Temporary
CIHEB Kenya - Nairobi
Posted 5 months ago

CIHEB Kenya

KENPHIA II Field Medical Laboratory Technologist – Nairobi, Kenya – CIHEB Kenya

Position: KENPHIA II Field Medical Laboratory Technologist
Company: CIHEB Kenya
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Type of Job: Contract, 6 Months
Reporting to: KENPHIA II Regional Laboratory Supervisor
Application Deadline: 4th November 2024

Introduction

CIHEB Kenya is seeking a Field Medical Laboratory Technologist to join the KENPHIA II Survey team in Nairobi, Kenya. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on community health by supporting the KENPHIA II Survey, which aims to enhance public health understanding through rigorous laboratory testing at the household level. The successful candidate will work in a dynamic environment, providing essential testing services while maintaining high levels of professionalism and confidentiality. This is a contract position for a 6-month period, offering an exciting chance for individuals passionate about field-based biomedical research and community service. The role is field-based, requiring flexibility and a willingness to travel across Kenya, including to rural and urban areas.

Key Responsibilities

As a Field Medical Laboratory Technologist, your role will include a variety of technical activities essential to the successful implementation of the KENPHIA II Survey. Key responsibilities include:

Participate in Full Survey Training: Attend comprehensive training sessions to understand the KENPHIA II Survey‘s purpose, implementation strategy, and the laboratory component’s critical role.
Implement Bio Marker Testing: Work in a team setting to carry out bio marker testing in households according to KENPHIA II Protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Ensure that testing results are accurately linked to prevention, care, and treatment services.
Organize and Manage Testing Supplies: Use approved KENPHIA II Field Supplies Management SOP to organize testing materials every morning, ensuring an uninterrupted testing service.
Verify Respondent Eligibility: Confirm eligibility of consented or assented respondents for blood draw and testing according to KENPHIA II Protocol.
Perform Phlebotomy: Conduct phlebotomy procedures as per KENPHIA SOPs, ensuring proper collection of blood samples for testing and aliquoting.
Label and Transport Samples: Accurately label samples and coordinate their transportation to satellite laboratories within defined time frames, following sample handling SOPs.
Test Controls and Perform Competency Evaluations: Conduct control tests every two weeks and participate in competency assessments every six months as outlined in the KENPHIA II Laboratory SOPs.
HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis B Testing: Perform HIV testing using a three-test algorithm, and Syphilis and Hepatitis B testing in line with KENPHIA II SOPs.
Screening of Children: Screen children under 18 months for DNA PCR testing at satellite laboratories using GeneXpert Point-of-Care (POC) systems.
Manage Household Waste: Dispose of biomedical waste following KENPHIA II Biosafety Waste Management SOPs.
Report Accidents and Incidents: Document and report any accidents or incidents during the testing process as per the Events Management SOPs.
Documentation and Data Entry: Accurately document all laboratory activities in forms, tools, and electronically using tablets.
Collaboration and Communication: Regularly communicate with KENPHIA II Regional Laboratory Supervisors to address challenges and receive necessary support.
Additional Responsibilities: Carry out other duties as assigned by field team leads to ensure the smooth operation of the KENPHIA II Survey.

Qualifications and Skills

Required Qualifications:

Degree or Diploma in Medical Laboratory Sciences or Biomedical Sciences.
Training in Phlebotomy with a minimum of 2 years’ experience in phlebotomy practice or training in an ISO 15189 Accredited Laboratory.
Valid Registration with the Kenya Medical Laboratory Technologist and Technician Board (KMLTTB), including a valid practicing license.
Experience in Quality Assurance measures throughout all phases of biomedical testing.
Experience with community-based research, especially related to HIV and ethical standards.
Proficiency in Point of Care (POC) Systems.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience working on the laboratory bench for at least three years.
Experience in large-scale population surveys such as IBBS, KDHS, KAIS, or KENPHIA.
Good communication skills and fluency in English, Kiswahili, and local languages relevant to fieldwork locations.

Key Skills:

Attention to Detail: Demonstrated ability to manage delicate laboratory equipment, perform accurate testing, and document results meticulously.
Technological Proficiency: Comfortable using electronic devices such as tablets and smartphones for data collection and entry.
Strong Interpersonal Skills: Ability to engage effectively with survey participants, demonstrating active listening, empathy, and social awareness.

Company Culture and Values

At CIHEB Kenya, we are committed to excellence in public health research and community service. Our team values integrity, transparency, and professionalism, striving to improve the quality of life for communities through evidence-based interventions. We emphasize collaboration and innovation, ensuring that each team member has the support they need to thrive. CIHEB Kenya offers a dynamic work environment where field-based research meets community engagement, allowing employees to make a real difference in public health.

Apply Now for KENPHIA II Field Medical Laboratory Technologist

Are you ready to join our team and contribute to the success of the KENPHIA II Survey? To apply for this position, please follow these steps:

Click on the “Apply Now” button below.
Submit your updated CV, a cover letter detailing your relevant experience, and copies of certifications.
Ensure your application reaches us by 4th November 2024.

Apply Now

Working Conditions and Travel Requirements

This role requires 100% field commitment, with significant travel across Kenya. Applicants must be willing to travel to rural and urban areas and be open to camping during survey periods.
Flexible Work Hours: Ability to work non-standard hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays as required.
Physical Demands: Must be capable of working long hours in field conditions, including outdoor settings.

Compliance Statements

We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all backgrounds. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

To apply for this job please visit cihebkenya.zohorecruit.com.