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Home Jobs Nairobi Microbiology Senior Laboratory Coordinator (Fixed-Term)

Microbiology Senior Laboratory Coordinator (Fixed-Term)

One Acre Fund  · Banking / Financial Services

Full Time Nairobi
Nairobi
Deadline: 19 August 2026
Posted May 24, 2026

We are seeking a highly motivated professional to join our team in a pivotal role. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record of success in a similar position, along with a minimum of five years of relevant experience. Strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills are essential, as the role requires strategic thinking and meticulous attention to detail. Responsibilities include leading cross-functional projects, collaborating with diverse teams, and driving operational excellence to achieve company goals. The position demands adaptability in a fast-paced environment, a commitment to continuous improvement, and the ability to mentor junior staff. A bachelor’s degree in a related field is required, and additional certifications are a plus. This role offers opportunities for professional growth and the chance to make a meaningful impact within the organization.

We seek a Microbiology Coordinator to establish and oversee operations at our newly developed food testing facility. Your primary responsibilities will include safeguarding customer health by verifying food safety and collaborating with local farmers to ensure their products adhere to stringent quality benchmarks. Reporting directly to the Laboratory Specialist, you will provide leadership to a compact team of one to two members, fostering a productive and efficient work environment.

Oversee and execute a wide array of duties encompassing strategic planning, operational oversight, and team leadership. Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to align project objectives with organizational goals. Monitor performance metrics, identify areas for enhancement, and implement corrective actions as necessary. Ensure adherence to company policies, regulatory standards, and best practices in all operational activities. Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement within the team. Provide mentorship and professional development opportunities to enhance team capabilities and engagement. Manage budgets, allocate resources efficiently, and optimize processes to maximize productivity and cost-effectiveness.

Pathogen Detection and Analytical Excellence encompass the identification, analysis, and interpretation of microbial threats with precision and rigor. This role demands expertise in advanced diagnostic techniques, including molecular testing, serological assays, and bioinformatics, to ensure accurate detection and characterization of pathogens. Candidates must possess a strong background in microbiology, biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline, complemented by proficiency in data analysis and laboratory instrumentation. Responsibilities include maintaining high standards of quality control, documenting experimental procedures, and contributing to research initiatives aimed at enhancing detection methodologies.

Utilize advanced microbiological techniques, including PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay), to identify hazardous microorganisms and pathogens such as Salmonella and Listeria.

Evaluate the freshness of food products by detecting the presence of yeast, mold, and other indicators to determine their shelf life.

Ensure testing procedures adhere to technical standards, including ISO/IEC 17025, while consistently delivering accurate results. The ideal candidate will demonstrate deep expertise in microbiological testing methods and practical application.

Ensuring factory hygiene and completing cleaning inspections are essential responsibilities for this role. The position involves conducting regular assessments to verify compliance with sanitation standards and safety protocols. Diligence in identifying potential hazards and maintaining a clean, organized workspace is required. Attention to detail and adherence to established procedures are critical to upholding manufacturing and quality control standards.

Surface swabs are employed to meticulously wipe down factory floors and machinery, ensuring they meet stringent cleanliness and sterility standards.

Air & Water Testing: Verify that the air within packaging rooms and the water utilized for food washing are free from contaminants to ensure compliance with hygiene standards.

The position ensures rigorous adherence to laboratory care and safety protocols while maintaining a secure and efficient work environment. Responsibilities include implementing and enforcing safety guidelines, conducting regular equipment inspections, and documenting compliance with regulatory standards. The role demands meticulous attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to train staff on proper safety procedures. Candidates must possess a background in laboratory operations, familiarity with OSHA regulations, and a commitment to promoting a culture of safety.

Prepare testing materials by mixing and sterilizing the culture media (nutrient-rich substance used in tests), ensuring its proper functionality.

Oversee the upkeep of essential laboratory apparatus, including incubators and autoclaves, to ensure optimal performance and reliability at all times.

Adhere to stringent sterile protocols to prevent contamination, safeguard personnel health, and maintain the integrity of lab samples.

Traceability and chain of custody encompass the systematic tracking and documentation of materials, products, or data throughout their lifecycle. This process ensures accurate monitoring from origin to final destination, verifying integrity and accountability at every stage. Key responsibilities include maintaining precise records, implementing robust control measures, and ensuring compliance with regulatory and industry standards. Strong attention to detail, analytical skills, and proficiency in relevant tracking systems are essential for success in this role.

Maintain a comprehensive inventory of all samples, documenting their receipt through to final disposal, ensuring meticulous traceability throughout the entire lifecycle.

Upon detecting a problem in a test, promptly document the issue and immediately notify the manager.

At this organization, we prioritize fostering professional advancement and skill enhancement through structured programs, mentorship opportunities, and continuous learning initiatives. Employees are encouraged to expand their expertise, take on challenging assignments, and collaborate with industry leaders to accelerate their career progression. We invest in our workforce by providing access to training resources, tuition assistance, and career counseling to support long-term success. Our commitment to development ensures that individuals can thrive in their roles while aligning personal aspirations with organizational goals.

We prioritize continuous learning and actively support employee development. Each week, you will engage in one-on-one meetings with your manager, participate in mentorship and training initiatives, and receive structured performance feedback. Bi-annual career evaluations provide dedicated time to explore your professional aspirations and long-term objectives. Additionally, you will play a key role in shaping our expanding company while cultivating a fulfilling and sustainable career path.

Seeking a highly motivated professional with a minimum of three years of experience in a similar role, preferably holding a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills, both written and verbal, along with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency in industry-standard software and tools is required, along with a commitment to maintaining high standards of accuracy and efficiency. The position demands organizational skills to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines consistently.

Three or more years of hands-on experience in a microbiology laboratory, preferably within the food industry, are required.

A Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology or Food Science is required.

Proficiency in operating PCR and ELISA machines, along with the safe cultivation and analysis of microbial cultures, is required.

You possess a thorough understanding of laboratory safety protocols and proper procedures for cleaning and maintaining lab equipment to ensure a secure and sterile work environment.

You will be responsible for supervising one to two team members while organizing and overseeing daily operational tasks.

You possess the ability to convey complex scientific concepts in clear, accessible language, and you demonstrate proficiency in crafting well-structured, insightful reports.

You excel at adhering to structured plans and maintaining meticulous attention to detail.

The position will conclude on August 16, 2026.

To apply, please submit your application through the designated application method.

Utilize the provided link(s) to submit your application directly through the company’s official website.

Qualifications

BA/BSc/HND

Experience Required

3 years

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