The Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI), a State Corporation under the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries, is inviting applications from self-driven, highly motivated, and results-oriented professionals to fill vacant positions within its approved staff establishment.
KMFRI was established by an Act of Parliament (The Science and Technology Act Cap. 250 of the Laws of Kenya of 1979), now repealed by The Science, Technology and Innovation Act No. 28 of 2013. The Institute is mandated to undertake research in marine and freshwater fisheries, aquaculture, environmental and ecological studies, as well as marine research in chemical and physical oceanography. Its goal is to generate scientific data and knowledge that supports the sustainable development of Kenya’s Blue Economy.
In addition, KMFRI partners with institutions of higher learning and other organizations in research and training. The Institute operates Research Centres and Stations in Mombasa, Kisumu, Naivasha, Baringo, Kegati, Sangoro, Sagana, Turkana, Mutonga, Shimoni, and a research substation at Gazi, alongside a liaison office in Nairobi.
To strengthen its mandate and enhance service delivery, KMFRI seeks to recruit professionals for the following positions:
1. Senior Engineer – KMFRI Grade 5 (1 Post)
Ref: Ext/A/KMF/1
Job Specifications
As a Senior Engineer, you will play a key role in providing technical expertise and leadership in engineering services within the Institute. Your duties will include:
- Preparing institutional infrastructure maintenance plans.
- Designing technical systems and experimental facilities based on research scientists’ requirements.
- Advising scientists on the technical feasibility of proposed infrastructure developments.
- Supervising ongoing infrastructure projects to ensure quality and compliance.
- Mentoring, guiding, and supervising engineers within the department.
Person Specifications
- At least six (6) years of relevant work experience, with three (3) years in an engineering role at a comparable level.
- Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Building and Civil, or Marine Engineering.
- Post-graduate diploma in Mechanical, Electrical, Maritime, or Civil Engineering (or equivalent).
- Registration with the Engineers Registration Board of Kenya.
- Supervisory course lasting at least two (2) weeks from a recognized institution.
- Proficiency in engineering software such as AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, MS Project, Civil 3D, Revit, Prokon, and other structural design and detailing software.
- Must meet the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution.
Key Competencies and Skills
- Strong communication and reporting skills.
- Excellent analytical and numerical skills.
- Effective organizational and interpersonal abilities.
- Negotiation skills and ability to manage stakeholders.
- Capacity to multitask, prioritize, and deliver under pressure.
Remuneration and Benefits
- Basic Salary: KShs. 116,410 – 151,334 per month
- House Allowance: KShs. 45,000 per month
- Commuter Allowance: KShs. 13,000 per month
- Annual Leave Allowance: KShs. 12,500 per year
- Medical Cover & Other Allowances: As provided by KMFRI
2. Senior Security Officer – KMFRI Grade 6 (1 Post)
Ref: Ext/A/KMF/2
Duties and Responsibilities
The Senior Security Officer will be responsible for developing and implementing robust security strategies that safeguard KMFRI’s people, assets, and operations. Key duties include:
- Developing and ensuring the implementation of security strategies, policies, and procedures.
- Liaising with security agencies to protect institutional assets and operations.
- Coordinating emergency response and contingency planning.
- Identifying and assessing potential security threats.
- Investigating internal security breaches.
- Maintaining records of crimes and incidents.
- Overseeing security surveys and inspections of facilities.
- Advising management on security issues that may impact operations.
Requirements for Appointment
- Bachelor’s degree in Criminology or equivalent qualification.
- At least three (3) years of relevant work experience.
- Service background in the Police Force or Military is an added advantage.
- Supervisory training of at least two (2) weeks, or its equivalent, from a recognized institution.
- Demonstrated ability to deliver results in security management.
- Must meet the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution.
Key Competencies and Skills
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Strong organizational and coordination abilities.
- Excellent communication in both English and Kiswahili.
- Effective interpersonal skills for collaboration and leadership.
Remuneration and Benefits
- Basic Salary: KShs. 87,098 – 113,228 per month
- House Allowance: KShs. 35,000 per month
- Commuter Allowance: KShs. 9,000 per month
- Annual Leave Allowance: KShs. 8,500 per year
- Medical Cover & Other Allowances: As provided by KMFRI
- Terms of Service: Permanent and Pensionable
3. Legal Officer – KMFRI Grade 7 (1 Post)
Ref: Ext/A/KMF/3
Job Specifications
This is an entry and training position for law graduates. The officer will work under the guidance and supervision of senior legal officers. Responsibilities include:
- Preparing legal briefs to initiate legal action.
- Drafting and interpreting legal opinions and providing guidance on legal requirements.
- Ensuring KMFRI’s interests are represented in national, regional, and international policy forums.
- Preparing and filing pleadings on behalf of the Institute.
- Drafting and reviewing contracts, agreements, and other legal instruments.
- Offering legal input into policy documents.
- Acting as Secretariat for Senior Management Meetings and supporting preparation of Board papers.
- Preparing and circulating Board and Committee papers.
- Maintaining and updating the Institute’s Register of Conflict of Interest.
Person Specifications
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from a recognized university.
- Post Graduate Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law.
- Admission as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya.
- Valid Practicing Certificate.
- Membership with the Law Society of Kenya in good standing.
- Demonstrated track record of good performance.
- Proficiency in computer applications.
- Must meet the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution.
Key Competencies and Skills
- Strong organizational and coordination skills.
- Excellent legal drafting and report writing abilities.
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Remuneration and Benefits
- Basic Salary: KShs. 69,766 – 90,695 per month
- House Allowance: KShs. 28,000 per month
- Commuter Allowance: KShs. 7,000 per month
- Annual Leave Allowance: KShs. 8,500 per year
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates are required to complete the KMFRI Job Application Form available in the “Vacancies” section of the KMFRI Website. Applicants must attach testimonials, academic and professional certificates, a copy of their National Identification Card, and a detailed CV.
- Applications must be submitted in both hard copy and soft copy.
- Soft copies should be compiled into a single PDF document.
- Envelopes containing hard copy applications must be clearly marked with the position applied for.
Submit applications no later than Monday, 22nd September 2025 to:
The Director General
Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI)
P.O. Box 81651 – 80100
Dr. Ludwig von Krapf Road, English Point
Mombasa, Kenya
Email: [email protected]
Important Notes
- Successful candidates will be required to present the following original documents in compliance with Chapter Six of the Constitution:
- Certificate of Good Conduct (DCI)
- HELB Clearance Certificate
- KRA Tax Compliance Certificate
- EACC Clearance Certificate
- CRB Clearance Certificate
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. They must produce originals of their ID, academic, and professional certificates during interviews.
- Canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification.
KMFRI is an equal opportunity employer. Persons living with disabilities, women, youth, and candidates from marginalized communities are encouraged to apply.
