Laboratory and Diagnostics Specialist

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 1975, FHI 360 has over 45 years of experience in Bangladesh, working to transform the country’s health and development landscape. The organization operates in more than 50 countries and all US states and territories, employing experts across various fields including health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, youth, research, technology, communication, and social marketing. FHI 360 collaborates with the Government of Bangladesh, civil society, academia, and the private sector to deliver integrated programs across critical sectors, focusing on essential health services such as HIV, nutrition, tuberculosis, and global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. The organization is also involved in the U.S. government’s Global Health Security program, which aims to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease threats.

Job Overview:
The Sr. Laboratory and Diagnostics Officer plays a crucial role in providing technical guidance for the STRengthening Infectious disease DEtection Systems (STRIDES) Activity’s laboratory and diagnostic strategy. This position involves supporting in-country staff with technical requirements in workplan design and quality assurance. The officer will implement and monitor strategic and technical initiatives, contributing expertise through the development and management of reports and technical materials. The role requires close collaboration with the Laboratory and Diagnostic Advisor and other STRIDES teams to ensure effective program implementation, evaluation of programmatic effectiveness, and the provision of technical assessment reports. The officer will also be responsible for mentoring laboratory staff and ensuring adherence to protocols, thereby enhancing the overall capacity of laboratory and diagnostic teams in the country.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key responsibilities of the Sr. Laboratory and Diagnostics Officer include providing day-to-day technical implementation support for laboratory and diagnostic strengthening activities, mentoring laboratory staff, and ensuring alignment with approved workplans. The officer will implement, monitor, and update laboratory protocols, SOPs, and training materials, while also supporting quality improvement actions based on performance findings. They will conduct analyses of STRIDES implementation to identify areas for improvement and propose technical strategies. The officer will assist with research studies, ensuring coordination and field-level implementation, and will contribute to the development of technical briefs and reports. Additionally, they will oversee project timelines and budgets, track technical project spending, and prepare reports summarizing STRIDES results and analyzing data sets. The officer will also ensure compliance with donor and regulatory requirements, staying updated on innovations in diagnostics and laboratory strengthening approaches.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree or an international equivalent in Knowledge/Information Services, Health, Human Development, Microbiology, Clinical Diagnostics, or a related field. A Project Management (PM) Certification is preferred. The position typically requires 6+ years of relevant experience in managing data collection and providing technical assistance. Proven knowledge and experience in the diagnosis of infectious diseases and strengthening laboratories to achieve international quality standards are essential. Candidates should also have prior work experience in a non-governmental organization (NGO), government agency, or private organization, along with sensitivity to cultural differences and understanding of ethical issues surrounding research and surveillance.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s Degree or an equivalent qualification in fields related to health, human development, microbiology, clinical diagnostics, or knowledge/information services. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of laboratory and diagnostic practices, as well as the broader context of health systems and infectious disease management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience, particularly in managing data collection and providing technical assistance in laboratory and diagnostic settings. Candidates should have a proven track record in the diagnosis of infectious diseases and experience in strengthening laboratories to meet international quality standards. Experience working in a non-governmental organization (NGO), government agency, or private sector is also necessary, along with the ability to manage multiple tasks and work effectively in a virtual environment.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Bangla is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills required for documentation and reporting. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but English and Bangla are essential for effective communication within the team and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position may require travel of approximately 10%-25%. The job posting emphasizes that it summarizes the main duties and does not restrict the exact tasks assigned. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, committed to preventing abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments. The organization also participates in the Inter-Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme (MDS) and conducts appropriate screening checks for all employment offers. FHI 360 offers a competitive benefits package and supports a healthy work/life balance.