Technical Specialist (Clinical Laboratory - and Medical Devices)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a large workforce dedicated to serving children and communities globally, fostering a culture of belonging and growth, and providing an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Job Overview:
The Technical Specialist (Clinical Laboratory - and Medical Devices) is responsible for managing a portfolio of clinical laboratory and medical equipment, devices, and instruments. This role involves applying specialized product knowledge to establish technical specifications, standards, and guidelines for procurement. The specialist collaborates with field offices and the Programme Division to strengthen country capacity in procurement and supply of medical equipment. The position requires a proactive approach to market research, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and supporting UNICEF's strategies in collaboration with various stakeholders. The specialist will also contribute to policy guidelines, technical capacity building, and assist in needs assessments for improving access to essential products.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with UNICEF Programme Division, Regional Advisers, WHO, and other partners to create and review policy guidelines in the area of clinical laboratory and medical devices.
• Review, develop, and maintain technical supply specifications for a portfolio of clinical laboratory and medical equipment, ensuring completeness and appropriateness.
• Conduct technical adjudication for procurement tenders related to the portfolio.
• Advise programs and partners on technical matters regarding commodities.
• Manage UNICEF’s portfolio of clinical laboratory and medical equipment and devices.
• Conduct market research to identify potential sources for procurement and analyze innovations.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and quality management system requirements.
• Support the development of cost estimates for clinical laboratory equipment and related services.
• Assist UNICEF country offices and government partners with needs assessments for design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and implementation. 1
• Contribute to technical capacity building at UNICEF Offices and implementing partners. 1
• Perform any other duties related to managing the portfolio as requested by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:

• Master or equivalent (Advanced University Degree) in clinical laboratory technologies, biomedical engineering, clinical biology, biotechnology, or similar relevant disciplines.
• Additional advanced degree in public health or business administration is an asset.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive relevant professional experience with hospital laboratory and medical equipment technology.
• Extensive knowledge of Quality Assurance management and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience in supporting procurement and supply of medical equipment in developing countries is essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as clinical laboratory technologies, biomedical engineering, or clinical biology. An additional advanced degree in public health or business administration is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of progressive relevant professional experience is required, particularly in hospital laboratory and medical equipment technology. Hands-on experience in developing countries is essential, particularly in settings where preventive, diagnostic, and curative services are provided. Candidates should have extensive knowledge of quality assurance management and regulatory frameworks related to clinical laboratory and medical equipment.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration in diverse environments.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve international recruitment. UNICEF offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave, breastfeeding breaks, and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates must be prepared for background checks and medical clearance, and must comply with vaccination requirements. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.