Laboratory Specialist

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 over 30 years ago, FHI 360 operates in more than 50 countries and all U.S. states and territories. The organization employs experts across various fields including health, education, nutrition, environment, and economic development, allowing it to address complex development challenges effectively. In the Philippines, FHI 360 has been active since 1994, focusing on comprehensive health and development solutions, and has partnered with the government, civil society, and private sector to enhance community capacities and institutional frameworks for sustainable impact.

Job Overview:
The Laboratory Specialist will play a crucial role in the STRIDES Activity, providing hands-on technical support for laboratory systems strengthening initiatives. This position involves implementing and monitoring strategic initiatives, contributing expertise in developing reports and technical materials, and evaluating program effectiveness. The Laboratory Specialist will work closely with the Laboratory Systems Strengthening Advisor and other teams to ensure the successful implementation of laboratory systems and diagnostic services, thereby enhancing the capacity to manage and respond to infectious disease threats.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Laboratory Specialist will conduct day-to-day technical implementation activities for laboratory systems strengthening, including molecular diagnostics and genomic sequencing. Responsibilities include monitoring project protocols, maintaining data sets and training materials, and providing technical assistance to fulfill project objectives. The role also involves developing technical briefs and reports, supporting laboratory network strengthening activities, and ensuring adherence to quality standards. The Specialist will analyze project implementation, identify areas for improvement, and propose strategies to manage risks. Additionally, the position requires building relationships with stakeholders, preparing work plans and reports, and ensuring project activities align with overall goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess extensive knowledge of laboratory and diagnostic concepts, practices, and procedures. Experience in developing scopes of work for subcontractors and familiarity with quality assurance systems is essential. The ability to communicate effectively, organize tasks, and manage projects is crucial. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and possess strong analytical skills to interpret data and prepare reports. Sensitivity to cultural diversity and understanding of political and ethical issues in the field are also important.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in medical technology, Public Health, Microbiology, or a related field in biological sciences is required. The educational background should be equivalent to a clinical or diagnostic discipline, ensuring the candidate has the foundational knowledge necessary for the role.

Experience:
Typically, candidates should have at least 4 years of relevant experience in infectious disease diagnostics or laboratory systems strengthening. Experience in training and mentoring laboratory staff on molecular diagnostics and quality assurance is preferred. Prior work experience with NGOs, government agencies, or private companies, especially in USG-funded projects, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Tagalog is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in a typical office environment with some local and regional travel (10-25%). The expected hiring salary range is PHP 720,000 - 840,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse and harassment in the workplace. All offers of employment will be subject to appropriate screening checks.