Field Service Workers -Breeding Operations - CIMMYT
Operations
Kenya
Posted on Aug 25, 2026
About Us
CIFOR & ICRAF in action
Landscape Alliance transforms science into action, unlocking the power of trees, forests and agroforestry landscapes to advance planetary health and human well-being. It is the shared operating name of the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and the International Centre for Research in Agroforestry (ICRAF), two independent International Organizations and CGIAR Research Centers working together through a common strategy, governance and leadership structure.
CIFOR and ICRAF bring together decades of scientific leadership in forests, trees, agroforestry, biodiversity, climate, food systems and livelihoods. CIFOR, headquartered in Bogor, Indonesia, advances research on forests and landscape management to inform policies and practices that improve human well-being, protect the environment and increase equity. ICRAF, headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, harnesses the benefits of trees for people and the environment, generating knowledge that helps governments, development partners and farmers make farming and livelihoods more sustainable.
Overview
The purpose of this role is to support the implementation of dryland crop breeding and seed systems activities through the establishment, management, and maintenance of breeding nurseries, crossing blocks, trials, and demonstration plots. The incumbent will ensure accurate field operations, seed inventory management, and timely, high-quality data collection while maintaining organized workspaces and adherence to safety and operational protocols.
Job Description
1.Breeding Nursery and Trial Operations
- Establishment and Maintenance: Assist in setting up crossing blocks and breeding nurseries for dryland crops, ensuring timely land preparation and layout for seed multiplication, trials, demo plots, and field experiments, sowing and ensuring good germination of materials.
- Pollination Techniques: Produce the required number of seeds and crosses by conducting pollination using various emasculation techniques such as hand, polythene, and chemical methods specific to dryland crops.
- Sample Collection: Collect tissue samples (leaf punch and/or seed chip) following established protocols.
- Assist in laying out the DCP and VACS demo field for planting and experiments.
- Assist in implementing safe and effective agronomic practices such as thinning, weeding, irrigation, scouting for pest and diseases and harvesting.
- Assisting in conducting weekly field scouting and keeping records of pest and diseases spotted.
- Assisting in the implementation of occupational health and safety protocols performs any other relevant duties that may be assigned by the research associates from time to time..
2. Seed Inventory and Preparation
- Inventory Management: Maintain organized seed packets/seed storage containers in the cold room and seed preparation areas, always keeping work areas clean and orderly.
- Assisting in the maintenance of the DCP and VACS demo and keeping the cold room clean and neat.
3. Data Collection
- Assist in field data collection from crossing blocks, breeding nurseries, and trials using digital devices, adhering strictly to data collection procedures.
- Integrity: Uphold the highest standards of integrity and honesty in all data collection activities.
4. Supervisory and Safety Responsibilities
- Team Supervision: Assist in supervising casual workers, maintaining detailed records, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols.
- Communicate DCP demo and cold room issues and concerns promptly to the Research Associates.
Requirements
- Highest levels of integrity, honesty, diligence, efficiency, flexibility, self-motivation and respect for diversity.
- KCSE (O) Level of education. Any other relevant training is an added advantage.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English and Kiswahili
- At least one (1) year experience in cross breeding techniques for legumes.
- Experience in cultural management of crop breeding nurseries and breeding trials.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, willingness to be trained in new skills relevant to the tasks.
- Ability to work effectively both independently on assigned tasks and as part of a team on group deliverables.
Education, Experience and Technical skills
•Highest levels of integrity, honesty, diligence, efficiency, flexibility, self-motivation and respect for diversity. •KCSE (O) Level of education. Any other relevant training is an added advantage. •Proficiency in spoken and written English and Kiswahili •At least one (1) year experience in cross breeding techniques for legumes. •Experience in cultural management of crop breeding nurseries and breeding trials. •Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, willingness to be trained in new skills relevant to the tasks. •Ability to work effectively both independently on assigned tasks and as part of a team on group deliverables.
Personal Attributes and Competencies
•Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately and complete assigned tasks on time. •Good organizational skills and attention to detail in routine activities. •Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. •Good communication skills with basic proficiency in spoken and written English •Ability to work under field, laboratory, or greenhouse conditions with minimal supervision. •Personal qualities including honesty, reliability, commitment, flexibility, teamwork, and respect for diversity.
Terms and conditions
•This is a Locally Recruited Staff (LRS) position. CIFOR-ICRAF offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience and qualifications. •The appointment will be for a period of one (1) year, inclusive of a three-month probationary period, with the possibility of extension contingent upon performance, continued relevance of the position and available resources. •The duty station will be in Kiboko, Kenya. •We will acknowledge all applications but will only contact short-listed candidates.
