Lab and Diagnostic Advisor

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, youth, research, 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 Lab and Diagnostic Advisor position is a critical role within the STRIDES project, which is the United States Government’s flagship initiative for global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. This role is based in Bogotá, Colombia, and is focused on providing technical leadership and guidance on laboratory systems strengthening and diagnostics. The Advisor will be responsible for the day-to-day implementation of laboratory-related activities, ensuring that these activities align with Colombia's national health priorities and donor requirements. The position involves close collaboration with the Colombia STRIDES Project Director, relevant government entities, and in-country partners to enhance the technical quality of laboratory interventions. The Advisor will also oversee workplan timelines and budgets, contributing to the capacity building of the national laboratory system. This role requires a strong understanding of laboratory systems and public health, as well as the ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Lab and Diagnostic Advisor will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: providing technical leadership in laboratory systems strengthening and diagnostics; engaging with the Ministry of Health and relevant government entities to support laboratory-related activities; developing and implementing laboratory policies, standards, and quality improvement processes; maintaining ongoing technical dialogue with in-country counterparts and stakeholders; contributing to the development of tools, guidelines, and training materials; leading the day-to-day technical implementation of laboratory activities; tracking delivery of outputs against the workplan; identifying gaps in laboratory capacity and developing targeted strategies; providing technical mentorship and on-the-job support to national counterparts; preparing and delivering presentations on project progress; contributing to the development and review of annual reports and workplans; ensuring technical deliverables meet industry best practices and client obligations; and identifying areas for improved efficiency within prescribed parameters.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong technical knowledge of laboratory systems, biosafety, and quality management systems, as well as diagnostic methods including molecular methods and genomic sequencing. Familiarity with Colombia's public health system and national laboratory landscape is essential. The ideal candidate should have experience working with government counterparts and national health institutions in Colombia or the broader Latin American region. Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills in both Spanish and English are required. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate the ability to manage projects, set realistic priorities, and plan for successful implementation of activities. Proficiency in relevant computer software, including standard applications in MS Office, is also necessary.

Educational Background:
A Master’s Degree or its International Equivalent in Knowledge/Information Services, Communications, Education, Environment, Health, Behavioral, Life/Social Sciences, International Development, Human Development, or a related field is required. A PhD is preferred, along with Project Management (PM) Certification.

Experience:
Typically, candidates should have 8+ years of relevant experience in the technical implementation of large projects and/or programs. While the position may involve managing lower-level staff, the main function is as an individual contributor. Documented experience in providing technical assistance, capacity building, and business development in the specific technical domain is essential. Experience on USAID-funded projects in Colombia or the Latin America region is strongly preferred, as is prior work experience in a non-governmental organization (NGO), government agency, or private organization. Experience in international or domestic program development or program management is also preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in both Spanish and English is mandatory, as strong communication skills in these languages are essential for the role. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to require travel of approximately 10% - 25%. The anticipated hiring salary range for this role is COP 160,000,000 - 200,000,000 annually for basic salary. FHI 360 considers multiple factors when determining an offer amount, including relevant years of experience and education, internal equity, market pay, and budget. This job posting summarizes the main duties of the job and does not prescribe or restrict the exact tasks that may be assigned. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, committed to preventing any type of abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments and programs.