Employment Opportunities

TYPE OF VACANCY: Staff

REPORTS TO: The Animal Health Inspection Program Coordinator

DEPARTMENT: Veterinary Services

JOB SUMMARY: Reports to The Animal Health Inspection Program Coordinator. The Animal Health Inspector is responsible for the execution of the inspection program and participate in training of in inspection activities. The successful candidate shall have strong networking skills, teaching, communication, written and organizational skills to ensure that the inspection program is carried out efficiently. This individual must be able to adapt to the changes and embrace challenges as they arise and master them.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The duties of the Animal Health Inspector include but are not limited to the following:

• Assist in execution of an inspection plan and program;
• Identify and monitor Prospective Ports of Entry, farms and feed mill.
• Participate or execute the inspection activities in BAHFSA and collaborating agencies;
• Organize/plan training workshops and other activities;
• Collaborate with agencies involved in inspection activities to establish inspection programs within each agency;
• Prepare presentation materials;
• Assist with public and agency awareness of SPS and other implementation activities;
• Engage in on the job training opportunities;
• Other responsibilities as requested

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Possess animal health inspection knowledge;
• Possess basic office and computer skills in using Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint;
• Have organizational, communication, office management and teaching skills;
• Be able to work independently and interact professionally when addressing staff and visitors;
• Be a team player and work effectively and supportively with others;
• Be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor of Science degree or an accepted equivalent;
• A minimum of two (2) years’ work experience.

Interested applicants should send the following to the Human Resources Department via email:

• A cover letter of interest highlighting work experience and accomplishments;
• Current Curriculum Vitae or Resume;
• Copies of Relevant Qualifications and Certificates;

Submit electronically to:

Email: [email protected]
Attention: Human Resources

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: 30th April, 2024

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the Animal Health Inspector.

TYPE OF VACANCY: Staff

REPORTS TO: Director

DEPARTMENT: Veterinary Services

JOB SUMMARY: The Administrative Assistant reports to the Veterinary Services (VS) Director and is responsible for the day-to-day office maintenance of the VS. The successful candidate shall have strong communication, written and organizational skills to ensure that the office is running smoothly and be able to liaise with other office personnel to address their needs. This individual must be able to multitask and may be required to travel on occasion.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The duties of the Administrative Assistant include but are not limited to the following:

• Provide office support to the Director, officers and other Unit professionals;
• Perform clerical duties such as answering phones, taking memos, and maintaining files, sending and receive correspondence, as well as greet clients;
• Be able to monitor and record expenditures within the Unit using Microsoft Excel;
• Organize/plan meetings (inquire about participants’ availability) and other events; it may require research of vendor pricing;
• Schedule appointments;
• Prepare presentation materials;
• Assist with documentation of information;
• Store/file, organize and manage files;
• Type, edit and proofread documents;
• Take dictation or record the minutes of a meeting;
• Prepare meeting minutes in a timely manner;
• Engage in on the job training opportunities;
• Other responsibilities as requested.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Possess basic office and computer skills in using Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint;
• Have organizational, communication, office management, and basic bookkeeping and accounting skills;
• Be able to work independently and interact professionally when addressing staff and visitors;
• Be a team player and work effectively and supportively with others;
• Be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate’s degree. Preferred degree in secretarial science, office management or any other clerical degree;
• A minimum of two (2) years’ work experience.

Interested applicants should send the following to the Human Resources Department via email:

• A cover letter of interest highlighting work experience and accomplishments;
• Current Curriculum Vitae or Resume;
• Copies of Relevant Qualifications and Certificates;

Submit electronically to:

Email: [email protected]
Attention: Human Resources

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: 30th April, 2024

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the Administrative Assistant.

TYPE OF VACANCY: Staff

REPORTS TO: Director

DEPARTMENT: Veterinary Services

JOB SUMMARY: The Surveillance Coordinator reports to the Veterinary Services (VS) Director and is responsible for planning and implementing a program to prevent, survey and prepare for, monitor and respond to animal health emergencies including diseases and pests of interest to prevent their introduction or spread. The successful candidate shall have strong communication, written and organizational skills to ensure that the surveillance program is running smoothly and be able to liaise with other staff in the VS and collaborating agencies to implement the program. This individual must be able to multitask and may be required to travel on occasion.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The duties of the Surveillance Coordinator include but are not limited to the following:

• Assist with planning an effective program for the prevention, traceability, surveillance, monitoring, preparedness and response to animal health emergencies including diseases, pests and other conditions of animal, human or environmental health concern;
• Liaise with collaborating agencies and staff nationally, regionally and internationally in order to implement the plan;
• Assist with establishing and manage a diagnostic plan to develop the capacity and program required to effectively implement and support the surveillance program;
• Organize/plan meetings (inquire about participants’ availability) and other events; it may require research of vendor pricing;
• Establish a traceability program for local and imported animals and animal products;
• Prepare presentation materials and conduct meetings, workshops and other fora to assist in implementing the surveillance plan;
• To assist with training of animal health inspectors and staff in collaborating agencies along with agro-producers and the public in the identification, reporting and response to diseases, pests and other animal health emergencies;
• Assist with documentation of information;
• Store/file, organize and manage files;
• Type, edit and proofread documents;
• Attend national, regional and international meetings;
• Engage in on the job training opportunities;
• Other responsibilities as requested.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Proven knowledge and experience in animal health diagnostics, surveillance and traceability programs;
• Be able to work independently and interact professionally when addressing staff and visitors;
• Be a team player and work effectively and supportively with others;
• Be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree or equivalent;
• A minimum of two (2) years’ work experience in surveillance and/or diagnostics.

Interested applicants should send the following to the Human Resources Department via email:

• A cover letter of interest highlighting work experience and accomplishments;
• Current Curriculum Vitae or Resume;
• Copies of Relevant Qualifications and Certificates;

Submit electronically to:

Email: [email protected]
Attention: Human Resources

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: 30th April, 2024

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the Surveillance Coordinator.

TYPE OF VACANCY: Staff

REPORTS TO: Director

DEPARTMENT: Veterinary Services

JOB SUMMARY: The Animal Health Inspection Program Coordinator reports to the Veterinary Services (VS) Director and is responsible for the planning of the inspection program as well as the management and training of all staff involved in inspection activities. The successful candidate shall have strong teaching, communication, written and organizational skills to ensure that the inspection program is planned and managed effectively so as to implement and enforce the Act and to liaise with collaborating agencies in order to do so. This individual must be able to multitask and may be required to travel on occasion.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The duties of the Animal Health Inspection Program Coordinator include but are not limited to the following:

• Assist in establishing and implementing an inspection plan and program;
• Identify and monitor prospective inspectors in the school and elsewhere;
• Train and facilitate the training of staff involved in inspection activities in BAHFSA and collaborating agencies;
• Organize/plan training workshops and other activities;
• Collaborate with agencies involved in inspection activities to establish inspection programs within each agency;
• Prepare presentation materials;
• Assist with public and agency awareness of SPS and other implementation activities;
• Engage in on the job training opportunities;
• Other responsibilities as requested.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Possess animal health inspection knowledge;
• Possess basic office and computer skills in using Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint;
• Have organizational, communication, office management and teaching skills;
• Be able to work independently and interact professionally when addressing staff and visitors;
• Be a team player and work effectively and supportively with others;
• Be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

• Doctor of Veterinary medicine degree or an accepted equivalent;
• A minimum of two (2) years’ work experience in inspection programs and training.

Interested applicants should send the following to the Human Resources Department via email:

• A cover letter of interest highlighting work experience and accomplishments;
• Current Curriculum Vitae or Resume;
• Copies of Relevant Qualifications and Certificates.

Submit electronically to:

Email: [email protected]
Attention: Human Resources

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: 30th April, 2024

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the Animal Health Inspection Program Coordinator.

JOB SUMMARY: The Food Safety and Quality (FSQ) Authorized Officer reports to the FSQ Director and will be required to perform certain specified functions of a Food Inspector. The successful candidate shall have strong communication, written and organizational skills to ensure that the inspection of food businesses is done in a transparent and efficient manner.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Upon presentation of an identification badge, enter any place where there is reason to believe that food is produced, manufactured, preserved, prepared, packaged, stored, sold, transported, imported or exported and may:
  • examine any such food and take samples thereof for testing, and examine or package and submit for testing anything which the AO has reason to believe is used or is capable of being used in such foods;
  • enter or examine any vehicle that is believed on reasonable grounds, to be used to carry food that contravenes the Food Safety and Quality Act and examine any such food found therein and take samples thereof for testing;
  • stop and search any vehicle in which food is being or is reasonably suspected of being handled or stored or in which any other activity in connection with food is being, or is suspected of being carried out;
  • open and examine any receptacle or package that the AO believes on reasonable grounds contains any food;
  • take photographs and conduct videotaping of the food business, including of any records requested during an inspection;
  • in the prescribed manner, examine and take samples to test or analyze any food, substance or other thing;
  • read any measuring instruments installed on site premises or use any other means necessary to record data generated in that business;
  • determine whether any of the provisions of this Act are being violated;
  • ensure that proper food safety measures are being carried out;
  • examine and inspect food handlers and other personnel employed therein;
  • inspect any operation or process carried out on such premises.
• Where it appears to an AO that the food at a food business is unfit for human consumption and that the food is harmful or is likely to cause harm to human health, the AO shall:
  • order the operator to remove the food for a specified period in order to take samples of the food for analysis; and
  • if the operator fails to do so, the AO shall take samples of the food for analysis.
• The AO shall immediately notify the Director where action is taken in (2) in instances where it appears that any food is likely to harm or cause harm to human health.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of food safety systems (e.g., HACCP, ServSafe, GHP, GAP, GMP);
• Possess basic office and computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint;
• Be able to work independently and interact professionally when engaging food operators and their staff;
• Communicate effectively when completing inspection reports, providing findings and recommendations;
• Have good time management skills and be able to meet deadlines;
• Attention to detail to ensure the FSQ Act and Regulations are met during inspections or investigations.
• Be a team player and work effectively and supportively with others;

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Bachelor of Science Degree preferably in Food Science, Food Technology, Food safety, Environmental Health, Food Safety & Quality Management, or any biological science degree);
• An equivalent combination of training and experience of at least 2 years indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills and abilities;
• Public officers are not eligible to become an Authorized Officer;
• Candidate must have access to a proper working vehicle to conduct inspections.

Stipend

• Note that this is not a full-time post;
• Candidates will receive a monthly stipend.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: 30th April, 2024

Interested applicants should send the following to the Human Resources Department via email: [email protected] Attention: Human Resources

• A cover letter of interest highlighting work experience and accomplishments to the position;

• Current Curriculum Vitae or Resume;

• Copies of Relevant Qualifications and Certificates;

JOB SUMMARY: The Administrative Assistant reports to the Food Safety and Quality (FSQ) Director, and is responsible for the day-to-day office maintenance and support of the FSQU. The successful candidate shall have strong communication, written, computer and organizational skills to ensure that the office is running smoothly and be able to liaise with other office personnel in the Unit to address their needs. This individual must be able to multitask and may be required to travel on occasion.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide office support to the Director, Officers and other Unit professionals;
• Perform clerical duties such as answering phones, taking memos, and maintaining files, sending and receive correspondence, as well as greet and assist clients;
• Be able to monitor and record expenditures within the Unit using Microsoft Excel;
• Organize/plan meetings (inquire about participants’ availability) and other events; it may require research of vendor pricing;
• Schedule appointments;
• Review and Prepare presentation materials, print and bind documents;
• Assist with documentation of information;
• Store/file, organize and manage files;
• Type, edit and proofread documents and reports;
• Take dictation or record the minutes of a meeting;
• Prepare meeting minutes in a timely manner;
• Engage in on the job training opportunities;
• Other responsibilities as requested.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Possess basic office and computer skills in using Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint;
• Be able to assist in the development and design of informational materials using Canva;
• Have organizational, communication, office management, and basic bookkeeping and accounting skills;
• Be able to work independently and interact professionally when addressing staff and visitors;
• Be a team player and work effectively and supportively with others;
• Be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate’s degree. Preferred degree in secretarial science, office management or any other clerical degree;
• A minimum of two (2) years’ work experience.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: 30th April, 2024

Interested applicants should send the following to the Human Resources Department via email: [email protected] Attention: Human Resources

• A cover letter of interest highlighting work experience and accomplishments to the position;

• Current Curriculum Vitae or Resume;

• Copies of Relevant Qualifications and Certificates;

JOB SUMMARY: The Food Safety and Quality (FSQ) Surveillance Programme (SP) Coordinator reports to the FSQ Director and is responsible for planning and implementing a program to survey, monitor, prevent and respond to diseases and pests of interest to prevent their introduction or spread in the food chain. The successful candidate shall have strong communication, written and organizational skills to ensure that the surveillance program is running smoothly and be able to liaise with other staff in the FSQ Unit and collaborating agencies to implement the program. This individual must be able to multitask and may be required to travel on occasion.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (include but are not limited to the following):

• Assist in establishing and implementing a surveillance plan and programme to monitor, trace, prevent and respond to diseases, pests and other conditions that affect food safety and quality;
• Collaborate locally and internationally with enforcement agencies to implement the plan;
• Prepare presentation materials to assist in identifying, reporting and responding to diseases, pests and other agents that affect food safety and quality;
• Identify and plan training workshops and other activities to build staff capacity;
• Identify and plan training workshops to assist vendors in developing and strengthening their food business surveillance protocols;
• Prepare presentation materials and other promotional items such as flyers, brochures and videos (small clips) for public education;
• Engage in on the job training opportunities;
• Other responsibilities as requested.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Proven knowledge and experience in food safety systems and foodborne disease diagnostics, surveillance and traceability programs;
• Possess basic office and computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Canva;
• Have organizational, communication, training and research skills;
• Be able to work independently and interact professionally when addressing staff, clients and industry colleagues;
• Be a team player and work effectively and supportively with others;
• Be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously;
• Be research oriented (ideal if the applicant has participated in research in the past).

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master of Science degree; Preferred degree in Food Microbiology, Food Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry or other relevant natural science or applied degree;
• An equivalent combination of training and experience of at least 2 years indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills and abilities.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: 30th April, 2024

Interested applicants should send the following to the Human Resources Department via email: [email protected] Attention: Human Resources

• A cover letter of interest highlighting work experience and accomplishments to the position;

• Current Curriculum Vitae or Resume;

• Copies of Relevant Qualifications and Certificates.

TYPE OF VACANCY: Part-Time Staff

REPORTS TO: Plant Health Inspections Program Coordinator

DEPARTMENT: Plant Protection Unit

JOB SUMMARY: Reporting to the Plant Health Inspections Program Coordinator, the Authorized Officer will be responsible for performing certain functions of a Phytosanitary Officer, such as surveillance, the inspection of plants, plant products and other regulated articles; regulation and enforcement of phytosanitary measures at ports of entry and plant establishments for the detection of plant pests and diseases to prevent their entry and establishment in the Bahamas.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: As an Authorized Officer at BAHFSA, you will play a critical role in safeguarding plant health and ensuring the prevention and control of plant pests. Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct thorough inspections of agricultural facilities, including farms, nurseries, and research institutions, to assess compliance with the Plant Protection Act (2016).
• Collect plant specimens and perform basic diagnostic analysis on plant specimens to identify pests and diseases. Collaborate with specialists for in-depth analysis when required.
• Conduct pest risk analysis to evaluate and mitigate the potential risks associated with the introduction and spread of pests, diseases, and invasive species.
• Ensure adherence to the Plant Protection Act (2016) and international phytosanitary regulations. Provide guidance to stakeholders on compliance measures.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of inspections, diagnostic results, and pest risk assessments. Prepare reports for regulatory authorities.
• Conduct educational sessions and training programs for farmers, agricultural professionals, and other stakeholders to raise awareness about plant health and best practices.
• Collaborate with other government agencies and agricultural organizations to stay informed about emerging threats and to prevent the introduction and spread of pests, diseases, and invasive species.
• Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as required.
• Performing miscellaneous job-related duties as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Experience in phytosanitary inspections, diagnostic analysis, and pest risk analysis. Familiarity with regulatory frameworks and international standards is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to assess and address plant health issues effectively.
• Ability to interpret laws and regulations and apply them to specific situations.
• Ability to analyze situations accurately and take effective action.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Ability to convey technical information to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team and external stakeholders.
• Attention to detail in inspections, analysis, and reporting.
• Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and stay current with evolving plant health practices and technologies.

IN ADDITION, THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:

• Knowledge of the phytosanitary field;
• Excellent computer skills.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Plant Science, or a related field. Advanced degrees or certifications in plant health are desirable.

STIPEND:

• Note that this is not a full-time post;
• Candidates will receive a monthly stipend.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: 30th April, 2024

Interested applicants should send the following to the Human Resources Department via email:

• A cover letter of interest highlighting work experience and accomplishments to the position;
• Current Curriculum Vitae or Resume;
• Copies of Relevant Qualifications and Certificates;
• At least three (3) written professional references.

Submit electronically to:

Email: [email protected]
Attention: Human Resources

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the Authorized Officer.