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Job Title: Laboratory Program Officer (National Laboratory-based surveillance Specialist)

Location: ABUJA

Duration: 20 MONTHS

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Laboratory Program Officer to serve as the National Laboratory-based Surveillance Specialist for our Global Fund RSSH Laboratory Systems Grant project. The successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating activities related to strengthening laboratory-based surveillance systems, ensuring the timely and accurate detection and response to public health threats.

Key Responsibilities

1. Collaborate with stakeholders to develop and implement strategic plans for strengthening laboratory-based surveillance systems for monitoring ATM, COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.
2. Supports the NCDC to strengthen laboratory-based surveillance systems, including the development and implementation of standard operating procedures, protocols, and guidelines.
3. Develop and implement quality assurance and quality control measures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of surveillance data generated by laboratory systems.
4. Foster collaboration and coordination with relevant stakeholders, including public health agencies, healthcare facilities, research institutions, and international partners, to promote information sharing and facilitate a coordinated response to public health threats.
5. Oversee the collection, analysis, interpretation, and dissemination of surveillance data, ensuring compliance with national and international standards for data management and reporting.
6. Support the implementation of monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track progress, identify challenges, and measure the impact of interventions aimed at strengthening laboratory-based surveillance systems.
7. Provide technical assistance and training to laboratory staff and stakeholders to enhance their capacity in surveillance methods, data collection, analysis, and reporting.
8. Prepare timely and accurate reports on surveillance activities, progress, and achievements for submission to project stakeholders, including the Global Fund and other funding agencies.
9. Carry out additional duties as may be assigned by the MLSD.

Qualification and Experience

1. A Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science
2. Master’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, or a related field is an added advantage.
3. At least 5 years of experience working in laboratory-based surveillance, public health, or a related field.
4. Demonstrated experience in planning, implementing, and evaluating public health programs, preferably in the context of infectious disease surveillance.
5. Strong analytical skills and proficiency in data management and analysis software.

6. Interact with diplomacy and tact and follow-up on requests with team members in a timely and efficient manner.

1. Excellent written, oral and interpersonal communication skills with ability to work as a team member.

8. Ability to plan and prioritize own work under tight deadlines, as well as to work on own initiative and as a member of a team.
9. Strong skills in using word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software (Microsoft Office applications preferred).