Laboratory and Diagnostics Officer

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in a long-lasting way by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established with a mission to address interrelated development challenges, FHI 360 employs experts in various fields including health, education, nutrition, environment, and economic development. The organization operates in over 50 countries, including Liberia, and all U.S. states and territories, showcasing its extensive reach and commitment to global health and development.

Job Overview:
The Laboratory and Diagnostics Officer will play a crucial role in providing technical leadership and guidance for the anticipated United States Government (USG)-funded Global Health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security project in Liberia. This position involves leading and managing the development, implementation, and monitoring of strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening laboratory systems and diagnostic capacities. The officer will be responsible for ensuring adherence to laboratory standard operating procedures and will work closely with various stakeholders to enhance the quality of diagnostic testing. The role requires a proactive approach to addressing challenges in laboratory capacity and improving access to diagnostic services, thereby contributing to the overall health security of the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Laboratory and Diagnostics Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties including providing overall technical leadership for the laboratory and diagnostic services component of the STRIDES project. This includes monitoring project protocols, collaborating with national and local counterparts, and developing technical briefs and reports. The officer will also lead the implementation of laboratory strengthening initiatives, provide mentorship to project team members, and conduct assessments of laboratory capacity. Additionally, the officer will promote the integration of new diagnostic technologies, develop project work plans, and ensure that project activities align with overall goals. Regular reporting and communication with stakeholders will also be a key responsibility, along with managing project timelines and budgets.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in microbiology or an equivalent in biological sciences related to clinical or medical laboratory diagnostics. The position requires extensive knowledge of laboratory practices, diagnostic techniques, and quality assurance systems. Familiarity with infectious diseases and their control methods is essential, along with demonstrated experience in capacity-building activities such as training and mentoring. Prior experience with USG-funded projects and collaboration with government agencies or NGOs is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in microbiology or its international equivalent in biological sciences within a clinical or medical laboratory diagnostic discipline is required. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of laboratory systems and diagnostics, as well as for effectively implementing and managing laboratory strengthening initiatives.

Experience:
Typically, candidates should have at least 4+ years of relevant experience in infectious disease diagnostics and laboratory systems strengthening. This experience should include knowledge of laboratory practices, diagnostic techniques, and quality assurance systems in various health sectors. Proven ability to design and manage laboratory initiatives, along with experience in training and mentoring laboratory personnel, is also necessary for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the officer must be able to read, write, and speak the language proficiently. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
The expected hiring salary range for this role is USD 19,000 - 22,000 annually. FHI 360 offers a competitive compensation package and is committed to equal opportunity employment. The organization emphasizes a healthy work/life balance and provides professional development opportunities. The position may require travel of 10% - 25%. Candidates are encouraged to apply online, and only pre-selected candidates will be contacted. FHI 360 is dedicated to safeguarding against abuse and exploitation in its work environments and programs.