LABORATORY TECHNICIAN
Position Title: Laboratory Technician
Duty Station: Nestcare Clinic, Blantyre, Malawi
Reports To: Medical Director
Type of Employment: Full-time
Number of positions: 2
Background: Nestcare is a private Maternal and Child Health (MCH) clinic located in Blantyre, Malawi. The clinic offers comprehensive MCH services including antenatal care, safe deliveries, postnatal care, child immunizations, family planning, and health education. The clinic aims to offer accurate, timely, and affordable diagnostic support as part of its commitment to comprehensive patient care, and thus the clinic seeks to employ a competent Laboratory Technician.
Purpose of the Position: To provide high-quality laboratory diagnostic services that support clinical decision-making, especially in areas related to maternal and child health. The Laboratory Technician is responsible for conducting laboratory tests, maintaining equipment, and ensuring adherence to national laboratory standards and biosafety practices.
Key Responsibilities
A. Diagnostic Services
Perform routine laboratory tests, including:
Hematology (e.g., full blood count, hemoglobin)
Serology (e.g., HIV testing, syphilis testing)
Microbiology (e.g., urine, stool, and vaginal swab analysis)
Malaria microscopy and rapid diagnostic tests
Pregnancy tests
Biochemistry: Hormonal assays, renal / liver function tests, blood glucose etc
Ensure timely and accurate reporting of results to clinicians.
Maintain quality control and repeat tests when necessary.
B. Equipment and Inventory Management
Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure proper calibration and functioning.
Monitor stock levels and request reagents, test kits, and supplies in a timely manner.
Ensure proper storage and disposal of reagents and biological waste.
C. Quality Assurance and Safety
Follow laboratory safety and infection prevention and control (IPC) guidelines.
Participate in internal and external quality control programs.
Maintain updated standard operating procedures (SOPs) and logbooks.
D. Record Keeping and Reporting
Maintain accurate patient laboratory records and registers.
Ensure confidentiality and security of all laboratory results and data.
Support the timely submission of laboratory reports to clinic management and relevant authorities.
E. Collaboration and Communication
Work closely with nurses, clinicians, and support staff to ensure integrated patient care.
Participate in clinical team meetings and engage in ongoing professional development activities.
Required Qualifications and Experience
Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology from a recognized institution.
Valid registration and license from the Medical Council of Malawi.
Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a clinical laboratory, preferably in an MCH setting.
Familiarity with Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) and Essential Diagnostics List (EDL).
Experience in the private health sector or small facility laboratories is an added advantage.
Key Competencies and Skills
Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
Good interpersonal and communication skills.
Fluent in English and Chichewa.
Basic computer literacy (Microsoft Office, EMR systems).
Working Conditions
The Clinic will offer 24-hour services, 7 days a week. The Laboratory Technician will be expected to work 40 hours a week on a rotational basis (Shift) to cover the operational hours.
Supervision and Performance Management
Subject to quarterly performance reviews, focused on accuracy, turnaround time, quality control, and teamwork.
Code of Conduct
Adhere to the ethical and professional standards set by the Medical Council of Malawi.
Maintain patient confidentiality and laboratory data integrity.
Uphold the clinic’s values of quality, safety, and respect for all clients.
