OVERALL RESPONSIBILITIES

The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Technical Officer is responsible for supporting the provision of molecular testing services in support of the Anti-Retroviral Treatment (ART) program in the given province. She/He will ensure the smooth implementation of viral load (VL) testing early infant diagnosis (EID), Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and HIV drug resistance testing (DRT). The Technical Officer will be responsible for implementing quality management systems (QMS) and will further ensure all internal quality control practices are adhered to. He/she will also ensure all external quality assurance testing are performed and reported on time to the assessing agency. She/He will provide technical assistance / supportive supervision and mentorship on specimen collection, packaging, storage and transportation when required to do so.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Perform molecular testing techniques in support of the ART Program (VL, EID, HPV & DRT).

2. Report all results using nationally approved laboratory information systems (DISA/e_Labs) and any other approved system.

3. Ensure consistent availability of reagents and consumables to prevent the disruption of testing services. Use of e_LMIS will be critical.

4. Develop and nurture relationships with other PCR Laboratories in the region to establish referral services.

5. Participate in the testing of external quality control materials and submission of results to the external assessing agency.

6. Implement quality management systems using ISO 15189 as underlying principles.

7. Provide technical support and mentorship to facilities served especially in but not restricted to specimen collection, packaging, storage, transportation and results management.

8. Keep an updated equipment database/spreadsheet useful for tracking functionality, downtime and repairs.

9. Maintain regular communications with vendors, provincial biomedical scientists and provincial medical equipment officers.

10. Regularly prepare written reports summarising monthly and quarterly activities.

11. Any other duties as assigned by Program Management.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Diploma in Biomedical Sciences with five (5) years’ relevant working experience.

2. Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences with three (3) relevant years working experience.

3. Able to work independently with minimum supervision,

4. Good interpersonal skills and PR.

5. Computer literate.

6. Registered with the Health Professions Council of Zambia.

7. Member of the Biomedical Society of Zambia.

8. Able to work in a team.