JOB DETAILS:
Major function of the position
The Laboratory Technologist will be a point of contact for all samples that are referred from the mapped spokes to the facilities with the capacity to test them or test laboratories.
The Laboratory samples involved with sample referral are Viral load, EID/DBS, TB Sputum, CD4, Samples for the CrAg test, Biopsy, and Samples for the PrEP Clients.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities:
• Work at the supported Laboratory and other supported facilities as a Laboratory Scientist/Technologist carrying out laboratory diagnostic and clinical monitoring tests including diagnostic Nucleic Acid PCR assays, Genotyping, and Proteomics.
• Track sample collection from all spokes around the hub, support the spokes with supplies, receive samples, aliquot plasma, and store samples as per requirements.
• Document all samples and results received at the hub to the Electronic Sample Referral System – ESRS and Document all rejected samples.
• Making follow-up on the availability and use of Lab M&E tools (HVL samples collection registers, High VL registers, Samples Logbooks, VL & EID request form books, Samples collection SOPs, and Job aids.
• Ensures the availability of supplies for sample collection and initial processing of samples received from the spokes including sample collection tubes, Pasteur pipettes, and powder-free gloves and timely requesting these supplies.
• Ensures the updated SOPs and Job aids for sample collection are available and in use.
• Perform initial sample processing including plasma separation at required speed (1500 RCF) and temporarily store the samples at 2-8 0C before referring samples to the testing laboratory.
• Make sure all samples to be tested at the facility (CD4, Sputum, CrAg, Creatinine, and EID) are tested and results relayed to spokes.
• Responsible for completeness and validity of client information and data entry in the electronic sample referral and results feedback system (ESRS)
• Monitoring the functionality of all equipment related to HUB and sample referral and timely reporting.
• For the facilities with weekend clinics for paediatrics, the Hub focal will be responsible for making sure samples are collected from children on the weekend days and stored as per SOP.
• Timely sharing of information for the either rejected samples or failed hence need recollection.
• Calling the respective facilities whenever there are critical results.
• Expedite transportation of results received from testing laboratories to its spokes as immediately as possible to make sure no backlog of results at hubs.
• Prepare and submit regular reports of sample referral functions to relevant authorities. Reprinting of results failed to reach the facilities and making follow-up once released.
• Making follow-up on EQA testing and performance.
• Ensure compliance with quality assurance standards based on recommendations from the Section Supervisor and Laboratory Manager.
• Assist in the preparation and delivery of proficiency testing for EQA and assist the section head institute in the departmental audit.
• Follow written Standard Operating Procedures for every aspect of the testing process’s preanalytic, analytic, and post-analytic phases in a laboratory.
• Preparing summary reports of the specific Hub and their Spoke at the end of every week and month.
• Carry out other duties as assigned by the supervisors.

Qualifications:
• Diploma in Medical Laboratory Sciences and must be registered with the relevant professional body in Tanzania.
• Laboratory quality management training is an added advantage.
• Minimum of two years’ experience of working in HIV-related test laboratory settings.
• Ability to work both individually and as part of a team with minimal supervision.
• A good understanding of data collection, processing, and analysis is highly preferred.
• Knowledge of computer science in MS Excel, word, and PPT.
• Ability to communicate fluently in both English and Kiswahili.
• Willingness to stay at the working station 100%
• A good understanding of data collection, processing, and analysis is highly preferred.
• Knowledge of computer science in MS Excel, word, and PPT
• Ability to interact professionally.

Key personal competences:
• Self-motivated and able to demonstrate high initiative.
• Committed
• A team player
• Good interpersonal skills

Please send applications to conf@mbeya.go.tz.

All applications should have a cover letter, curriculum vitae (CV) and copies of academic certificates. Please write your full name and the position you are applying for on the email subject.

Also, please make sure you fill in the form on the link below for your application to be considered: https://forms.gle/rkQkUfFq9DU2mUhr9 

Successful candidates will be required to bring their original certificates during interviews.

GENERAL APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
• “Testimonials”, “Provisional Results” “Statement of Results” will not be considered.
• Applicants who are retired or have been terminated from the public service should not apply.
• Applicants who studied outside of Tanzania should bring the confirmation of their qualifications from the authorized body.
• Legal actions will be taken against all applicants who will submit forged/falsified information/documents.