Laboratory Quality Specialist in Kenya

MSH seeks candidates for a USAID-funded program in Kenya that will build and expand upon previous successful TB control programs and will work with, and provide technical oversight to the Division of Leprosy, TB, and other Lung Disease (DLTLD). This project will seek increase drug sensitive Tuberculosis (TB) and drug resistant (DR-TB Case Detection (CDR) and Treatment Success Rate (TSR) in Kenya to meet targets for reducing the burden of TB; MDR-TB and TB/HIV co-infection. This position is contingent upon project award.

OVERALL RESPONSIBILITIES: The Laboratory Quality Specialist will be responsible to develop, co-ordinate and audit a comprehensive TB Laboratory Quality Management Program for TB microscopy laboratories in accordance with recognized standards of practice. He/she participates in conducting assessments, and in the design, training, testing, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of laboratory and point-of-care diagnostic services and systems. He/she participates in stakeholder technical working groups and meetings that continuously advocate for evidence- based standardization and harmonization of laboratory tests, methods and equipment within the national system. In addition, the incumbent is expected to provide technical leadership in national roll out of GeneXpert and other modern technologies to improve TB and DR-TB diagnosis and surveillance.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Work closely with the Division of Leprosy, TB and Lung Disease (DLTLD) of the Ministry of Health and with other partners in identifying and implementing the Project’s priority activities for TB microscopy quality improvement in Kenya. 2. Assist the laboratory working group of the DLTLD/CRL to finalize and implement the technical and operational Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all TB microscopy services and quality assurance of TB microscopy. 3. Assist DLTLD/CRL and data management staff to implement a TB Laboratory Management Information System in the microscopy laboratories and to collate the data from these centers. 4. Review the current system for supervision of the district hospital and health center microscopy sites and work with the DLTLD and CRL to make improvements and provide quarterly supervisory reports to the DLTLD and feedback to the health facilities. 5. Work with the CRL staff in the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of TB microscopy services. 6. Support the ongoing GeneXpert machine roll out in Kenya. 7. Provide support and Technical assistance to promote specimen referral and other laboratory related DR-TB diagnosis and surveillance activities. 8. Support DLTLD in developing or revision of key policies, guidelines and SOPs. 9. Also provide TA in the commodity selection, forecastion, distribution and ration use of TB laboratory related reagents and supplies. 10. Perform any other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS: 1. Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Sciences/Medical Laboratory Sciences (or equivalent qualification) with a minimum of five years post-qualification experience working in a diagnostic laboratory, essential. A higher qualification is an added advantage. 2. Post-qualification experience in performing TB microscopy is essential. 3. Current registration with the Kenya Medical Technicians and Technologist Board (KMMTB) mandatory. 4. Understanding of the role of the laboratory in TB Control and case detection. Familiarity with the diagnostic protocols for case detection employed by the DLTLD in Kenya, required. 5. Knowledge and experience of implementing internationally-recognized internal and external quality assurance systems for TB microscopy, in a developing country, required. 6. Able to perform multiple tasks simultaneously and to work independently with minimum supervision. 7. Excellent report writing, communication and diplomacy skills. Team player with ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates associates, other department directors and managers and external bodies. 8. Computer literacy; competency with Microsoft Office, data bases, internet and email systems required. 9. Fluency in written and spoken English essential. 10. Willingness and availability to travel to district hospitals and health centers within Kenya.

How to apply:

To apply please go to : https://jobs-msh.icims.com/jobs/6268/laboratory-quality-specialist/job