Animal Laboratory and Diagnostic Officer II

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 global challenges in health, education, and economic development, and it emphasizes the importance of collaboration with local partners to achieve sustainable impact.

Job Overview:
The Animal Laboratory and Diagnostic Officer II plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation of veterinary and animal health laboratory activities under the STRIDES Jordan Activity. This position is designed to provide both technical and operational support across various animal laboratory and diagnostics workstreams. The officer will work closely with the Laboratory and Diagnostic Advisor to develop laboratory tools and materials, ensuring that all activities align with Jordan's national veterinary laboratory standards. The role is integral to strengthening animal health diagnostic systems, enhancing quality management, and building the capacity of veterinary laboratory staff. The officer will also be responsible for donor reporting and tracking workplans, ensuring that all outputs are delivered on time and meet the required standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Animal Laboratory and Diagnostic Officer II will support the day-to-day implementation of animal health laboratory activities, which includes providing technical support for specimen collection, testing, quality control, and results reporting at both facility and national levels. The officer will assist in developing and disseminating veterinary laboratory protocols, standard operating procedures, training materials, and technical guidance for animal health diagnostic services. Additionally, the officer will work on strengthening quality management systems in animal health laboratories, ensuring compliance with OIE/WOAH standards and national veterinary laboratory accreditation requirements. Responsibilities also include monitoring and maintaining laboratory protocols, instruments, data sets, manuals, and training materials. The officer will conduct literature searches on veterinary diagnostics and zoonotic disease detection, respond to technical inquiries, and support the implementation of animal laboratory activities under the STRIDES Jordan workplan. The officer will ensure that technical implementation aligns with best practices and donor obligations, engage with the Ministry of Agriculture and relevant national counterparts, and assist in applying multisectoral approaches that link animal, human, and environmental laboratory diagnostic systems. The officer will also coordinate with operations and finance teams to ensure timely and budget-compliant implementation of activities, draft technical progress reports, prepare presentations on laboratory progress, and contribute to the development of annual workplans and technical deliverables.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a working knowledge of animal health laboratory systems, veterinary diagnostic methods, and quality frameworks, with familiarity in OIE/WOAH standards and FAO guidelines on veterinary laboratories being essential. An understanding of Jordan's veterinary laboratory network and relevant Ministry of Agriculture structures is advantageous. Knowledge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and its laboratory detection methods is also required. Strong organizational and analytical skills are necessary, along with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines. Proficiency in MS Office and relevant laboratory data management tools is expected, as well as the ability to analyze and interpret laboratory data accurately.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree or its international equivalent in Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Laboratory Sciences, Animal Science, Microbiology, or a related field is required. An advanced degree is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and knowledge in the relevant fields.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 4+ years of relevant experience in animal health laboratory systems, veterinary diagnostics, or a related technical area. Experience in supporting animal health laboratory strengthening programs in Jordan or the broader MENA region is preferred. Prior work experience in a non-governmental organization, government agency, or private organization operating in the public health or global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security space is also beneficial.

Languages:
Professional proficiency in both Arabic and English, both written and verbal, is required for this position. This bilingual capability is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the diverse working environment.

Additional Notes:
This position does not have formal supervisory responsibilities but may involve providing guidance to junior or support staff. The job posting emphasizes that it summarizes the main duties and does not prescribe or restrict the exact tasks assigned. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments. All offers of employment will be subject to appropriate screening checks, including reference, criminal record, and terrorism finance checks. FHI 360 also participates in the Inter-Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme (MDS) and will request information from previous employers regarding any substantiated findings of misconduct. The organization fosters a healthy work/life balance and offers a competitive benefits package.