Assistant Technical Officer, Laboratory Services

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization that has been working in Nigeria for over 30 years, focusing on improving health and nutrition services. The organization has been actively responding to the humanitarian crisis in Northeast Nigeria for the past five years, providing essential support to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and host communities. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding vulnerable populations and ensuring a safe environment for all employees and beneficiaries. The organization operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to making a positive impact in the communities they serve.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Technical Officer, Laboratory Services will play a crucial role in providing technical support and implementing high-quality laboratory services within FHI 360's humanitarian program. This position is essential for addressing the urgent health needs of a vulnerable population affected by the humanitarian crisis in Northeast Nigeria. The ATO will be responsible for ensuring laboratory quality assurance at both the Local Government Area (LGA) and facility levels. The role involves preparing specimens, conducting detailed manual tests, overseeing automated analysis tests, and reporting results to assist in patient diagnosis and treatment. The ATO will work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to ensure high standards of patient care and laboratory services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Technical Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Working as part of a multidisciplinary team to provide high-quality patient care to vulnerable populations.
• Processing specimens, conducting tests, and reporting results with meticulous attention to detail.
• Operating laboratory instruments and equipment effectively.
• Maintaining organized records of specimens, tests, instrument logs, and technical analyses according to established protocols.
• Identifying problems and errors in laboratory processes and seeking corrective actions.
• Adhering to the relevant Code of Conduct and Ethics in all laboratory activities.
• Conducting and documenting appropriate quality control and assurance procedures.
• Assisting with quality assurance and performance improvement initiatives.
• Performing non-routine analyses as directed. 1
• Collaborating with technical support and Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) teams to collect baseline data throughout the project lifecycle. 1
• Compiling and submitting periodic reports on laboratory activities. 1
• Ensuring that infection prevention and control standards are maintained at all times. 1
• Performing any other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Laboratory Sciences or a related field, along with at least 1-3 years of post-National Youth Service experience in providing laboratory support. A thorough understanding of advanced laboratory procedures, diagnosis, and management related to care and treatment is required, with some experience in a humanitarian context preferred. Additionally, candidates must have a certification or license to practice as a medical laboratory scientist. Familiarity with the Nigerian public health sector, as well as experience working with NGOs and community-based organizations (CBOs), is highly desirable. Previous experience in a humanitarian crisis setting is also preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Laboratory Sciences or a related field. This educational background is essential for understanding the technical aspects of laboratory operations and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards in a humanitarian context.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 1-3 years of relevant experience in laboratory support, particularly in a humanitarian setting. This experience should include knowledge of advanced laboratory procedures and the ability to manage laboratory operations effectively. Familiarity with the challenges faced in humanitarian crises and the ability to work under pressure are critical for success in this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory, as it is essential for communication within the organization and with stakeholders. Additionally, proficiency in Hausa is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local communities and enhance the effectiveness of laboratory services in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and involves working in a challenging humanitarian environment. The role may require travel within the region, accounting for approximately 25% of the time. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding and protecting vulnerable populations, and all employees are expected to adhere to the organization's safeguarding policies. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and promotes a healthy work/life balance for its employees.