AGRO Lab Supervisor

1. Laboratory Operations Management

·       Manage the day-to-day operations of the agricultural laboratory, including laboratory equipment, consumables, and testing schedules.
·       Ensure that all laboratory instruments are properly calibrated, maintained, and operating efficiently.
·       Develop, implement, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all laboratory analyses.

2. Visual Diagnosis and Sample Management

·       Receive and register tuber, stem, leaf, root, soil, and irrigation water samples submitted from farms, assigning a unique identification code to each sample.
·       Perform visual diagnosis using the naked eye and a stereomicroscope, documenting symptoms with photographs before conducting any laboratory tests.
·       Conduct preliminary differentiation between biotic disorders (fungal and bacterial diseases) and abiotic disorders (nutrient deficiencies and environmental stresses).
·       Ensure proper sample handling, storage, traceability, and disposal in accordance with laboratory procedures.

3. Fungal Diagnosis

·      Isolate and identify the major fungal pathogens affecting potato.
·      Prepare culture media, sterilize materials using an autoclave, and perform aseptic work inside a Laminar Flow Cabinet.

4. Bacterial Diagnosis

·       Isolate and identify bacterial pathogens using conventional bacteriological methods.
·       Prepare the required culture media and perform Gram staining when necessary.

5. Soil and Irrigation Water Analysis

·      Perform chemical analyses of soil and irrigation water, including EC, pH, Organic Matter (OM), Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃), and other relevant parameters.
·      Conduct physical soil analyses, including soil texture, bulk density, field capacity, and other physical properties.
·      Perform analyses for soil-borne pathogens.

6. Data Interpretation and Reporting

·      Interpret laboratory results and convert them into practical agronomic recommendations for farmers and the technical team.
·      Prepare and submit laboratory reports to senior management.
·      Maintain accurate records of all laboratory analyses, test results, and laboratory activities.

7. Quality Assurance

·       Implement Quality Control and Quality Assurance (QC/QA) procedures for all laboratory analyses.
·       Participate in proficiency testing programs to ensure the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results.
·       Troubleshoot laboratory equipment malfunctions and resolve testing-related issues.

8. Research Support

·      Support agricultural research and development (R&D) trials through laboratory analyses.
·      Assist in the development, validation, and continuous improvement of new laboratory testing methods.

9. Team Supervision

·      Supervise, train, and provide technical guidance to the Agro Lab Engineer.

Academic and Professional Qualifications

·       Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Sciences, Plant Pathology, Soil Science, or a related discipline.
·       A Master's degree is preferred.

Work Experience

·       Minimum of 3 years of experience in agricultural laboratory analysis.
·       Practical experience in the isolation and identification of plant pathogenic fungi and bacteria, preferably involving potato diseases or vegetable crops.
·       Hands-on experience in using compound and stereomicroscopes, preparing culture media, sterilization procedures, and working within a Laminar Flow Cabinet.
·       Experience in soil, irrigation water, and plant tissue analysis is preferred.

Skills and Competencies

·       Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
·       Excellent technical documentation and report-writing skills.
·       Knowledge of soil science, plant nutrition, and potato physiology.
·       Knowledge of irrigation management and Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
·       Ability to conduct field inspections and investigate crop health issues.
·       Good leadership, communication, coaching, and teamwork skills.
·       Proficiency in laboratory data interpretation and preparation of agronomic recommendations.
·       Familiarity with occupational health and safety requirements for laboratory and field operations.
·       Awareness of the Egyptian Labor Law (2025).