Laboratory and Diagnostics Officer

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to 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 workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, and economic development, aiming to create a positive impact on communities worldwide. FHI 360 is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, ensuring that all employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to the organization's mission.

Job Overview:
The Laboratory and Diagnostics Officer will play a crucial role in providing technical leadership and guidance for the implementation of laboratory and diagnostic components of the Strengthening Infectious Disease Detection Systems (STRIDES) Activity in Ghana. This position involves leading and managing the development, implementation, and monitoring of strategic and technical initiatives aimed at strengthening laboratory systems and enhancing diagnostic capacities. The officer will work closely with country-level teams, including project management and technical providers, to ensure effective technical assistance is provided, ultimately leading to high-quality and reliable laboratory services. The role also includes developing guidelines and policies for laboratory diagnostic network strengthening, contributing to project statements of work, and ensuring the alignment of laboratory activities with overall project goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Laboratory and Diagnostics Officer will be responsible for providing overall technical leadership and strategic guidance for the laboratory and diagnostic services component of the STRIDES project. This includes coordinating with other technical areas to ensure synergy and monitoring project protocols, instruments, data sets, manuals, training materials, and reports related to diagnostic services. The officer will collaborate with national, regional, and local counterparts to provide necessary technical assistance, lead the development of technical briefs and reports, and offer subject matter expertise for laboratory and diagnostic network strengthening activities. Additionally, the officer will promote the adoption of new diagnostic technologies, develop and monitor project work plans, conduct analyses to identify areas for improvement, and build productive relationships with stakeholders. The role also involves overseeing project timelines and budgets, preparing reports summarizing project results, and ensuring compliance with project objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in laboratory practices, diagnostic techniques, and quality assurance systems. They should have proficiency in database management software and online search tools, as well as excellent oral and written communication skills. The ability to analyze and interpret data, identify errors, and prepare reports is essential. Candidates should demonstrate sensitivity to cultural diversity and possess strong organizational and analytical skills. A basic working knowledge of concepts and practices related to providing technical support for research studies is also required.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in microbiology or its international equivalent in biological sciences within a clinical or medical laboratory diagnostic discipline or specialty is required. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of laboratory diagnostics and infectious disease management.

Experience:
Typically, candidates should have at least 4+ years of relevant experience working with infectious disease diagnostics and/or in laboratory systems strengthening. Extensive knowledge of laboratory practices, diagnostic techniques, and quality assurance systems is essential. Experience in capacity-building activities, such as training and mentoring laboratory personnel, is also highly desirable. Prior work experience with United States Government (USG) funded projects and proven experience working with government agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) will be advantageous.

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 considered an asset, particularly if they relate to the local context or the populations served by the project.

Additional Notes:
The expected hiring salary range for this role is indexed to USD 13,000 - 18,000 for annual basic salary. FHI 360 considers various factors when determining an offer amount, including relevant years of experience and education, internal equity, market pay, and budget. The organization is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action, ensuring that all applicants are considered without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law. FHI 360 also emphasizes safeguarding and preventing abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments and programs.