Senior Laboratory and Cold Chain Logistics 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, and economic development. The organization operates in over 70 countries and all U.S. states and territories, showcasing its extensive reach and commitment to global health and development.

Job Overview:
The Senior Laboratory and Cold Chain logistics-officer" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Logistics Officer plays a crucial role in supporting laboratory and surveillance operations in Ethiopia. This position focuses on ensuring the proper functioning and maintenance of cold chain systems and specimen transport networks. The officer will be responsible for monitoring specialized equipment such as cold rooms, vaccine refrigerators, and freezers to maintain the integrity of biological samples. Additionally, the officer will coordinate the safe and timely transportation of stool specimens and environmental samples, working closely with various stakeholders including surveillance teams and regional health authorities. The role also involves providing technical support to strengthen cold chain systems, identifying logistical bottlenecks, and contributing to the training of staff on cold chain management and specimen transport procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Senior Laboratory and Cold Chain Logistics Officer include providing technical oversight for cold chain management, ensuring compliance with national and Global Polio Eradication Initiative standards for specimen handling. The officer will monitor and maintain cold chain equipment, coordinate specimen transport logistics, and support the development of operational procedures to enhance efficiency. Responsibilities also include collaborating with health authorities to align transport systems with national policies, mentoring staff on best practices, and contributing to routine monitoring and reporting of cold chain performance. The officer will also be involved in project design and implementation, ensuring that cold chain activities are integrated into project work plans and budgets, and will be responsible for tracking performance indicators and addressing operational challenges.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess in-depth knowledge of laboratory and diagnostic concepts, experience in developing scopes of work, and familiarity with laboratory quality assurance standards. Proficiency in database management and sensitivity to cultural diversity are essential. Strong organizational, analytical, and project management skills are required, along with the ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. The role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with internal and external partners.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in microbiology or a related biological science is required, with a preference for candidates holding a Project Management (PM) Certification. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in clinical or diagnostic disciplines relevant to the role.

Experience:
Typically, candidates should have at least 6 years of relevant experience in infectious disease diagnostics or laboratory systems strengthening. Experience in POLIO surveillance and case investigation is preferred, along with prior work with USG-funded projects and familiarity with USG regulations. Extensive knowledge of laboratory practices and quality assurance systems is essential, as well as experience in capacity-building activities such as training and mentoring laboratory personnel.

Languages:
Fluency in Amharic is mandatory, and proficiency in English is preferred. The ability to read, write, and speak both languages will enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and facilitate effective collaboration.

Additional Notes:
This position may require up to 40% local and regional travel. The expected salary range for this role is between USD 21,333 and USD 30,000 annually, depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications. FHI 360 is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action, ensuring a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization also emphasizes safeguarding against abuse and exploitation in its programs and requires all personnel to adhere to a strict code of conduct.