Job Advertisement: Assistant Livestock Health Technician at Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Introduction
Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a world-renowned wildlife conservation area located in Nanyuki, Kenya, is home to critically endangered species, including the eastern black rhino and the last two northern white rhinos. Additionally, it houses a sanctuary for chimpanzees rescued from the black market and supports the region’s biodiversity by maintaining one of Kenya’s highest predator densities. Ol Pejeta is committed to wildlife conservation and community development, ensuring that local populations benefit from education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvements. We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled individual to join our team as an Assistant Livestock Health Technician.
Position: Assistant Livestock Health Technician
Location: Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Nanyuki, Kenya
Department: Livestock Department
Reports to: Senior Livestock Health Technician
Position Type: Non-Unionisable
Closing Date: Friday, 24th January 2025
Role Summary
The Assistant Livestock Health Technician will play an integral role in maintaining the health and welfare of the livestock within Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The role involves overseeing spray race operations, including acaricide mixing and supervision, monitoring livestock health, performing treatments, and assisting with breeding programs. The technician will also be responsible for post-mortem examinations and ensuring the proper documentation of all livestock-related activities.
Key Responsibilities
- Livestock Health Management:
- Diagnose and treat sick or clinical cases in the absence of the Senior Animal Health Technician.
- Ensure the timely and accurate administration of treatments, vaccines, and immunizations.
- Monitor the overall health of the herd and report any significant health issues.
- Spray Race Operations:
- Supervise and manage daily spray race operations, including acaricide mixing and ensuring correct usage.
- Maintain spray race protocols and supervise spray race attendants to ensure operational efficiency.
- Record and compile daily operations and activities related to livestock health.
- Breeding and Reproductive Programs:
- Assist the Senior Livestock Health Technician in the management of general breeding programs, artificial insemination, and bull tapping.
- Vaccination and Immunization:
- Ensure all scheduled vaccinations and immunization programs are completed on time.
- Maintain accurate records of immunization schedules and outcomes.
- Post Mortem and Disease Reporting:
- Conduct post-mortems on livestock that die, whether due to disease or other causes, and document findings.
- Report any notifiable diseases to the Head of Livestock & DM and relevant authorities, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
- Record Keeping and Documentation:
- Maintain thorough and up-to-date records of treatments, vaccinations, and any incidents, including livestock deaths.
- Ensure that all drug kits, equipment, and tools are kept clean and in good working order.
- Safety and Compliance:
- Adhere to safety protocols and ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Maintain a clean and safe working environment for the livestock and personnel.
- Other Duties:
- Assist in the implementation of general livestock husbandry and management practices.
- Carry out any other duties as assigned by the management.
Qualifications and Experience
- Minimum Education: Certificate or Diploma in Animal Health and Production, or any other relevant course.
- Experience: At least 5 years of experience in livestock health management, including spray race supervision, breeding programs, and general animal husbandry.
Key Skills and Competencies
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to collaborate effectively within a team.
- Detail-oriented and well-organized in record-keeping and task management.
- Ability to work independently and take initiative when required.
- Demonstrated commitment to the principles of wildlife conservation and community empowerment.
How to Apply