Background

The Laboratory Technical Manager – Wastewater Surveillance will support the Association of Public Health Laboratories (APHL) laboratory systems strengthening work. APHL is a US based non-profit that works to strengthen laboratory systems serving the publics health in the United States and globally Through a contract with The Gobal Fund, APHL is supporting the Ministry of Health and its partners to establish waste water-based surveillance (WWBS) for SARS-CoV-2. The candidate will possess an advanced degree and extensive laboratory experience in molecular testing in Tanzania. The candidate will serve as a full-time APHL Tanzania consultant for the contract term, with an extension subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funds. This consultancy will be based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and some travel within the country and abroad maybe required.

APHL (www.APHL.org) works to strengthen laboratory systems serving the public’s health in the United States and globally.

Scope

APHL is seeking a Laboratory Technical Manager – Wastewater Surveillance with laboratory sciences experience in molecular PCR testing, next-generation sequencing (NGS), and public health to support Tanzania’s public health laboratory system. The scope of work will primarily focus on supporting a forecasted Global Fund WWBS project. This individual will work with the APHL Technical Manager to liaise with MoH, and other partners in Tanzania and implement agreed-upon strategies to enhance WWBS pilot project. The individual will have a strong understanding of the laboratory systems in Tanzania with relevant experience. In addition, the candidate will demonstrate excellent communication in English and Swahili, as well as excellent organizational skills.

Responsibilities

Support APHL Tanzania and provide technical assistance in designing, implementing, and monitoring WWBS pilot project.

Qganize and conduct laboratory training and mentorship on molecular PCRtesting (clinical and environmental samples), and NGS at the National Public Health Laboratory.
Support procurement of laboratory equipment, supplies, and quality assurance materials as required.
Represent APHL at national and regional meetings (as appropriate).
Coordinate and work with diverse groups or organizations and partners, including laboratory leaders and laboratory facility staff, international development organizations, APHL, and CDC.
Preparation and/or review of monthly reports to partners.
Other duties as assigned and requested
Knowledge

Required:

Knowledge and experience in molecular PCR testing, diagnostic microbiology, and confirmatory and specialized testing for priority infectious diseases.

Knowledge of laboratory networks and quality management systems.

Preferred:

Knowledge of environmental microbiology.

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

Knowledge of NGS techniques, bioinformatics, and general quality management systems in place in laboratory practice.

Skills

Synthesize information, Write it up, and translate it into action. Skilled in laboratory techniques, including molecular testing, quality management system, accreditation, mentorship, publications/ manuscript development, strong verbal communication, and presentation skills are required in English and Swahili.

Abilities

Ability to maintain an approachable attitude, act consistently and provide realistic advice in the context of resources. Ability to effectively engage and collaborate with partners and stakeholders with varying priorities. Ability to work with stakeholders to prioritize the needs and guide the planning process.

Minimum Qualifications

Required:

A degree or master’s degree in molecular biology or medical laboratory or biomedical science or other related A graduate degree is preferred.
Six years plus of experience in clinical diagnostic testing or research labs.
Demonstrated interest in and an appreciation for quality laboratory service and strong GMS knowledge, skills, and experience.
Knowledgeable of current developments in the diagnosis of infectious diseases, including molecular methods (PCR and NGS).
Experience/knowledge strengthening laboratories to achieve international quality standards.
Experience in organizing and conducting high-level meetings and trainings that involve different stakeholders.
Experience engaging with stakeholders.
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.
Skill in the use of Microsoft Office software (M.S. Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Ability to travel within Tanzania to work for short-term (1-2 week) assignments at laboratories outside commuting distance to home.
Ability to travel internationally for short-term 2-4 weeks for training purposes (as appropriate).
Fluent in written and spoken English.
Preferred

Knowledge and experience within public health programs in Tanzania.
The duties and responsibilities maybe assigned as required. APHL reserves the right to amend or change this position description to meet the needs of its programs.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a colleague to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the colleague is required to sit for long periods at atime; standing, lifting, walking, typing using a computer keyboard; visually read information off of a computer monitor; talk, hear, and orally communicate information over the telephone. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision and color vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Position Reports to APHL Country Director