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Home Jobs Nairobi Senior Microbiology & Lab Operations Coordinator (Fixed-Term)

Senior Microbiology & Lab Operations Coordinator (Fixed-Term)

One Acre Fund  · Banking / Financial Services

Full Time Nairobi
Nairobi
Deadline: 19 August 2026
Posted May 25, 2026

About the Role

We seek a Microbiology Coordinator to establish and manage our newly established food testing laboratory. Your responsibilities will include safeguarding customer safety by verifying food quality and ensuring compliance with stringent standards, thereby supporting our farmers in delivering superior products. Reporting to the Laboratory Specialist, you will supervise a small team of one to two members.

Oversee a range of critical functions including the development and implementation of strategic initiatives, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Drive performance excellence by monitoring progress, analyzing key metrics, and providing actionable insights to stakeholders. Collaborate cross-functionally to foster innovation, streamline processes, and enhance operational efficiency. Lead teams by assigning clear responsibilities, offering mentorship, and cultivating a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Pathogen Detection & Analytical Excellence

We are seeking a highly skilled professional to spearhead our pathogen detection and analytical initiatives, ensuring the highest standards of precision and reliability in our diagnostic processes. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in microbiological techniques, molecular diagnostics, and data analysis, with a proven ability to interpret complex datasets and implement innovative solutions. Responsibilities include overseeing laboratory operations, maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in analytical methodologies. Additionally, the role demands strong leadership skills to mentor junior staff, collaborate across departments, and drive advancements in pathogen detection technologies.

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

Assess food freshness by evaluating yeast, mold, and other indicators to determine shelf life accurately.

Ensure compliance of testing methods with established technical standards, including ISO/IEC 17025, while maintaining consistent accuracy in testing results. Demonstrate proficiency and expertise in microbiological testing methodologies and their practical application.

Conduct regular inspections to ensure adherence to hygiene and cleanliness standards within the factory environment. Verify that cleaning protocols are consistently followed, including proper sanitization of equipment, workstations, and common areas. Document findings and report any deficiencies to management for corrective action. Collaborate with cleaning staff to maintain high standards and promptly address any identified issues.

Surface swabs are performed by wiping factory floors and machinery to verify cleanliness and sterility standards.

Conduct thorough assessments of airborne contaminants within packaging environments and evaluate the microbial purity of water utilized in food sanitation processes to ensure adherence to stringent hygiene standards.

Laboratory Care & Safety encompasses the critical practices and protocols essential for maintaining a secure and efficient laboratory environment. This role involves diligently adhering to safety regulations, handling hazardous materials with appropriate precautions, and ensuring all equipment is properly maintained and sanitized. Responsibilities include conducting routine inspections, documenting safety incidents, and providing thorough training to staff on proper laboratory procedures and emergency response. Candidates must possess a strong attention to detail, a commitment to compliance with regulatory standards, and the ability to effectively communicate safety protocols to diverse teams. Proficiency in identifying potential hazards and implementing corrective measures is also required to mitigate risks and uphold operational excellence.

Prepare testing media by meticulously mixing and sterilizing the nutrient-rich substance utilized in assays, ensuring its efficacy and reliability for accurate test outcomes.

Maintain laboratory equipment, including incubators and autoclaves, to ensure optimal functionality and performance.

Maintain a sterile environment by adhering to rigorous cleanliness protocols to prevent contamination and ensure sample integrity within the laboratory setting.

Traceability and chain of custody are fundamental requirements for ensuring the integrity, authenticity, and secure handling of materials, products, or information throughout their lifecycle. This role demands meticulous attention to detail to accurately document and verify the movement, transfer, and ownership of assets at every stage, from origin to destination. Key responsibilities include maintaining comprehensive records, implementing robust tracking systems, and conducting periodic audits to confirm compliance with established protocols. Strong analytical skills are essential to identify discrepancies, resolve inconsistencies, and uphold stringent security and regulatory standards. Candidates must possess exceptional organizational abilities, proficiency in data management tools, and a commitment to maintaining the highest levels of accountability and transparency.

Maintain a comprehensive log of all samples from receipt through disposal to ensure complete traceability and accountability.

Document any observed issues promptly and notify the manager without delay.

We offer substantial opportunities for career advancement and professional development. This role is designed to provide a clear pathway for employees to enhance their skills, expand their expertise, and achieve long-term career objectives. Our organization is committed to fostering an environment where continuous learning and growth are prioritized, ensuring that employees can progress both personally and professionally.

Our organization fosters a dynamic culture of continuous growth and actively invests in the development of our team members. You will engage in weekly one-on-one meetings with your manager, receive mentorship and structured training opportunities, and benefit from consistent performance feedback. Additionally, career reviews are conducted every six months to evaluate progress and align on your professional aspirations and long-term objectives. You will play a key role in shaping our expanding business while cultivating a fulfilling and sustainable career path.

Seeking a highly skilled professional with a minimum of five years of experience in the field. Ideal candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline, such as computer science or engineering, and possess strong problem-solving abilities. Proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, or C++ is essential, along with excellent communication skills. Responsibilities include developing and maintaining software applications, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring project deadlines are met. The role demands a proactive approach, adaptability to new technologies, and a commitment to continuous learning.

Requires a minimum of three years of hands-on experience in a microbiology laboratory, preferably within the food industry.

A bachelor’s degree in either microbiology or food science is required.

You possess expertise in operating PCR and ELISA machines, as well as safely culturing and testing microbial samples.

You possess knowledge of lab safety protocols and appropriate techniques for cleaning laboratory equipment.

A team of one to two staff members can be supervised, with responsibility for organizing daily tasks and activities.

You possess the ability to articulate scientific concepts in clear, accessible language and to produce well-structured reports.

You excel at adhering to structured plans and meticulously managing intricate details with precision and consistency.

The position will conclude on August 16, 2026.

go to method of application

To submit your application, please utilize the provided link(s) on the company’s official website.

Qualifications

BA/BSc/HND

Experience Required

3 years

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