Vacancy: Laboratory Specialist-Quality Management System (QMS)
Location: Nairobi
Proposed Start Date: June 2016
Introduction
Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation (MGIC) is an affiliate of University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB). UMB has a Global Health Program which is delivered through the Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation (MGIC) and housed by various institutes among them the Institute of Human Virology (IHV). Since 2004, IHV has partnered with the governments of Kenya, Guyana, Haiti, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia to address each country’s growing HIV and AIDS epidemics. The Institute has led efforts to build National Health Systems in each country via strategic international, national, and local collaborations through the design and implementation of unique education, training, and treatment programs addressing each country’s complex HIV/AIDS epidemics. In Kenya, UMB through the Institute of Human Virology started operations in 2004 under the AIDS Relief Project consortium funded by Presidential Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) through HRSA/CDC. This was the beginning of UMB’s work in Kenya which has seen implementation of 11 grants to-date. MGIC is seeking a suitably qualified person able to fill the position of Laboratory Specialist-Quality Management System, under the Boresha Maabara Grant.
Boresha Maabara Grant
“BORESHA MAABARA” (improve laboratory services) is a five (5) year project funded through the US Government Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) under the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The project seeks to enhance diagnostic testing for the prevention, surveillance and treatment of infectious diseases such as HIV and tuberculosis, and other HIV-related opportunistic infections. The project is implemented jointly by the Ministry of Health, National Public Health Laboratory Services, National Blood Transfusion Service and the respective County Governments.
Position Summary
Under the supervision of Senior Technical Advisor, the Laboratory Specialist-Quality Management System (QMS) will spearhead Quality Management Initiatives for the project at both national and in designated counties. In particular, the position shall support implementation of an integrated quality management plan with the purpose of attaining and or maintaining applicable ISO accreditation status/certification (ISO 15189 and ISO 17043). In addition, the position shall support optimal utilization of QMS data/information in improving coverage, efficiency and performance on EQA for HIV/TB core tests among other roles.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Facilitate ISO 15189 accreditation for the National TB Reference Laboratory (NTRL).
- Facilitate accreditation (ISO 17043) for National HIV Reference Laboratory (NHRL) Rapid HIV Test Proficiency Testing
- Support maintenance of accreditation status for the National HIV/TB Reference Laboratories.
- Facilitate the national reference laboratories enhance performance of EQA specific standards.
- Support integration initiatives of EQA tests (framework, networks, notification, and information).
- Support optimal utilization of QMS data/information in improving coverage, efficiency and performance on EQA for HIV/TB core tests as well as provision of quality HIV/TB diagnostic services
- Provide targeted mentorship and guidance to project technical staff including NPHLS staff and staff at designated county facilities to ensure quality standards are improved and maintained.
- Support mainstreaming of Rapid Test Kits (RTK) quality assurance initiatives.
- Represent the project at relevant Quality Management Systems forums.
- Perform any other duties as assigned by the supervisor.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum of Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory sciences or Bio medical Sciences or other relevant field from a recognized University. Individuals with a Master’s degree will have an added advantage.
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience in design and implementation of Laboratory Quality Management Systems in reputable laboratories.
- Demonstrated experience in implementation of quality management systems such as ISO 15189 and ISO 17043 among others.
- Individuals registered as assessors with Kenya Accreditation Service (KENAS) will have an added advantage.
Desired Skills
- Strong staff development, coaching, and mentoring skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work with various government institutions, counties and local partners.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (oral and written).
- Excellent analytical skills, presentation and problem solving skills.
- Innovative with a high degree of initiative
- Excellent organizational skills.
- Excellent communication skills.
HOW TO APPLY:
If you meet the above qualifications, you are requested to send your application and CV tohr@mgickenya.org by May 24, 2016. Candidates are required to quote the title of the position being applied on the subject line of the email. Only shortlisted candidate will be contacted.
Maryland Global Initiatives Corporation is an equal opportunity employer.