Laboratory Systems Technical Director, CDC Vietnam Project

Position Title: Laboratory Systems Technical Director

Opportunity Name: Expanding Efforts and Strategies to Protect and Improve Public Health in Vietnam

About FHI 360:

FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Our staff includes experts in health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, gender, youth, research and technology — creating a unique mix of capabilities to address today's interrelated development challenges. FHI 360 serves more than 70 countries and all U.S. states and territories. We are currently seeking qualified candidates the positions of Laboratory Systems Technical Director.

Job summary and responsibilities:

The Laboratory Systems Technical Director will provide leadership and oversight for activities to “improve national laboratory systems with effective quality management” as part of the anticipated CDC Vietnam: Expanding Efforts and Strategies to Protect and Improve Public Health in Vietnam project. The opportunity will support USG global health priorities in Vietnam by implementing programs and activities that strengthen public health programs. The main outcomes stated in the solicitation are to: “1) improve prevention of avoidable epidemics including naturally occurring outbreaks and intentional or accidental releases of dangerous pathogens; 2) improve ability to rapidly detect threats early, including detecting, characterizing, and reporting emerging biological threats; by 3) responding rapidly and effectively to public health threats of international concern.”

The Technical Director will provide technical expertise, and lead coordination and supervision of all laboratory strengthening activities. They will provide technical support and supervision in collaboration with project management teams to ensure the successful planning and implementation of laboratory strengthening activities, including work planning, budgeting, supportive supervision, technical support and reporting. The Technical Director will provide laboratory related representation for the CDC project at national and subnational levels and collaborate with laboratory-related national mechanisms and institutions in supporting laboratory strengthening activities.

Please note that the positions are contingent upon successful award of the project and the selection of the final applicant is subject to donor approval. The positions will be based in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Specific responsibilities may include but are not limited to:

• Providing technical leadership in laboratory quality and quality management systems; and in the design, development, planning, implementation of project activities.
• Providing guidance to ensure that program implementation adheres to appropriate laboratory technical standards and guidelines and that programs are technically sound.
• Developing and leading the implementation of strategies, workplans and quality improvement programs for laboratories supported by the project.
• Sharing laboratory best practices and contributing to the knowledge base through participation in scientific forums and technical networks; sharing new knowledge/evidence and best practices with the project team, partners and host countries.
• Identifying areas for improved efficiency or effectiveness within prescribed parameters, and institutes enhancements to procedures.
• Developing and maintaining collaborative relationships with donor/client organizations, relevant government agencies, bilateral and other NGOs.
• Reviewing, analyzing and evaluating the effectiveness of the project and makes recommendations for enhancements.
• Developing strategies and tools for the design and implementation of laboratory capacity building components.
• Representing the organization to external entities at professional meetings and conferences.
• Maintaining collaborative relationships with donor/client organizations, relevant government agencies, bilateral and other NGOs and consistently maintained and viewed as a knowledgeable resource in their technical area.

Qualifications and experience:

• A master’s degree in science or public health (MPH); advanced degree including MD, PhD, MD, DVM, or DrPH in science, public health or an equivalent field preferred.
• 10 years of experience in clinical laboratory medicine in developing countries with at least 5 years’ experience in a laboratory quality management role.
• Knowledge and experience in the laboratory diagnosis of infectious diseases including specific hands-on laboratory experience.
• Informed of current laboratory developments in the diagnosis of infectious diseases including point-of-care and molecular methods.
• Knowledge and experience with strengthening laboratories to achieve international quality standards including against ISO 15189 and/or SLMTA/SLIPTA.
• A demonstrated ability to work with multiple partners on collaborative projects.
• Familiarity with international biosafety regulations.
• A demonstrated ability to create and maintain effective working relations with host country governments and international organizations, (including senior government officials), and U.S. Government Agencies.
• Ability to manage projects, set realistic priorities, and plan for the successful implementation of activities.
• Excellent English communication skills; fluency in Vietnamese.

This job description summarizes the main duties of the jobs. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks that may be assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.

FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. FHI 360 is an equal employment and affirmative action employer whereby we do not engage in practices that discriminate against any person employed or seeking employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other
status or characteristic protected under applicable law.

How to apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply and submit their CVs/resumes and cover letters to [email protected] as soon as possible, but no later than August 1, 2020.

***In the application email, candidates are encouraged to use the subject line: “Laboratory Systems Technical Director, CDC Vietnam project”