The Association of Public Health Laboratories (APHL), United States based non-profit Non-Governmental Organization, works on strengthening of public health laboratory system in USA and globally. In Ethiopia, APHL collaborates with the Ethiopia Public Health Institute (EPHI) to strengthen public health laboratory systems  including training,  laboratory quality management and information systems. 

APHL is seeking a Lead Specialist with experience in laboratory sciences, specifically in toxicology and/or clinical chemistry, as it relates to testing for trace metals in biological samples to support the laboratory systems strengthening project in Ethiopia. The Lead Specialist will work closely with APHL to liaise with the CDC Foundation, Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI), and other collaborating partners in Ethiopia, and implement agreed-upon strategies to enhance the public health laboratory network and improve overall surveillance systems. This position is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and will support activities including capacity assessment, sample collection and testing coordination, strategic planning, laboratory leadership, workforce development, sample referral and transportation, data management, quality management systems, and other laboratory testing activities.

Workstation: Addis Ababa. The lead specialist will also travel frequently to regional and hospital laboratories outside of Addis Ababa for technical support and/or attend meetings as required.

Employment Period: This is a full-time position for an initial period of 11 months, with the possibility of extension for up to four years, contingent upon the availability of funding

Required Number: 1

Main Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Support the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) and Ministry of Health (MoH) in providing technical assistance in designing, implementing, and monitoring strategies to strengthen the blood lead testing services, aligned with the national laboratory strategic plan.

• Provide laboratory training and mentorship on toxicology as it relates to blood lead level surveillance throughout the country. 

• Conduct assessments of the laboratories and assess readiness and capabilities to perform this testing. 

• Contribute to staff skills development and knowledge gain by individual and group teaching and training, especially in blood lead testing and the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Support procurement of laboratory equipment and supplies

• Support implementation of public health laboratory network enhancement activities; sample transport, blood lead testing, quality management systems, data management, workforce development, and biosafety and biosecurity.

• Represent APHL at national and regional meetings, coordinate and work with other stakeholders.

• Preparation and/or review of monthly reports to stakeholders. 

• Other duties as assigned and requested by APHL.

Job Requirements

Qualification

• Bachelor of Science and Postgraduate degrees in clinical, analytical chemistry, toxicology, medical laboratory science, biomedical science, environmental health or related field of specialization. 

Required skills

• Certified field professional in clinical chemistry, medical laboratory science, or related field.

• A minimum of six years’ work experience in analytical chemistry, clinical diagnostic testing services and/or research laboratory. 

• Demonstrated experience in trace metals analysis in biological samples. 

• Skilled in laboratory techniques, including toxicology and clinical chemistry for metals, quality management system, mentorship, publications/ manuscript development, strong verbal communication, and presentation skills are required

• Demonstrated experience in and an appreciation for quality laboratory service and strong QMS knowledge, skills, and experience.

• Experience engaging with stakeholders and performing training and stakeholder meetings.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively and collaboratively within a team and across multiple partners.

• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and interpersonal skills.

• Excellent work record that shows self-motivation.

• Skilled in the use of Microsoft Office software (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Ability to travel within Ethiopia and internationally to work for short-term assignments at laboratories outside commuting distance to home.

• Fluent in written and spoken English. 

Preferred

• Familiarity with analytical chemistry platforms, such as ICP-MS, Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS), and point-of-care testing, like Lead Care II. 

• Familiarity with developing and leading in-person and virtual training on laboratory techniques. 

• Knowledge of general laboratory quality management systems practice

Desired

• Knowledge and experience in blood lead testing in diverse populations (pediatric and adult, as well as those in high occupational risk groups). 

• Knowledge of laboratory information systems, including but not limited to electronic systems. 

• Knowledge of laboratory networks and quality management systems, including QA/QC programs. 

• Knowledge of sample management and transport systems within Ethiopia

How To Apply

An eligible applicant with the appropriate qualification and work experience should submit his/her application letter with the most recent and detailed CV.

Eligible applicants must submit the application directly online using THIS LINK

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted