FHI 360
Laboratory Specialist
Duty Station : Dar es Salaam (TANZANIA)
More information about this job:
About FHI 360:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Our staff includes experts in health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, gender, youth, research and technology — creating a unique mix of capabilities to address today's interrelated development challenges. FHI 360 serves more than 70 countries and all U.S. states and territories. We are currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of: Laboratory Specialist/Technician.
Description:
The Laboratory Specialist has primary responsibility for planning, conducting and reporting assessments, audits, and accreditation-ready inspections of clinical laboratories supported under the program. This role will also prepare reports and lead the follow-up of those visits to include corrective actions and capacity building initiatives. Further, the Laboratory Specialist will assist with laboratory capacity building initiatives in Tanzania preparing and delivering trainings. The position will also involve coordinating and facilitating the clinical laboratory quality improvement program including preparing laboratories for ISO 15189, SLMTA and GCLP accreditation; preparing and delivering laboratory trainings and training-related services to FHI 360 research program and to external agencies; and providing technical assistance to diagnostic laboratories in Tanzania.
Job Summary / Responsibilities:
Responsible for the planning, conduct, and reporting of assessments, audits, and accreditation-ready inspections of clinical laboratories against ISO 15189, SLMTA and GCLP performing services to the program.In close collaboration with laboratory management lead the follow-up of needed corrective and preventive actions following audits.Responsible for developing and implementing continuous improvement initiatives upon request to build laboratory capacity and quality with reference to ISO 15189, SLMTA and GCLP standards and requirements.Take active role in developing generic Quality Manual, SOPs, and work instructions with reference to ISO 15189, SLMTA, GCLP and other standards.Provide technical assistance to laboratories and others as needed and requested as part of overall capacity building and continuous improvement schemes.Preparation of training materials and deliver trainings to research program, laboratory staff and external agencies.Provide technical assistance to set up (laboratory set up plan review) and quality operation (develop and review SOPs, develop instrument and supplies list and develop and review carry over contamination prevention plan) of diagnostic laboratories in Tanzania.Plan, conduct, and report assessments, audits, and accreditation-ready inspections of clinical laboratories performing services to the program.Following audits/assessments identify any needed corrective and preventive action to resolve critical areas of non-compliance and communicate this in writing to appropriate laboratory management staff and FHI 360.In close collaboration with laboratory management develop and assist with the implementation of corrective actions and implementation of continuous improvement systems, procedures, and measures.Assist laboratories with developing quality systems to include an overall Quality Management Plan, routine SOP development, quality control and quality assurance systems, staff training, and others as needed.Provide technical assistance to laboratories as part of overall capacity building and continuous improvement schemes.Assist with the preparation and delivery of trainings to laboratory staff to include general laboratory technician training and laboratory supervisor training.Encourage and assist laboratories with preparing for and seeking accreditation through locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally accepted accreditation agencies.Assist laboratories with setting up internal or participating in External Quality Assessment Schemes (EQAS).Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's Degree with min. 5-8 years experience.Proven capability and direct experience in clinical laboratory functions and services.Proven and excellent clinical laboratory auditing skills and experience with ISO 15189, GCLP or SLMTA.Excellent attention to detail.Resourceful and creative thinker with the ability to develop simple and efficient solutions and recommendations.Working knowledge of quality assurance including pertinent national and international regulations and guidances.Excellent knowledge in diagnostics for HIV and TB.Excellent interpersonal skills, particularly diplomacy.Good in both written and spoken English and report writing.Direct experience developing and delivering trainings in scientific areas.
This job description summarizes the main duties of the job. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks that may be assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.
We offer competitive compensation and an outstanding benefit package. Please click here to visit FHI 360's Career Center for a list of all open positions.
FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. FHI 360 is an equal employment and affirmative action employer whereby we do not engage in practices that discriminate against any person employed or seeking employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other status or characteristic protected under applicable law.