Research Auxiliary (Greenhouse and field support)

About the role 

• The Research Auxiliary will provide day-to-day operational support to CIP’s hybrid breeding activities at the PQS-Muguga station. The role involves hands-on support with routine greenhouse and field tasks under the direction of technical staff, contributing to CIP’s potato hybrid breeding program. 

Key responsibilities 

Greenhouse Operations 

• Carry out routine day-to-day greenhouse tasks as directed by the supervisor.
• Support plant maintenance routines, including watering, fertilization, and pest monitoring.
• Provide manual assistance with crossing activities under the guidance of technical staff.
• Conduct seed extraction and berry harvest as directed by the supervising scientist.

Field Support 

• Assist with planting, weeding, watering, and general maintenance of field plots.
• Support harvesting and collection of plant samples as directed by technical staff.
• Assist with cleaning, sorting, and labeling of harvested material under supervision.
• Help keep work areas, tools, and equipment clean and in good order.

What are we looking for? 

Education 

• Complete high school education.   
• Additional training in basic field or greenhouse practices is an advantage 

Experience 

• At least one (1) year of experience in a similar field or greenhouse support role is preferred 

Skills & Competencies 

• Precise and methodical approach to work, with strong attention to detail.
• Responsible, proactive, and able to identify and resolve problems in the field or greenhouse.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work collaboratively within a team.
• Fluent in the official language(s) of the duty location (Swahili and English).
• Core competencies: innovation, accountability, teamwork, and integrity.