Plant Protection Officer (Old Harbour, Jamaica) -Min. Of Agriculture & Fisheries

 The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries is inviting suitably qualified persons to fill the posts of  Plant Protection Officer (SOG/ST 5) –Vacant in the Research and Development Division, Bodles, Old Harbour.

Salary scale: $1,271,811.00 - $1,511,784.00 per annum

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 conduct pest identification and problem diagnosis.

KEY OUTPUTS

• Project proposals produced
• Field, laboratory and greenhouse projects developed and implemented
• IMP packages produced
• Reports prepared
• Monthly, quarterly, annual and special reports prepared
• Work plan produced
• Extension officers and farmers trained
• Pest collection updated and maintained
•  Laboratory supplies and equipment procured, maintained and managed
• Staff needs identified and addressed

KEY RESPONSIBILITY AREAS

Management/Administrative Responsibilities

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

Technical/Professional Responsibilities

• 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 Resources Responsibilities

• 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 responsibilities

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

PERFORMANCE STANDARD

• Research projects designed and executed within established guidelines and time frames
• Scientific papers, fact sheet and technically informed articles produced detailing research findings
• Monthly, quarterly, annual and special reports produced within agreed time frames and required standards
• Pest list and reference collection updated by new and verified
• Professional advice, guidance and training provided for extension and plant quarantine officers and farms
• Risk assessments conducted in accordance with international standards and organizational policy
• Responsibilities of support staff clearly identified and delegated
• Comprehensive integrate pest management packaged and produced for specified pests on agricultural crops
• Work programme prepared within established format and time frame and supports the operational plans for the Department
• Estimates for recurrent and capital budget prepared and submitted within established time frames
• Support staff evaluation completed on a timely basis and appropriate actions recommended
• Staff needs are clearly identified and addressed in a timely manner
• Staff performance meets or exceeds set targets 

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

Core

1. Strong leadership and management skills
2. Good interpersonal skill Good oral communication skills
3. Good written communication skills
4. Strong customer and quality focus skills
5. Good problem solving and decision making skills

Technical

• Sound knowledge of associated disciplines of plant protection
• Knowledge of the operations of Government / Knowledge of the Ministry’s policies and procedures
• Proficiency in the use of relevant computer applications

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

Position Requirements: 

• B.Sc. in Agriculture with Plant Protection Discipline

Applications accompanied by resumes should be submitted no later than March 10, 2021 to:

Senior Director

Human Resource Management and Development Division

Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries

Hope Gardens,

Kingston 6

hrm@moa.gov.jm

Please note that we thank all for responding but only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.