Job Description

• New Product Research: The Officer will assist in new product development.  Before a new product is developed, a research and development department will conduct a thorough study to support the project. The research phase includes determining product specifications, production costs and a production time line. The research is likely to include an evaluation of the need for the product before the design begins to ensure it is a functional product that customers want to use.
• New Product Development:The research Officer will help ensure that new product developed meets the product guidelines and any regulatory specifications.
• Existing Product Updates: Existing products of the company also fall under the scope of research and development. The research officer will evaluates the products offered by the company to ensure they are still functional. When potential changes or upgrades are considered in some cases, the research and development department    resolve problems with an existing product that malfunctions or try to find a new solution to the manufacturing process if it must change.
• Quality Checks:The research Officer will handle the quality checks on products created by the company. The Officer must have an in-depth knowledge of the requirements and specifications of each project. This will allow the officer to ensure the products meet those standards so the company puts out quality products.
• Innovation: The research and development Officer aids the company in staying competitive with others in the industry. He/she will assist to research and analyze the products other businesses are creating, as well as the new trends within the industry. This research will aid the department in developing and updating the products created by the company.
• Policies and Procedures: The officer will help in maintaining and improving upon the standard policies and procedures of the organization and make constructive suggestions on these issues for management consideration.
• Liaison Officer: Assist in interfacing with stake holders particularly regulatory agencies in respect of quality and environment management.

Required Skills or Experience

• Graduate with a Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture with emphasis on agronomy, crop, soil, weed management, ag business, or other ag science course work
• Applicants with backgrounds in agriculture or interns in crop consulting will have added advantage
• Additional experience in lab analysis will be an asset
• A Minimum of 5 Years in a research and Development Department of any production Company, 2 of which should have been in a Supervisory role.

Knowledge and Skills:

•  Planning and organizing skills.
• Ability to maintain confidential of information.
• Good interpersonal skills with customer service orientation.
• Knowledge in the use of Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, internet and other communications software and tools (Telephone, Fax, Scanner, Photocopier, etc.)
• Good data entry
• Ability to meet deadlines and attention to details.
• Desire to serve farmers and others involved in the agriculture industry
• Willingness to work as a team member
• Desire to remain updated with new agricultural trends and technology
• Self-motivation, willingness to learn and good work ethic
• Ability to work outside during heat of day
• Field visit to clients.