Laboratory Technician/ Technologist at Water Reed Program-Tanzania

Locally known as the Walter Reed Southern Highlands AIDS Program, the Henry Jackson Foundation Medical Research International (HJFMRI) is an international non-governmental organization working in several countries conducting research studies and providing care and treatment to people. From the American People affected by HIV / AIDS. HJFMRI is funded by the Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief PEPFAR. In collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHSW), HJFMRI has been leading a comprehensive HIV/AIDS care and treatment program in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania since 2004 with support from the President's Emergency Plans for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The program is based within the Mbeya Referral Hospital and has since extended to more than 100 health facilities in Mbeya, Rukwa and Ruvuma regions, which collectively represent a catchment area of about 6 million people. Mbeya region is one of high prevalence regions in Tanzania and expansion of HIV care and treatment programs is critical.

Walter Reed Program is seeking qualified candidate to fill the positions below.

Reports to: Laboratory Coordinator.

Location: Dar es Salaam

General Overview

The purpose of this position is to perform routine laboratory analysis and related tasks. Support the laboratory Coordinator in leading WRP participation of the execution of national level strengthening in malaria test-based diagnostics in coordination with Tanzania Government health bodies and USG Presidential Malaria Initiative (PMI). The incumbent will be expected to relocate to Dar es Salaam. Tanzania and travel to field locations on a regular basis. working evenings and weekends and may involve working with bio hazardous materials.  

Duties and Responsibilities:

Develop site strengthening plans, coaching and mentoring;

Provide field level technical assistance for malaria microscopy and mRDT testing sites to develop and support accurate and quality assured malaria diagnostics, and Improves malaria testing practices;

Participate in formal and informal malaria microscopy and MRDT training; Complete projects by assisting Laboratory Coordinator; attending and participating in group and project meetings;

Plan and execute all activities according to relevant legislation and applicable standards;

Resolve problems by examining and evaluating data; selecting corrective steps;

Assist in the evaluation of current activities and practices, seeking and developing new or innovative laboratory practices to improve laboratory services delivery, maintaining proficiency with current and future equipment and support for maintenance of equipment.

Assist in the evaluation of existing saps, assistance in selection and coordination of appropriate training, equipment, analysis of existing data, development of best-practice, and evidence-based approaches to WRP priority areas.

Work with other USG agencies and Ministry of Health and Social Welfare counterparts in developing national SOPs and QA / QC measures and programs.

Assist to develop a plan for malaria Rapid Diagnostics Test (ROT) scale-up in participating labs with supervision of the quality assurance training and coordination.

Assist to leverage PMI - Tanzania to implement the developed QA/QC protocol in malaria diagnostics.

Support the Tanzania Government health bodies to improve laboratory standards to WHO accreditation levels.

Work with committees, providing support and undertaking assigned tasks as needed as part of the overall USG effort under PMI.

Identify training needs and foster a productive team environment. Complete other projects as needed.

Required Skills, Knowledge & Experience  

Advanced Diploma or Diploma in related scientific or laboratory science discipline

At least 3 years laboratory experience       .

Knowledge and experience in clinical laboratory Science, quality management systems and ISO 15189 and WHO standards for accreditation.

Knowledge of malaria diagnostics methodology and technology

An ability to communicate effectively including a high standard of verbal, written and interpersonal skills;

Ability to troubleshoot technical procedures

Ability to work independently and supervise others.

Good computer skills including experience in Word and Excel

Walter Reed Programs an equal opportunity employer: women are highly encouraged to apply.

Application Instructions:

Cover letters and resumes should be sent to the

Human Resources Manager,

P.O. 80x 6396.

Mbeya

 NOTE: to be considered applicants must put the TITLE OF THE J0B in the SUBJECT LINE. Those who do not meet the minimum requirements as detailed below should not submit applications.