Regional Technical Referent at Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF)

Main Purpose

Reporting to Logistics Coordinator, the incumbent will be the primary focal point responsible for applying his/her expertise into field projects and providing strategical technical support to coordination and field teams in the countries in his/her region according to MSF policies, guidelines, and procedures in order to support the broader operational objectives of the mission.

Specific accountabilities include but are not limited to

As a position hosted in the Kenya Office Support Hub, the RTR for Biomed-Lab will be responsible for:

• Following the internal regulations and rules set by the Médecins Sans Frontières contracting entity
• Reporting on activities and movements while in Kenya to the Logistic Coordinator
• Advising the LogCo on decision-making related to biomedical concerns when required
• Validating service providers and product-supplier partnerships in Kenya and the wider region, particularly for medical devices and spare parts
• Implementing new policies, procedures, and deployment of equipment

Under the line management of the HQ Biomed & Cold Chain Advisor:

• Responsible for an area of expertise focused on biomedical support for laboratory equipment used within MSF-OCA
• Maintaining strong collaboration with HQ laboratory advisors for relevant countries and in-country laboratory focal points. This includes support during ad-hoc repairs of laboratory equipment requiring input from both users and biomedical technicians, as well as participation in planning stages for new laboratory activities within MSF projects and country programs
• Providing support for the installation, maintenance, and repair of standard laboratory equipment used by Médecins Sans Frontières
• Supporting non-standard laboratory equipment, including locally purchased equipment, depending on available time, technical capacity, and access to information, either through direct technical assistance or by coordinating with relevant suppliers
• Organizing and facilitating training sessions on behalf of MSF-OCA
• Providing third-line technical support to missions within his or her assigned portfolio
• Updating documentation, including the Logistics Expertise Website, and supporting and/or leading updates of MSF tools and systems

Requirements

Education

• Degree in Biomedical Engineering/Technology, Electronics, Electromechanics, or Medical Laboratory Technology

Experience

• Experience in international NGO field projects is required; experience with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an added advantage
• Significant professional experience (at least 2 years) in the relevant specialty area is required
• Strong knowledge of project management, team management, and training methodologies
• Knowledge and hands-on experience with laboratory equipment, especially maintenance and repair

Mobility

• Willingness to travel frequently (up to 50% of the time) to missions and headquarters locations

Languages

• Fluent in English and Kiswahili is essential

Technical Skills

• Ability to evaluate the proper maintenance of laboratory equipment
• Ability to establish and implement preventive maintenance procedures
• Ability to maintain standard laboratory equipment using external documentation and technical support where necessary
• Ability to assess the environmental and electrical safety of laboratory equipment

Competencies

• Strategic Vision
• Leadership
• People Management and Development
• Service Orientation
• Teamwork and Cooperation
• Commitment to Médecins Sans Frontières Principles
• Stress Management