Main purpose of the job:

• To conduct postharvest research on perishable products to improve handling, optimise storage and better maintain product quality.

High level job objectives:

• To plan and design a research trial
• To execute the trial and collect data according to protocol
• To analyse data and complete research reports
• Maintain good relationships with clients and packhouse personnel
• To ensure compliance with relevant PPECB policy and procedures

Job Requirements:

Qualifications

• Diploma in Agriculture with crop science as a major (Essential)
• Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture or related fields (Desirable)

Experience:

• Fruit Handling (1 Year) – Practical experience handling export-quality fruit such as stone fruit, pome fruit, citrus, and table grapes.
• Scientific Research (1 year): Experience in conducting research projects, including planning, data collection, and analysis.
• Fruit Quality Assessment (1 year): Skilled in identifying and evaluating fruit quality disorders.
• Report Writing (1 year): Ability to write clear, structured research or technical reports.
• Client Interaction (1 year): Experience working with clients, including communicating research findings and providing technical       support.

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of the fruit export value chain (Essential)
• Knowledge of ideal storage temperature for different fruit kinds (Essential)
• Knowledge of plant physiology (Desirable)

Technical Skills/ Functional Skills:

• Computer Literacy (Essential)
• Proficient in the use of MS Office suite (Essential)
• Statistical packages (Desirable)

Competency Profile: Behavioural

• Adhering to Principles and Values (Essential)
• Relating and Networking (Essential)
• Delivering Results and Meeting Customer Expectations (Essential)
• Adapting and Responding to Change (Desirable)
• Following Instructions and Procedures (Essential)
• Coping with Pressures and Setbacks (Desirable)
• Working with People (Essential)
• Achieving Personal Work Goals and Objectives (Desirable)
• Adapting and responding to change (Desirable)

Physical, and other

• Good health (ability to sit for long hours and move around hazardous areas) (Essential)