Plant Protection Officer (SOG/ST 5)

Job Purpose

Under the supervision of the Senior Plant Protection Officer (SOG/ST 6), the Plant Protection Officer (SOG/ST 5) is responsible for undertaking short, medium and long-term research work in one of the major plant protection disciplines. The incumbent is also responsible for providing consultancy and liaison services on plant protection matters, as well as conducting pest identification and problem diagnosis. 

Key Responsibilities

Management/Administrative: 

• Prepares annual budgetary estimates which contribute to the overall plant protection budget; 
• Oversees inventory of supplies necessary for the effective conduct of research/diagnostic work and ensures proper use and timely replacement of supplies. 

Technical/Professional 

• Plans, organizes, executes and supervises projects in plant protection according to specialist discipline by supervising programmes in field-trial and layout, preparation, application and handling of pesticides, data collection and processing and interpretation and dissemination of results; 
• Plans, organizes and executes laboratory and greenhouse research projects to evaluate the efficacy of pesticides; 
• Plans, organizes the collection identification and preservation of specimens of pest species for diagnostic work and training purposes; 
• Carries out in depth literature review for new technology and improved training methods and for any other reason or purpose that the Chief Plant Protection Officer or Senior Research Director, Plant Protection may request; 
• Develops integrated pest management packages for major pests of economic crops;
• Assists in the preparation of pest risk analysis; 
• Prepares project proposals detailing the scientific method(s) to be involved in the management of specific pest problems; 
• Identifies pest, diagnose pest problems and make recommendations for their management; 
• Produces publishable research papers, fact sheets, posters and either technical material for dissemination; 
• Produces monthly, quarterly, annual and special reports; 
• Transfers technology to extension officers and farmers by way of open days, field days and reporting seminars. Serves as plant protection consultant and guest presenter at various training activities for both extension officers and farmers; 
• Collaborates with other agencies and institutions internally/externally of the Ministry in solving plant protection problems; 
• Visits farms and other holdings in relation to pest problems; 
• Conducts specific plant protection surveys; 
• Dispatches unidentified or unconfirmed specimen to overseas organization for identification; 
• Works closely with consultants and contract workers to facilitate the mutual exchange of technical information; 
• Keeps abreast of local and international developments in plant protection;
• Conducts research activities in the Bio-Control Laboratory of the Plant Protection discipline assigned; 
• Participates in the production and release of biological control agents. 

Human Resource: 

• Monitors and evaluates the performance of direct reports, prepares performance appraisals and recommend and/or initiates corrective action where necessary to improve performance and/or attaining established personal and/or organizational goals; 
• Participates in the recruitment of staff for the Division/Unit and recommends transfer, promotion, termination and leave in accordance with established human resource policies and procedures; 
• In collaboration with the Human Resource Division, develops and implements a succession planning programme for the Division/Unit to facilitate continuity and the availability of required skills and competencies to meet the needs of the Division; 
• Provides leadership and guidance to direct reports through effective planning, delegation, communication, training, mentoring and coaching; 
• Ensures the welfare and developmental needs of staff in the Division/Unit are clearly identified and addressed; 
• Establishes and maintains a system that fosters a culture of teamwork, employee empowerment and commitment to the Division’s and organization’s goals. 

Other 

• Represents the Unit at selected technical conferences and meetings; 
• Performs any other related functions assigned from time to time. 

Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

Core: 

• Strong leadership and management skills; 
• Good interpersonal skills; 
• Good oral and written communication skills; 
• Strong customer and quality focus skills; 
• Good problem solving and decision making skills; 
• Good analytical thinking skills; 
• Good planning and organizing skills. 

Technical: 

• Sound knowledge of associated disciplines of plant protection; 
• Knowledge of the operations of Government/Knowledge of the Ministry’s policies and procedures; 
• Good research and report writing skills; 
• Proficiency in the use of relevant computer applications. 

Minimum Required Qualification and Experience

• B.Sc. Degree in Agriculture with Plant Protection Discipline.

Special Conditions Associated with the Job

• Exposure to hazardous pesticides and harmful laboratory reagents 
• Exposure to ultraviolet radiation 
• Exposure to dust, bacteria and fungal spores 
• Extensive travelling 
• Occasional long working hours

Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.