Laboratory Technician I , Narok, Kenya at FHI 360 157 views0 applications

Position Description

Position Title:  Laboratory Technician I

Reports To:     Laboratory Specialist (CQI Lead)

Location:        Kericho

Project Description

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.

JOB SUMMARY:

Provides laboratory technical assistance, capacity building, training, laboratory audits and assessments, quality assurance and blood safety services to clinical laboratories being supported through a cooperative agreement with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (HHS/CDC).

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:  DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Working closely with Laboratory Specialists in the FHI 360 field and Nairobi offices to provide technical assistance, quality assessment and capacity building services to ensure and enhance the quality of laboratory services associated with FHI 360 program. This position will focus their efforts on providing technical support to the FHI 360-led laboratory strengthening program in the Rift Valley, and Western Kenya. Specifically, the key responsibilities are:

Serve as laboratory quality management system and service delivery improvement mentor in selected health facilities within the region Offer onsite face-to-face laboratory staff mentorship and training on documentation and SOPs, sample management and collection techniques, sample packaging, sample referral systems, quality assurance, results handling, biosafety and waste management Liaise with facility Medical Superintendent, clinicians, laboratory staff and nurses to establish and strengthen the laboratory-clinical services interface. Promote safe blood transfusion practices and blood safety through technical assistance in adaption of developed policies, standards and guidelines and training of laboratory staff Work in collaboration with the county laboratory coordinators, laboratory in-charges and facility managers to strengthen laboratory networking to ensure efficient testing for TB, HIV rapid, HIV viral load, EID PCR and OIs and acceptable turn-around times for these testing. Support the development of laboratory policies, strategic plans, management and monitoring tools both at the county and facility level to improve services as may be required from time to time Offer technical advice on laboratory commodities forecasting, ordering, re-stocking and stores management to eliminate stock outs. Provide technical assistance for equipment including validation, calibration, certification and routine servicing to ensure efficient operation and minimal test interruptions Spearhead efficient implementation of both facility and project action plans as required. Assist with the preparation of project progress reports and tracking project progress. Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL, ABILITIES, EXPERTISE AND COMPLEXITY:

Working knowledge of quality assurance systems including pertinent national and international regulations and guidance. This knowledge to include direct experience implementing SLMTA/SLIPTA. Proven capability and direct experience in clinical and research laboratory functions and services, including in resource constrained settings. Proven capability and direct experience in conducting HIV and TB diagnostics. Resourceful and creative thinker with the ability to develop simple and efficient solutions and recommendations. Excellent attention to detail. Excellent interpersonal skills, particularly diplomacy. Good in both written and spoken English and report writing.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS STANDARDS:

• Higher National Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology or equivalent with 3-5 years of experience.
• At least four years related work experience within a clinical or research laboratory including experience with laboratory quality control and quality assurance systems
• Ability and aptitude to provide laboratory technical assistance and capacity building services and to perform quality assurance assessments against accepted national and international standards and regulations.
• Demonstrated creative problem solving skills.
• Demonstrated excellent written and oral communication skills including experience in training and mentoring staff and others.
• Supervisory experience is an added advantage.
• Experience with US government PEPFAR funded programs is an added advantage

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.

FHI 360 fosters the strength and health of its workforce through a competitive benefits package, professional development and policies and programs that support healthy work/life balance. Join our global workforce to make a positive difference for others — and yourself.

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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.