Job Description:

POSITION OBJECTIVE

The Field Laboratory Technician will be responsible for collecting and testing tongue swab specimens as part of a research study evaluating a new rapid diagnostic tool for tuberculosis (TB). The technician will be stationed with the field team and must ensure proper specimen collection, handling, testing, documentation, and adherence to the study protocol and biosafety standards.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Participate in community outreach and screening activities under the supervision of the Study Coordinator.
• Collect tongue swab specimens from enrolled participants according to the approved study protocol and ethical guidelines.
• Perform on-site TB testing using the designated rapid diagnostic device.
• Calibrate and operate the testing equipment according to manufacturer and study SOPs.
• Ensure proper documentation of each sample and result using field registers and/or electronic data collection tools.
• Maintain the cold chain and integrity of any additional specimens that require transport to a central lab.
• Follow all biosafety and infection control protocols during field activities.
• Submit daily testing and activity reports to the study coordinator and central research team.
• Participate in training, mock drills, and internal quality control activities.
• Maintain inventory of field-testing supplies and report needs in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with community health workers, field mobilizers, and other research team members.
• Perform any other study-related tasks assigned by the Study Coordinator or Principal Investigator.

EDUCATIONAL & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) from a recognized institution.
• Preferably a Bachelor's degree in Laboratory Sciences, Microbiology, or a related field.
• At least 1 year of hands-on experience in sample collection and laboratory testing, preferably in TB or infectious disease diagnostics.
• Prior experience with point-of-care or rapid diagnostic tools is an advantage.

REQUIRED TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Familiarity with sample collection procedures, particularly non-invasive specimens such as oral or tongue swabs.
• Ability to operate and troubleshoot portable diagnostic equipment (e.g., rapid molecular TB tests).
• Understanding of basic biosafety and infection prevention protocols.
• Quality Control: Understanding of quality assurance and control in laboratory testing and safety protocols.
• Data Management: Ability to record, interpret, and report results accurately.
• Infection Control: Knowledge of TB-specific infection control practices in laboratory settings.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Willingness to work in community or field settings, including rural or hard-to-reach areas.
• Good communication and coordination skills to work with field teams and participants.
• Physically fit and able to follow mobile testing schedules.
• Willingness to undergo hands-on training in the use of new diagnostic platforms and follow study protocols strictly.
• Basic computer/data entry skills for recording and reporting results.