National HIV Laboratory Coordinator

JOB DESCRIPTION

The following post of National HIV Laboratory Coordinator has arisen in the Ministry of Health and Child Care. Reports to: Director Laboratory Services

Summary of key functions

Responsible and accountable for the administrative and technical operations of all HIV laboratory services in the country. Ensuring the delivery of high-quality diagnostic services for HIV including EQA for HIV testing, EID testing, Viral load and CD4 count.

Key Responsibilities and Accountability

• Laboratory system strengthening with focus on HIV in laboratories
• Reviews and spearheads implementation of the Viral Load scale-up plan
• Manages and participates in development and administration of the HIV laboratory budget
• Offers sound national and international advice on policy and trends in HIV VL, EID, CD4testing.
• Contributes to national strategic planning for the national HIV program
• Oversees EQA for all machines, EID, Viral load and Cd4
• Ensures the development of a quarterly HIV laboratory performance report, presents data on essential performance indicators for HIV lab indicators
• Ensures availability and use of diagnostic algorithms, guidelines, and policies in line with the most recent WHO recommendations and policy guidance for HIV related diagnostic/screening
• Ensures and promotes inter-departmental collaboration and effective contribution to regional and international organizations
• Plans and implements supportive HIV related laboratory programmatic activities to national levels
• Ensures HIV related laboratory policy implementation across the tiered levels

Qualifications, Experience and Skills

• HBMLS or Equivalent from a reputable University
• Post-graduate training in Public Health, Clinical Epidemiology or Microbiology is an added advantage
• At least 2 years post graduate experience in HIV related tests including Viral load, EID and CD4
• Recognized training in HIV diagnostic tests
• Ability to coordinate health services at national, provincial and district levels
• Proven computer competence with spreadsheet, wordprocessing, presentation and database applications