National Consultant_TA Support Bio Medical Engineering

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) is a global organization that aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address their development challenges. In Nepal, UNDP focuses on various areas including health, governance, and environmental sustainability, striving to enhance the quality of life for all citizens. The organization employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with multiple stakeholders to implement impactful projects.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant for TA Support in Bio Medical Engineering will play a crucial role in the UNDP's project aimed at strengthening health resilience in Nepal, specifically targeting HIV, TB, and Malaria. This position involves providing expert consultancy services related to laboratory equipment specification, calibration, and maintenance planning. The consultant will be responsible for assessing the current status of laboratory equipment, which is critical for accurate diagnostics and effective service delivery. The overarching goal is to develop a structured calibration and maintenance plan that aligns with national directives and technical specifications, ensuring that laboratory operations are reliable and sustainable. This assignment is expected to span 60 days over a period of eight months, requiring the consultant to engage with various stakeholders and contribute to the overall improvement of health services in Nepal.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key responsibilities, including:

• Assessing the status of laboratory equipment across the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL), National Tuberculosis Centre (NTCC), and peripheral HIV/TB labs. This involves documenting the condition of equipment, identifying calibration and maintenance needs, and determining repair requirements in coordination with national health programs.
• Developing a comprehensive calibration and maintenance plan that is costed and aligned with national guidelines. This plan should cover both preventive and corrective maintenance, as well as annual maintenance contracts (AMC).
• Reviewing technical specifications for laboratory equipment to ensure they meet national standards and operational needs. This includes ensuring that specifications for calibration, maintenance, and procurement are appropriate and effective.
• Preparing detailed cost estimates to support efficient planning and decision-making processes related to laboratory equipment management.
• Collaborating with various stakeholders, including health officials and laboratory personnel, to ensure the successful implementation of the project objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in biomedical engineering or a related field, with a focus on laboratory equipment management. They should have a thorough understanding of calibration and maintenance processes for laboratory instruments, particularly in the context of health services. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate excellent analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams. Strong communication skills are essential for effectively conveying technical information to non-technical stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering, medical technology, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in biomedical engineering or laboratory management will be considered an asset. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of health systems and laboratory operations, particularly in the context of infectious diseases such as HIV and TB.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in biomedical engineering, with a focus on laboratory equipment management and maintenance. Experience working with health institutions, particularly in developing countries, is highly desirable. Familiarity with national health policies and guidelines related to laboratory services will be an advantage. Previous consultancy experience in similar projects will also be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all documentation and communication will be conducted in English. Proficiency in Nepali or other local languages is considered a plus, as it may facilitate better communication with local stakeholders and health officials.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an individual contractor role, and the assignment is expected to last for 60 days spread over eight months. The consultant will be required to submit proposals directly through the UNDP supplier portal by the specified deadline. The role is part-time, with flexibility in scheduling to accommodate the consultant's availability and the project's needs. Compensation details will be provided upon selection, and the consultant will be expected to adhere to UNDP's procurement guidelines throughout the assignment.