensitize them on seed and phytosanitary certification and plant variety protection issues;
- Support and undertake research activities towards strengthening seed, phytosanitary and plant variety protection regulation and bridging gaps in missing data;
- Coordination of implementation and maintenance of Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001:2015, ISO/IEC 27001:2013) for delivery of quality services and trade facilitation.
Person specification
For appointment to this grade a candidate must have:
- Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Biotechnology, Entomology, Crop Protection, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Seed Technology, Seed Science, Horticulture, Agronomy, Botany or its equivalent from a University recognized in Kenya.
- Master of Science in Plant Pathology, Seed Science, Biotechnology, Entomology, Crop Protection, Molecular Biology, Plant Breeding,
- Horticulture, Agronomy, Botany, Zoology or its equivalent from a University recognized in Kenya.
- Professional qualification and membership where applicable;
- Served for at least eight (8) years related work experience three (3) of which must be in a supervisory position;
- Attended a Senior Management course lasting not less than four (4) weeks;
- Meets the provisions of the Chapter Six (6) of the Constitution of Kenya.
Skills
- Proficiency in computer applications. Literacy in statistical packages will be an added advantage;
- Excellent problem solving skills;
- Communication skills;
- Leadership skills;
- Problem solving skills;
- Negotiation Skills;
- Analytical skills;
- Interpersonal skills;
- Creativity;
- Data analysis skills;
- Report writing and presentation skills;
- Team player.
Competencies
- Ability to work independently;
- Ability to make decisions independently;
- Work well under pressure and prioritize work;
- Demonstrated results in work performance;
- Demonstrated knowledge in international standards and Quality Management Systems;
- Demonstrated outstanding professional competence.
Senior Assistant Corporate Communications Officer
Job Specification
- Handling customer complaints;
- Updating and managing the Service’s website and social media accounts;
- Keeping a data book of complaints and ensuring prompt responses in line with the Communication policy;
- Maintaining of customer and stakeholders’ database;
- Maintain photo/media database to ease retrieval;
- Coordinate taking photos during events and special visits;
- Ensure protocol and courtesy is observed;
- Monitoring responses from other departments.
Person Specification
For appointment to this grade a candidate must have:
- Four (4) years relevant work experience;
- Diploma in Journalism, Mass Communication, Public Relations or its equivalentfrom a recognized institution;
- Excellent Communication skills;
- Interpersonal skills;
- Report writing skills;
- Proficiency in Computer Applications;
- Compliance with Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya.
Skills
- Proficiency in computer applications;
- Communication skills;
- Interpersonal skills;
- Report writing skills;
- Negotiation skills; and
- Problem solving skills.
Competencies
- Ability to work under pressure;
- Ability to work independently and in a team;
- Ability to multi-task and prioritize work;
- Demonstrated ability to implement Quality Management Systems.
Senior Assistant Internal Audit and Risk Officer
Job description
- Preparing audit test procedures, notifications and request for information memas;
- Conducting preliminary reviews of the areas to be audited;
- Carrying out audit tests on internal controls in all processes;
- Ensuring that the audit working and paper files are complete and well referenced;
- Preparing draft audit reports;
- Drafting risk-based audit plans, programmes and schedules.
Person specification
- At least two years relevant work experience from private or public institution;
- Demonstrated results in work performance;
- CPA II/ACCA II:
- Computer proficiency;
- Four years relevant experience as Accounts Assistant from private or public institution;
- Accounting Technician Diploma (ATD) or Certified Public accountant (CPA) Part 1;
- Meets requirements of the Chapter six of the Constitution.
Skills
- Communication skills
- Keen to details
- Analytical skills
Competencies
- Can work well under pressure and prioritize work; and Ability to work in a team
Senior Customer Care Assistant – 2 Positions
Job Specification
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Receiving, Directing and relaying telephone messages;
- Directing visitors and customers to the appropriate staff member when they come to KEPHIS for services;
- Receiving and record mails/parcels then distributes them to the relevant office;
- Maintaining visitor’s book for analysis by respective departments;
- Ensuring information materials are available at the reception and availing the same to clients;
- Opening and date stamping all general correspondences;
- Assisting in the planning and preparation of meetings, conferences and conference telephone calls;
- Responding to public enquiries;
- Answering all incoming calls and handle call enquiries whenever possible;
- Redirecting calls as appropriate and take adequate messages when required;
- Recording and type all incoming visitors names for analysis per department;
- Ensuring information materials are available at the reception and request clients to get a copy;
- Opening the biometric door for clients.
Person Specification
For appointment to this grade a candidate must have:
- At least four (4) years relevant work experience;
- Diploma in Telecommunications Operations, Front Office Management, Customer Care or its equivalent from an institution recognized in Kenya preferably KNEC;
- Proficiency in Computer Applications;
- Good Public Relations Skills;
- Diploma in Telecommunications Operations, Front Office Management, Customer Care or its equivalent from a recognized institution;
- Compliance with Chapter Six of the Constitution,
Skills
- Proficiency in computer applications;
- Communication skills;
- Interpersonal skills;
- Report writing skills;
- Negotiation skills;
- Problem solving skills.
Competencies
- Ability to work under pressure;
- Ability to work independently and in a team;
- Ability to multi-task and prioritize work; and
- Demonstrated ability to implement Quality Management Systems.
Senior Laboratory Technologist
Job Specification
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Sampling of agro-inputs, agricultural produce and products and environmental samples for quality and safety analysis;
- Sampling of agricultural produce and plant material for pest infestation and disease infection analysis;
- Analysis of agro-input, organic and inorganic trace contaminant in agricultural, microbiological and environmental samples or seed analysis or plant health and molecular biology analysis;
- Molecular analysis of plant materials, genetically modified organisms (GMO);
- Preparation of reports and data analysis;
- Preparation of laboratory standards and reagents;
- Sample handling and preparation of media;
- Supervise cleaning and sterilization of laboratory glassware;
- Analytical work and maintenance of reference collection of insects, bacteria, fungi, nematodes, viruses, among others;
- Implement and maintain Quality management system for good laboratory practice;
- Disease and pest diagnosis in plant materials and other regulated articles;
- Maintenance and updating records in area of operation including use of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS);
- Seed health, purity, moisture, germination and viability testing.
Person Specification
For appointment to this grade a candidate must have:
- Higher National Diploma or Diploma in any of the following; Seed Technology, Laboratory Technology, Botany, Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Applied Microbiology, Applied Biology, And Plant Nutritionist or any other relevant diploma;
- Have at least 2 years’ work experience for Higher National Diploma;
- Have at least 4 years’ work experience for Diploma and;
- Meets the provisions of the Chapter Six (6) of the Constitution of Kenya.
Skills
- Computer applications proficiency;
- Team player;
- Creativity;
- Good communication skills;
- Report writing and presentation skills.
Competencies
- Ability to work under pressure;
- Ability to work independently and in a team;
- Demonstrated results in work performance;
- Knowledge of laboratory analysis using modern technologies;
- Ability to identify plants, seeds, pests, diseases and weeds;
- Knowledge of equipment maintenance and calibration;
- Ability to work with minimum supervision;
- Experience with a laboratory Quality Management system
Senior Caretaker
Job specification
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Monitor security inside and outside the building, movement of visitors carrying out temporal works around in the institution and coordination of all security and related activity;
- Monitor the security of the buildings and all assets therein;
- Monitor occurrences including flooding, building defects;
- Monitor the performance of fire extinguishers and other safety installations including emergency showers;
- Keep inventory of all keys in the buildings within the institution;
- Ensure that all areas are locked as necessary;
- Coordinate any work repairs in liaison with the works Inspectors.
- Ensure supply of water and electricity;
- Ensure repair and maintenance of the water tank and generator;
- Manage access to all stores;
- Ensure rooms /offices doors are opened and closed at the right time;
- Monitor water pump and generator daily;
- Serve as custodian of all spare keys;
- Manage car park,
Person specification
For appointment to this grade a candidate must have:
- Four years’ experience as caretaker;
- KCSE certificate Grade C- (minus) or its KNEC accepted equivalent:
- Basic knowledge in minor repairs and maintenance of buildings;
- Basic knowledge on security management;
- First aid certificate from a recognized institution;
- Computer applications skills;
- Interpersonal and communication skills and
- Compliance with Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya,
Skills
- Proficiency in computer applications;
- Communication skills;
- Interpersonal skills;
- Report writing skills;
- Negotiation skills; and
- Problem solving skills.
Competencies
- Ability to work under pressure;
- Ability to work independently and in a team;
- Ability to multi-task and prioritize work; and
- Demonstrated ability to implement Quality Management Systems.
Senior Driver
Job specification
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Transport authorized persons for official duties;
- Drive the assigned vehicle ensuring the safety of passengers, vehicle and other road users for the transport of authorized persons;
- Responsible for the day to day maintenance of the assigned vehicle —check oil level, water, coolant, battery and tyres;
- Responsible for the cleanliness of the vehicle including arraigning it for repair using the prevailing procedure;
- Log official trips as per government procedure and policies including mileage, consumption and route;
- Ensure vehicle documents are current including display of insurance cover at all times observe traffic rules and regulations;
- Maintain confidentiality of passenger conversations /discussions:
- Report accidents or incidents immediately to the supervisor and ensure that steps required by rules and regulations are taken in case of involvement in accident.
Person specification
For appointment to this grade a candidate must have:
- KCSE certificate D or its KNEC accepted equivalent;
- Clean driving license free from any endorsement;
- Adequate knowledge of the Highway Code;
- overnment Trade test III;
- Have knowledge of driving rules and conversant with road security code;
- Have a valid certificate of good conduct from Kenya Police renewable every two years;
- Passed suitability Drivers Grade test II;
- Basic knowledge in minor vehicle repairs and maintenance;
- Defensive driver’s license from the Automobile Association of Kenya or a recognized institution;
- First aid certificate from a recognized institution.
- Minimum four years’ driving experience (Class B, C and E);
- Compliance with Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya.
Skills
- Proficiency in computer applications;
- Communication skills;
- Interpersonal skills;
- Report writing skills;
- Negotiation skills; and
- Problem solving skills.
Competencies
- Ability to work under pressure;
- Ability to work independently and in a team;
- Ability to multi-task and prioritize work; and
- Demonstrated ability to implement Quality Management Systems.
Method of Application
Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates to fill the following positions in the Corporation. Eligible applicants are requested to submit their application letter together with detailed curriculum vitae, certified copies of academic and professional certificates plus transcripts, relevant testimonials and National Identity card in a sealed envelope and addressed to:
The Managing Director
Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service
Oloolua Ridge
P.O. BOX 49592 -00100
NAIROBI.
OR
Hand delivered to the Office of the Managing Director by 12 June, 2023.
Further, a summary of your biodata in the following format (Excel only) should be submitted to applications@kephis.org by 12 June, 2023.
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