Senior Technical Officer - Laboratory Services and QMS

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, and economic development, and aims to create a positive impact through innovative programs and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The Senior Technical Officer - Laboratory Services and QMS will play a crucial role in leading the development and successful implementation of project workplans and achieving targets and deliverables. This position requires providing technical, management, and financial leadership to projects while ensuring effective communication and coordination with partners. The officer will be responsible for strengthening laboratory systems, including point-of-care services, and will oversee laboratory audits, ensuring compliance with national guidelines. The role also involves mentoring staff and providing technical assistance to improve the quality of laboratory services in health facilities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Technical Officer will provide technical leadership and support for laboratory services related to HIV/AIDS care and treatment. Responsibilities include coordinating the design and implementation of laboratory components, providing expertise in diagnostics and quality management systems, leading training initiatives, conducting assessments, and overseeing internal audits. The officer will develop quality control systems, prepare laboratories for accreditation, manage project budgets, and ensure timely reporting. Additionally, the officer will liaise with external stakeholders, support business development efforts, and apply lessons learned to improve laboratory services.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a comprehensive knowledge of clinical laboratory functions and quality management systems. Experience in managing laboratory services, particularly in health facility-based settings, is essential. Strong communication skills, organizational abilities, and the capacity to handle multiple projects are required. Familiarity with national and international laboratory standards and regulations is necessary, along with project leadership and supervisory experience.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in medical laboratory sciences or a doctorate degree in laboratory sciences is required. Candidates should have 7 to 9 years of relevant experience for a Master’s degree or 5 to 7 years for a doctorate. Certification or license to practice as a medical laboratory scientist is mandatory, along with experience in a clinical laboratory setting and donor-funded programs.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of experience in a laboratory setting, with at least 3 years in HIV laboratory management within a donor-funded program. Proven experience in project development, planning, and facilitating technical training is essential. Prior management experience is preferred, along with familiarity with the Nigerian public health system and NGOs.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in the host country language is desirable. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both written and spoken forms.

Additional Notes:
The position may require travel within Nigeria up to 25% of the time. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding and providing a safe environment for all employees and beneficiaries. The organization adheres to equal opportunity and affirmative action principles, ensuring no discrimination based on race, gender, or other protected characteristics. The job posting does not specify a deadline for applications, and candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.