Field Laboratory Manager

REPORTS TO: Senior Laboratory Advisor

Job purpose

The Field Laboratory Manager is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing laboratory operations and ensuring the successful execution of the KENPHIA II project. Reporting to the Senior Lab Advisor, this role involves managing satellite laboratories, coordinating samples management, supervising laboratory personnel, and maintaining quality assurance throughout the testing process. The position will also slightly report to the Operations and Logistics Director and therefore work in close collaboration with the supply chain team.

Duties and responsibilities

• Support the KENPHIA II team and the Senior Lab Advisor with the development and adaption of country-specific laboratory policies, SOPs and manual
• Oversee day-to-day laboratory operations, including specimen collection, receipt, processing, storage, and testing at KENPHIA II satellite labs
• Implement and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality control measures to ensure accurate and reliable testing results
• Directly or indirectly Supervise, coordinate, and schedule Regional Laboratory supervisors, Team Leaders and Satellite Laboratory Technician
• Ensure accurate specimen accessioning onto the Laboratory Data Management System (LDMS) and adherence to all KENPHIA II SOPs.
• Monitor quality systems throughout the testing process, including pre-examination, examination, and post-examination phases.
• Conduct regular reviews of quality control documentation and troubleshoot equipment or QC failures
• Coordinate timely shipment of blood samples from satellite laboratory to central laboratory while maintaining sample integrity.
• Monitor transportation logistics and ensure compliance with sample handling protocols
• Coordinate the management of laboratory supplies, equipment, and reagents, ensuring adequate stock levels and proper maintenance.
• Compile and analyze laboratory data, preparing reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.\
• Collaborate with other project teams, including field teams and data team to ensure alignment of laboratory activities with project goals and objectives.
• Participate in project planning meetings, providing input and expertise on laboratory-related matter.
• Ensure satellite laboratories adherence to Biosafety and Biosecurity procedures at set up by the Ministry of Health-Kenya.
• Support KENPHIA II training and project implementation activities

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science

Experience, Knowledge, and Skills

• Minimum four (4) years of related experience managing and working in field of Medical laboratory science more especially in human clinical trials.
• A skilled Medical Laboratory Scientist with knowledge of Good Clinical Laboratory Practices.
• Excellent skills in critical thinking and analysis.
• Excellent organizational and oral/written communication skills.
• Demonstrated and successful experience working in PHIAs particularly KENPHIA 1 is an advantage.
• Extensive knowledge and experience in design, implementation and management of laboratory services in HIV programs in resource constrained settings in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Flexible and with ability to multi-task.
• Must be able to work in a multidisciplinary team and expect multiple reporting chains.
• Proficiency in MS office suite.
• Fluent in both written and verbal communications in English and Swahili languages.
• Must be readily available for the duration of survey period.