Technical Officer (Laboratory Systems)

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 implement effective programs that foster sustainable development and improve community health outcomes.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer (Laboratory Systems) position is part of the EpiC Global Health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security (GHS) project, which is funded by the U.S. Government and implemented by FHI 360 alongside core partners such as Right to Care, Palladium International, and Population Services International (PSI). This role is crucial in supporting the strengthening of laboratory systems, biosafety and biosecurity, disease surveillance, and outbreak preparedness in Mozambique. The Technical Officer will work closely with national institutions and provide technical assistance, laboratory equipment, reagents, workforce development, and quality management systems to enhance the capacity of veterinary and public health laboratories. The Officer will be responsible for supporting laboratory assessments, implementing quality management systems, and contributing to the overall objectives of Mozambique's Global Health Security and One Health initiatives. This position requires a proactive approach to ensure high-quality implementation and effective coordination of laboratory strengthening activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Officer will have a range of responsibilities including: providing technical support for biosafety and biosecurity activities, conducting laboratory risk assessments, managing specimen handling and sample referral systems, and preparing for outbreak responses. The Officer will also implement laboratory quality management systems in accordance with international standards such as ISO/IEC 17025 and ISO 15189, which includes conducting gap assessments, internal audits, and preparing for accreditation. Additionally, the role involves supporting laboratory procurement processes, developing technical specifications, evaluating equipment, and managing laboratory information systems. The Officer will plan and deliver training programs, conduct field visits to monitor implementation, and coordinate with various stakeholders to ensure effective execution of EpiC GHS activities. The Officer will also be responsible for preparing technical reports, work plans, and donor deliverables, and may perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in Veterinary Medicine, Medical Laboratory Science, Biomedical Science, Microbiology, or a related health or laboratory science discipline. A minimum of four years of progressively responsible professional experience in laboratory systems strengthening, laboratory quality management, or related technical programs is required. Candidates should demonstrate hands-on experience in laboratory operations, including microbiology and molecular diagnostics, as well as experience in conducting laboratory assessments and developing improvement plans. Familiarity with laboratory quality management systems and accreditation processes is essential, along with strong program documentation and report writing skills.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Veterinary Medicine, Medical Laboratory Science, Biomedical Science, or Microbiology. This educational background is critical as it provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding laboratory systems and public health practices.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of relevant professional experience, which should include progressively responsible roles in laboratory systems strengthening and quality management. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in laboratory operations, including microbiology and molecular diagnostics, as well as experience in supporting laboratory quality management systems and accreditation activities. Experience in program documentation and technical report writing is also necessary.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory, and professional working proficiency in English is also required. These language skills are essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and international partners.

Additional Notes:
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities but reports directly to the Laboratory Specialist. The role may involve domestic travel within Mozambique, estimated at 10-25%, with limited regional travel possible. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse and harassment in the workplace. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and emphasizes professional development and work/life balance.