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Ikokazikenya

Deputy Director of Analytical..

Ikokazikenya, Mission, Kansas, United States,


Deputy Director of Analytical Chemistry Laboratory and Food Safety

The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) is the government parastatal responsible for assuring the quality of agricultural inputs and produce to prevent adverse impacts on the economy, the environment, and human health.Vision:

Healthy plants, safe trade, and a sustainable aggro-environment for a prosperous Kenya.Mission:

To provide a science-based regulatory service by assuring plant health and the quality of agricultural inputs and produce for food security, globally competitive agriculture, and sustainable development.Core Values:Customer focusProfessionalism and IntegrityTeamworkResults-orientedInnovation and CreativityCorporate social sustainabilityStrategic Objectives:To protect plants from pests, weeds, and invasive species.To facilitate the review and strengthening of the policy, legal, and regulatory framework.To contribute towards improved levels of agricultural productivity.To support compliance with market requirements.To build adequate technical and infrastructural capacity.To mobilize adequate financial resources.To enhance synergies through information and resource sharing with stakeholders.To enhance the visibility and corporate image of KEPHIS.KPH/DDACL&FS/1/24Job SpecificationDuties and Responsibilities:Provide leadership to staff and coordinate all activities of the Analytical Chemistry Laboratory and Food Safety services.Develop and implement Testing services strategies in the department.Manage and coordinate operations of departmental laboratories.Coordinate test method development, validation, and alignment to international standards.Manage criteria development for interpretation of test reports.Ensure confidentiality and impartiality in laboratory operations.Develop and implement a Risk Management Framework.Coordinate audits of food systems for compliance.Manage human capital and administrative activities within the department.Evaluate departmental laboratory staff performance.Coordinate procurement processes for laboratory supplies.Manage quality assurance activities.Oversee management of departmental laboratory testing equipment.Identify technical skills gaps and training programs.Provide leadership in customer services management.Coordinate calibration programs for laboratory testing equipment.Establish and maintain laboratory quality management systems.Prepare and monitor department operations budget.Provide technical expertise in developing new test methods.Coordinate participation in technical committee meetings.Provide technical advice on testing matters.Review assessment findings for system improvement.Develop and recommend pricing and costing of services.Monitor departmental laboratory staff work performance.Represent departmental issues in administrative meetings.Train, coach, and mentor departmental laboratory staff.Implement supervised pesticide residue field trials.Execute national surveillance programs for food safety compliance.Support regulatory research programs in the Service.Liaise with management and other Deputy Directors on laboratory matters.Person SpecificationFor appointment to this grade, a candidate must have:Bachelor of Science Degree in Analytical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or Biochemistry.Masters in Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Chemistry, or equivalent.Ten (10) years’ experience in Pesticide residues analysis and quality management systems, with five (5) years in a supervisory role.Attended a Management course lasting not less than four (4) weeks.Meets the provisions of Chapter Six (6) of the Constitution of Kenya.SkillsProficiency in computer applications; statistical packages are an advantage.Creativity and excellent problem-solving skills.Data analysis and report writing skills.Ability to work independently and as a team player.Ability to make decisions independently and work under pressure.Knowledge in laboratory instrumentation and/or electronics is an advantage.Knowledge in international standards on good laboratory practice.Experience with a Laboratory Quality Management System.Method of Application

Applicants should visit the online portal located in the Careers section of the KEPHIS website (www.kephis.go.ke) to submit applications electronically. Clearly indicate the position and the vacancy number on the subject line, with a detailed curriculum vitae, certified copies of academic and professional certificates, transcripts, national identification cards, and any other supporting documents (as pdf attachments) not later than

13th February, 2024 at 5.00 p.m.KEPHIS is an equal opportunity employer. Potential candidates from marginalized communities and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.Shortlisted candidates will be required to avail their original and certified copies of the relevant certificates & transcripts and original national identity card during the interview.Successful candidates must obtain and submit valid clearance certificates as per Chapter Six of the Constitution.

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