JOB PURPOSE/SUMMARY

The Technical Assistant II is responsible for collecting, analysing and reporting on data relevant to crop and livestock production activities under the Biosciences, Agriculture and Food Technologies (BAFT) Unit. The position is also expected to provide technical support across all farm activities with a focus on increasing production, maximising financial returns and controlling costs. This position reports to the Programme Leader or designate.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

General Farm Operations Support:

• Collects and analyses production records and suggests recommendations to improve management and marketing of products; and computes basic financial and economic analyses.
• Researches, recommends and implements best farm operational practices for livestock and crop production.
• Supervises farm staff, as well as persons responsible for routine maintenance of farm equipment and infrastructure.
• Validates farm stock inventory.
• Prepares work requests to be submitted to the work supervisor or farm staff and provides feedback as to the completion of each activity.
• Assists in land preparation activities, crop management, crop records and inventory to increase field crop production.
• Assists in livestock handling, pasture management, inventory and record keeping to increase the production and productivity of livestock operations.
• Assists in the rehabilitation of tree crops such as mango, citrus orchards and the cocoa fields.
• Assists in activities relevant to greenhouse operations and ornamental shade house.
• Conducts field visits and open-day sessions.
• Assists in sales of farm produce and livestock when required.
• Be on call for emergency situations relating to the farm.

Farm-based Academic Activities Support:

• Supervises students engaged in practical farm courses.
• Sets up equipment and other required materials for practical exercises.
• Provides support to students.
• Provides reports and feedback to instructors/professors on students’ performance.
• Prepares workshop/laboratory specimens and assists with instruction/demonstration.
• Performs minor maintenance on instructional equipment.
• Maintains inventory of all equipment and related materials in the area of responsibility.
• Sources chemicals and equipment from various suppliers.
• Demonstrates the use of equipment to students.
• Supports faculty in setting up research projects and oversees data collection associated with these projects using the appropriate software programmes.
• Assists students in setting up research projects.
• Be involved in conducting and executing outreach and research work as part of BAFT outreach and extension efforts.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Advanced Diploma in Agriculture or related discipline. (Bachelor’s degree will be an asset)
• Minimum five (5) years’ relevant experience.
• User proficiency in software programmes, systems, and databases used in universities, including Microsoft® Office programmes and other related technologies.

COMPETENCIES

• Ability to work effectively in teams
• Sound knowledge in specified area of work
• Ability to work with minimal supervision
• Good oral and written communication skills
• Possesses sound work ethics
• Demonstrates high level of discipline and responsibility.