About IRRI The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is dedicated to reducing poverty and hunger through rice science; improving the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers; and protecting the rice-growing environment for future generations. IRRI is an independent, nonprofit, research and educational institute, founded in 1960 by the Ford and Rockefeller foundations with support from the Philippine government. The institute, headquartered in Los Baรฑos, Philippines, has offices in 17 rice-growing countries in Asia and Africa, and over 1,000 staff.
Working with in-country partners, IRRI develops advanced rice varieties that yield more grain and better withstand pests and disease as well as flooding, drought, and other harmful effects of climate change.
Job Purpose
The Breeding Operations Unit (BOU) delivers timely and quality research support at optimal cost in IRRI HQ and regions. The Zeigler Experiment Station (ZES) service unit under the BOU will ensure the delivery of standardized field operations across IRRI HQ to support research and operations, which include equipment rental for land preparation, irrigation systems, crop protection, postharvest services, controlled-environment facilities, field/grounds maintenance, and provision of seasonal labor.
This position will provide overall supervision of operational activities related to crop protection services and warehousing, ensuring optimum service delivery at all times.
This position will be based at the IRRI Headquarters, Los Baรฑos, Philippines, and may only be filled by permanent citizens of the Philippines.
Roles and Responsibilities
- Oversee and execute pest and vertebrate control service operations, including spraying, seed treatment, and placement of rat baits in the field, screen houses and greenhouses before and after planting and as required for field and perimeter maintenance.
- Manage the day-to-day activities for crop protection and warehousing (manpower allocation, scheduling of activities and resource management) ensuring timely, effective, compliant and cost-efficient implementation.
- Ensure the effectiveness of all crop protection activities by being present during the application of restricted pesticides and supervising their proper use
- Track insect pest levels throughout the field while guaranteeing that all pest control treatments involve only FPA-approved pesticides.
- Shall keep a record of the name and address of clients, pesticide formulation and volume used, and the target pests most especially when restricted pesticides were used. All these records shall be made available to FPA every six (6) months.
- Perform corrective actions for reported non-conformance within the agreed time
- Process requests in a timely manner (ZES Request Form, OCS) ensuring recovery of expenses
- Manage inventory of consumables related to crop protection service
- Oversee and perform proper safety operation procedures, housekeeping practices and maintenance of equipment before, during and after work periods to maintain quality, reliability, and safety in all activities
- Advance a safe and healthy work environment through the continuous development of processes and policies that are compliant to the IRRI
- Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) guidelines with effective record keeping on all OHS related matters, including all incidents.
- Work closely with internal stakeholders to ensure efficient execution of crop protection activities
- Coordinate with supervisor for efficient and timely execution of work assignments
- Coordinate with researchers/technicians and HSSE regarding the execution of pest control and inform them in advance regarding the planned activities
- Coordinate with relevant IRRI service units for the requisition, preparation and proper handling of materials/equipment necessary to facilitate crop protection services and warehousing (e.g. PPS for the repair and maintenance of facilities and infrastructure)
- Collaborate with the rest of the Breeding Operations Unit team members to improve processes, communication and research support delivery
- Monitor the accomplishments of service providers
- Performance management of TCPA staff. Oversee the work of technicians and monitor the work of service providers to ensure that the activities are implemented according to the plan, standards and agreed timeline
- Ensure the efficient and effective delivery of services and operations following approved standard operating procedures
- Ensure safe and effective pest control management, including the proper use, handling, storage, and disposal of restricted pesticides; appropriate timing of chemical applications based on pest life cycles; and recommendation of suitable formulations for pest extermination and fumigation.
- Prepare and submit periodic activity reports and record all data on equipment used for work assignments
- Ensure consistent implementation of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during appropriate activities.
- Keep updated on new crop protection methods and chemicals for implementation in ZES services
- Shall regularly attend symposiums or seminars sponsored by FATA to update and upgrade his/her technical knowledge.
- Maintain and manage all permits and/or licenses that are up to date related to crop protection services
- Perform any other relevant duties as assigned by supervisor from time to time
Qualifications
- At least a college-level education or equivalent knowledge gained through training and experience.
- Additional certifications or specialized training are an advantage.
Skills Required
Mandatory
- Has experience managing a team
- Has excellent communication skills
Preferred
Has experience working in a multi-cultural and international setting 4 โwheel driving licenseIRRI offers a highly extensive employee benefits package inclusive of globally-covered medical insurance, retirement plan, life and accident insurance and other allowances.
Join our team and be part of our story!
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
This position will remain open until filled.