SCOPE OF POSITION:
The Deputy Head of Department - Microbiology ensures the safe & efficient operation of the Microbiology Department and also assists in training, supervising and evaluating the performance of all department staff.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assist with organizing workflow and ensuring that employees understand their duties or delegated tasks
- Assist with monitoring employee productivity and providing constructive feedback and coaching
- Assist with receiving and resolving complaints
- Assist with maintaining time and attendance records of the Team
- Assist with the preparation and submission of performance reports
- Ensure adherence to legal and company policies and procedures and undertake disciplinary actions if the need arises
- Monitoring documents in the department such as quality documents and monthly Microbiology sheets
- Assist with the supervision of the department to ensure that testing processes are managed with the highest quality and efficiency
- Assist and provide guidance to staff with quality control procedures and documentation to support compliance with ISO 15189 standards
- Implements the use of Protocols for performance of tests and evaluation of results. Monitors conformity of protocols
- Perform tests requiring advance knowledge and skills.
- Participates in the training of Interns, Staff on rotation and New Staff Members
- Assists in reviewing daily work assignments, check reports with Technical Manager/designate, validates reports when applicable.
- Assists in the maintenance of Health and Safety Standards in the assigned Department in consultation with the Safety Officer.
- Ensures contact with the laboratory client base such as doctors to resolve problems and offer advice
- Provides in-depth knowledge of Microbiology
- Assists with the Preparation of Monthly and Annual reports for the Department
- Maintenance of quality control procedures and liaise with Quality Manager/designate to provide testing data
- Assists with the preparation of Standard Operating Procedure Manuals and updates them annually.
- Participates in local and overseas seminars, workshops and conferences.
- Ensures the technical accuracy and quality of laboratory results and final report generation
- Ensures the efficient and smooth operation of the department in the absence of the HOD
- Assists with the scheduling of work roster (assignment)
- Assists with the timely scheduling of weekend duties
- Assists with the maintenance of the department’s inventory
- Ensures that all instruments are functioning properly
- Follow-up on the implementation of the digitization project by ensuring the conversion of manual documents or processes to digital or automated workflow.
QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology plus 5 years relevant experience in Microbiology
- Registered Medical Technologist
- Proven experience in a Supervisory position/ role
- Must have working knowledge of laboratory procedures
- Strong organizational, interpersonal and problem-solving skills
- Dependable, strong work ethic, initiative and flexibility
- Experience in the preparation and conducting assessment for ISO15189 Accreditation
- Proficient with Laboratory Information System
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
- Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
- Ability to effectively work in a team environment
- Strong analytical, administrative and problem-solving skills
- Proficiency in the use of computer application software
- Demonstrates professional conduct and interpersonal communication skills with patients, laboratory personnel, the public and other Health care professionals.
- Skills in operating laboratory equipment and apparatus.
- Excellent leadership skills
- Flexibility and versatility to operate in a demanding environment
- High level of professionalism and confidentiality