Production Agronomist – Kenya | Qualibasic Seed Company

Production Agronomist – Kenya | Qualibasic Seed Company

Position: Production Agronomist
Company: Qualibasic Seed Company
Location: Kenya
Type of Job: Full-time
Reporting to: Supply Chain Manager (SCM)
Application Deadline: October 29, 2024

Introduction

Are you passionate about agriculture and looking to make a significant impact in the seed production industry? Qualibasic Seed Company is seeking a highly skilled Production Agronomist to join our team in Kenya. This role is pivotal to ensuring the efficient and high-quality production of seeds that meet the stringent standards of the agricultural industry. If you have a strong background in agronomy, with a keen eye for detail, and are motivated by challenges, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

At Qualibasic Seed Company, we pride ourselves on our commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability. Our team is dedicated to advancing agricultural practices through the development of high-quality seeds that meet the needs of farmers across the region. As a Production Agronomist, you will play a crucial role in ensuring that our seed production processes adhere to the highest standards of quality and regulatory compliance. Join us and be a part of a company that values growth, collaboration, and excellence.

Key Responsibilities

In this dynamic role, you will be responsible for overseeing various aspects of seed production, from grower recruitment to field inspections and quality assurance. Below are the core responsibilities you will manage:

• Recruitment of Seed Growers: Collaborate with the Supply Chain Manager to recruit and onboard suitable seed growers. Ensure that growers meet the necessary qualifications and are equipped with the resources to produce high-quality seeds.
• Land Selection and Preparation: Oversee the selection of appropriate land for seed production, ensuring that it meets isolation requirements and is adequately prepared. You will also ensure that the necessary farm equipment and irrigation systems are in place to support efficient production.
• Field Production Management: Lead the execution of the field production plan, ensuring that seed production is carried out effectively and efficiently to meet the company’s quality standards. Ensure that the required quantities of seed are produced on schedule and meet the Qualibasic Seed (QBS) quality standards.
• Compliance with Regulations: Ensure that all phytosanitary, regulatory, and quality standards are strictly adhered to. This includes certification processes and ensuring that shipments of seed comply with both local and international regulations.
• Agronomic Activities: Implement best practices in land preparation, planting, fertilization, pest, and disease control. Regularly scout fields for pests and diseases and ensure that corrective actions, such as the application of pesticides and herbicides, are implemented effectively.
• Field Inspections: Conduct regular inspections to ensure that the seeds being produced meet the required standards of quality. Monitor the progress of crops and make adjustments to the production process as necessary.
• Roguing and Detassling: Ensure that roguing (the removal of undesirable plants) is carried out in a timely and effective manner to maintain seed purity. You will also oversee the detassling process to ensure the production of high-quality seeds.
• Data Collection: Collect and analyze production research data, including flowering and silking timings, to support the production of single crosses. Use this data to optimize future seed production processes.
• Laboratory Testing: Ensure that harvested foundation seeds are sampled and sent for laboratory analysis. Monitor results to ensure that all seeds meet the required quality parameters.
• Technical Support: Provide ongoing technical support to seed growers to improve production efficiency and ensure compliance with company standards.
• Staff Management: Oversee all field production staff, including full-time employees (FTE) and seasonal workers, to ensure that production activities are carried out in accordance with company policies.
• Health, Safety, and Environmental Quality (HSEQ): Ensure that all health, safety, and environmental regulations are followed in the production field. Promote a safe working environment for all employees.

Qualifications and Skills

To be successful in this role, candidates should meet the following qualifications:

• Educational Background: A degree in agriculture or a related field is required. Candidates with specialized knowledge in seed production will have an added advantage.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with the regulations and certification processes related to seed production is essential for ensuring compliance and maintaining the high quality of seeds produced.
• Seed Production Experience: A minimum of three years of experience in seed production or a similar role is preferred. Experience in conducting field inspections and managing the agronomic aspects of seed production is highly desirable.
• Customer-Focused: A proven track record of building trust and reliability with customers and seed growers. The ability to foster long-lasting relationships with stakeholders is key to success in this role.
• Communication Skills: High proficiency in both written and spoken English. The ability to communicate technical information clearly and effectively is crucial.
• Self-Motivation: Demonstrated ability to work independently, with minimal supervision. Candidates must be performance-driven and results-oriented.
• Willingness to Travel: The role requires a valid driver’s license and the willingness to travel across Kenya to support growers and manage seed production activities.

Company Culture and Values

At Qualibasic Seed Company, we believe in nurturing talent, fostering growth, and building a strong sense of community. We are committed to innovation in agriculture and are passionate about delivering high-quality products that make a positive impact on the farming community. As a member of our team, you will be part of a dynamic and supportive work environment that values:

• Integrity: We believe in doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. Our commitment to ethical business practices is unwavering.
• Excellence: We strive for excellence in everything we do, from seed production to customer service.
• Collaboration: We believe in the power of teamwork. By working together, we can achieve more and make a greater impact in the agricultural sector.
• Sustainability: We are committed to sustainable agricultural practices that benefit both the environment and the communities we serve.
• Innovation: We are constantly seeking new and better ways to produce high-quality seeds that meet the evolving needs of farmers.

If you are looking to work for a company that values innovation, sustainability, and excellence, Qualibasic Seed Company is the place for you.

Apply Now for the Production Agronomist Role

Are you ready to take the next step in your career and contribute to the success of seed production in Kenya? If you have the skills and experience we are looking for, we invite you to apply for the Production Agronomist role today.

How to Apply:
Please send your application, including your CV and a cover letter, to hr@qualibasicseed.com by October 29, 2024. Make sure to clearly indicate the subject line: Production Agronomist (Kenya).

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all backgrounds. We encourage both male and female candidates from all religious, ethnic, and diverse backgrounds to apply.

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