Agricultural Data Scientist Job Vacancy in Kajiado, Kenya – Agriculture

Job Description

Position:Agricultural Data Scientist

Company:Kenya Tea Development Agency

Location:Kajiado, Kenya

Experience:3-5 years

Education:Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Agriculture, or related field

Employment Type:Full-time

Industry:Agriculture

Department:Research & Analytics

Salary:SSP 150,000 – SSP 250,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) is the world’s largest smallholder tea farming organization, empowering over 600,000 tea growers across Kenya. With a legacy of more than five decades, KTDA has transformed the tea sector through innovative agronomic practices, robust supply chain management, and a commitment to sustainable development. The agency’s mission is to increase farmer incomes, improve tea quality, and promote environmental stewardship, making it a cornerstone of Kenya’s agricultural economy.

As a leader in the tea industry, KTDA invests heavily in research and technology to drive productivity and resilience. The organization collaborates with international research institutes, government bodies, and private sector partners to introduce cutting‑edge solutions that address climate change, pest management, and market volatility. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, KTDA offers its employees a dynamic environment where data‑driven decision making is at the heart of every operation.

Joining KTDA means becoming part of a purpose‑filled organization that values innovation, integrity, and impact. Employees enjoy access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities, professional development programs, and a supportive community that celebrates the contributions of every team member. This is a unique opportunity for professionals seeking to make a tangible difference in Kenya’s agricultural landscape while advancing their careers in a globally recognized institution.

Job Overview

The Agricultural Data Scientist will play a pivotal role in harnessing large‑scale data sets to optimize tea production, improve yield forecasts, and enhance supply chain efficiency. Working within the Research & Analytics department, you will collaborate with agronomists, engineers, and business analysts to develop predictive models, conduct spatial analysis, and generate actionable insights that drive strategic decisions. This position is central to KTDA’s digital transformation agenda, supporting the agency’s commitment to data‑enabled agriculture and sustainable growth.

For more details, visit Kenya Job Search. The role offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and the chance to contribute to high‑impact projects that shape the future of tea farming in Kenya. It is an ideal fit for candidates passionate about leveraging analytics to solve real‑world agricultural challenges and eager to be part of a forward‑thinking organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy machine learning models to predict tea leaf yield, disease outbreaks, and optimal harvest times.
• Perform geospatial analysis using satellite imagery and IoT sensor data to monitor field conditions and recommend precision interventions.
• Collaborate with agronomists to translate agronomic variables into quantifiable data features for modeling.
• Build interactive dashboards and visualizations that communicate complex insights to stakeholders at all levels.
• Maintain data pipelines, ensuring data quality, integrity, and compliance with privacy standards.
• Conduct statistical analyses to evaluate the impact of new farming practices and technology deployments.
• Provide technical mentorship to junior analysts and contribute to a culture of data literacy across the organization.

Required Skills

• Proficiency in Python or R for data manipulation, statistical modeling, and machine learning.
• Experience with GIS tools such as QGIS, ArcGIS, or Google Earth Engine.
• Strong knowledge of SQL and NoSQL databases, data warehousing, and ETL processes.
• Ability to interpret agricultural data, understand crop physiology, and work closely with agronomy experts.
• Excellent communication skills to present findings to non‑technical audiences.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud) for scalable model deployment.
• Problem‑solving mindset with a focus on delivering actionable business outcomes.

Education

A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Agricultural Engineering, or a related discipline is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in machine learning, GIS, or agronomy are considered an advantage.

Experience

Applicants should have 3 to 5 years of professional experience in data science, analytics, or related fields, preferably within the agricultural sector or a comparable environment that involves large‑scale environmental data.

Salary

The position offers a competitive salary range of SSP 150,000 to SSP 250,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Performance‑based bonuses and incentives are also part of the compensation package.

Benefits

• Health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision care.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Paid annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Professional development allowance for certifications, workshops, and conferences.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.

Training

• Onboarding program covering KTDA’s operations, data infrastructure, and agricultural processes.
• Continuous learning opportunities in advanced analytics, AI, and precision agriculture.
• Mentorship from senior data scientists and agronomy experts.

Working Environment

KTDA provides a collaborative, inclusive, and technology‑driven workplace. Employees work in modern office spaces equipped with high‑speed internet, advanced analytics tools, and access to field sites for hands‑on data collection. The organization promotes work‑life balance and encourages innovative thinking.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit an online application through the KTDA careers portal, attaching a current resume and a cover letter outlining relevant experience and motivation for the role. Shortlisted applicants will undergo a technical assessment followed by interviews with the hiring panel.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Kenya Tea Development Agency is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or background. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.