Agronomist

Republic of Kenya

Kenya Cereal Enhancement Programme

Recruitment of Programme Coordination Unit Staff

Background: The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock & Fisheries, State Department of Agriculture, is rolling out the Kenya Cereals Enhancement Programme (KCEP) whose objective is to contribute to National Food Security. 

The programme is funded by European Union through IFAD. 

The Ministry wishes to recruit competent and qualified persons to the following position:

Agronomist (AGR) 

2 Posts

Nakuru or Siakago Town 

Ref. AGR13N or AGR13S

The Agronomist will report to the Value Chain Development Specialist (VCS), and will be deployed in either Nakuru or Siakago town, focussing on the Maize and Sorghum/Millet and associated pulses value chain respectively.

Duties and responsibilities:-

(a) Interfacing between Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI) and KCEP in the adaptation of technologies for smallholder application; 

(b) Facilitating the technology dissemination activities undertaken by KARI, the country advisory services and other partners;

(c) Facilitating the capacity building activities of agrodealers by various partners on technical issues.

For appointment to this position, applicants must have:-

(a) Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture with specialization in Agronomy. A relevant post graduate qualification will be an added advantage;

(b) Four (4) years experience as an Agronomist in a research station, public or private firm;

(c) Experience in providing advisory services in a public or private sector setting;

(d) Strong computer application and communications skills (oral, written, presentation); and

(e) Fluent in English and Kiswahili.

Application Process

i. Female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.

ii. Each application should have a CV and covering letter indicating the Reference Number for the position.

Applicants for positions in the Nakuru or Siakago Town sub-units should clearly indicate the preference (N or S) as in the reference numbers.

Photocopies of relevant credentials should be enclosed.

iii. Each application in a sealed envelope should be submitted to:

Principal Secretary

Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries

State Department of Agriculture

P.O. Box 30028-00100

Nairobi

Not later than 10.00 a.m. on 11th April 2014.

iv. Only shortlisted candidates shall be invited for the interview