Laboratory and Diagnostics Officer

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization that focuses on improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a diverse workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization is dedicated to addressing the interconnected challenges of health, education, and economic development, and it emphasizes the importance of collaboration with local partners to achieve sustainable outcomes.

Job Overview:
The Laboratory and Diagnostics Officer will play a crucial role in the STRengthening Infectious disease DEtection Systems (STRIDES) Activity in Cambodia. This position is focused on providing hands-on technical implementation support specifically in the areas of laboratory and diagnostic services. The Officer will be responsible for offering technical assistance to STRIDES staff, ensuring that the technical requirements are met in workplan design and quality assurance. The role involves implementing and monitoring strategic initiatives, contributing expertise through the development and management of reports and technical materials. The Officer will work closely with the STRIDES Cambodia Project Director and Technical Advisor, as well as other teams, to evaluate programmatic effectiveness and oversee technical aspects of the project. This position requires a proactive approach to support the implementation of laboratory systems and diagnostic services, ensuring that the project objectives and targets are met effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Laboratory and Diagnostics Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including providing day-to-day technical support for laboratory and diagnostic services, which encompasses molecular diagnostics, genomic sequencing, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and quality management systems. The Officer will coordinate with other Global Health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security (GHS) technical areas to ensure synergy across the project. Responsibilities also include monitoring and maintaining project protocols, instruments, data sets, manuals, training materials, and reports. The Officer will respond to inquiries from both internal and external staff and collaborate closely with project staff to fulfill project objectives. Additionally, the Officer will contribute to the development of technical briefs and reports, support laboratory network strengthening activities, and assist in the scale-up of molecular diagnostics and genomic sequencing tools. The role also involves conducting assessments of laboratory capacity and diagnostic networks, contributing to research initiatives, and promoting the integration of new diagnostic technologies based on the country's needs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree or its international equivalent in fields such as Public Health, Epidemiology, Disease Control, or related areas. The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in infectious disease diagnostics or laboratory systems strengthening. Experience in training, mentorship, and supervision of laboratory staff is essential, particularly in molecular diagnostics and biosafety. Familiarity with USG-funded projects and regulations is preferred. Candidates should have a broad knowledge of laboratory practices, diagnostic techniques, and quality assurance systems, as well as an understanding of infectious diseases and their transmission.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a Bachelor’s Degree or its equivalent in relevant fields such as Public Health, Epidemiology, Disease Control, Civil Society, Communication, Economic Development, or related disciplines. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of laboratory systems and infectious disease diagnostics.

Experience:
The position typically requires at least 4 years of relevant experience, particularly in the context of infectious disease diagnostics and laboratory systems strengthening. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in training and supervising laboratory staff, as well as familiarity with quality assurance and biosafety protocols. Previous work experience in NGOs, government agencies, or private companies, especially with USG-funded projects, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Khmer is mandatory for this position. Candidates must be able to read, write, and speak both languages proficiently. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities and reports to the STRIDES Cambodia Technical Advisor. The job may require travel of approximately 10-25%. FHI 360 is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action, ensuring a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization emphasizes safeguarding against abuse and exploitation in its programs and requires all personnel to adhere to a code of conduct. Employment offers will be subject to screening checks, including reference and criminal record checks. FHI 360 provides a competitive benefits package and supports a healthy work/life balance.