Laboratory and Diagnostics Officer

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 with a mission to address interrelated development challenges, FHI 360 employs a diverse team of experts across various fields including health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, and technology. The organization operates in multiple countries, leveraging its unique mix of capabilities to create impactful solutions. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding the welfare of everyone who engages with its programs and adheres to strict ethical standards in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Laboratory and Diagnostics Officer will play a crucial role in providing technical and operational support to the STRengthening Infectious Disease DEtection Systems (STRIDES) Activity in Guatemala. This position involves assisting with the implementation and monitoring of project activities aimed at enhancing laboratory systems and diagnostic capacities. The officer will provide technical assistance related to laboratory capacity building, biosafety, and biosecurity, working under the guidance of senior technical leadership. Responsibilities include conducting gap assessments, developing and updating biosafety/biosecurity manuals and SOPs, and implementing risk management approaches. The officer will also support hands-on training, competency assessments, and ensure compliance with national and international laboratory standards. Collaboration with country-level teams, including project management and technical advisors, is essential to ensure the effective delivery of project activities and coordination of laboratory strengthening initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Laboratory and Diagnostics Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties including: supporting the implementation of laboratory and diagnostic services, coordinating with Global Health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security technical areas, developing project protocols and training materials, and facilitating technical assistance to strengthen laboratory systems. The officer will assist in the implementation of laboratory network strengthening activities, provide operational support for new diagnostic tools, and contribute to laboratory capacity assessments. Responsibilities also include supporting the alignment of laboratory activities with project workplans, preparing technical reports, and ensuring compliance with biosafety and biosecurity standards. The officer will assess specimen transport systems, update SOPs, and train staff on safe packaging and transport procedures. Additionally, the officer will engage in logistics and supply improvements related to laboratory operations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a broad knowledge of laboratory and diagnostic-related concepts, practices, and procedures, particularly within the context of Guatemala's health and epidemiology landscape. A working knowledge of laboratory quality assurance and biosafety/biosecurity standards is essential. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in database management software and possess excellent organizational and analytical skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills in both Spanish and English are required, along with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in microbiology or its international equivalent in biological sciences within a clinical or diagnostic discipline is desirable. A Bachelor’s degree in microbiology or its international equivalent in biological sciences within a clinical or diagnostic discipline or a related field is required for this position.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 4 years of relevant experience in infectious disease diagnostics and/or laboratory systems strengthening. Prior experience with US-funded projects and familiarity with US regulations and reporting requirements is preferred. Demonstrated experience in laboratory practices, diagnostic techniques, quality assurance systems, and laboratory information management systems is essential. Experience in biosafety, biosecurity, and quality standards, as well as chain of custody procedures, is highly desirable. Proven experience in capacity-building activities such as training and mentoring laboratory personnel is also required.

Languages:
Proficiency in Spanish is mandatory, with strong written and verbal communication skills required. English language skills are also necessary, both written and verbal, to facilitate effective communication with international stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities and reports to the Laboratory and Diagnostic Specialist while collaborating closely with the Project director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Technical Director. The role may require domestic travel approximately 25% of the time. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and promotes a healthy work/life balance.