Infirmary Laboratory Technician at Kiira Motors Corporation, Jinja, Uganda

The Infirmary Laboratory Technician is a critical health and safety professional responsible for conducting routine and specialized diagnostic, environmental, and occupational health tests to support comprehensive workplace safety and health management at Kiira Motors Corporation. This pivotal role ensures the safe and precise collection, handling, analysis, and reporting of biological and environmental samples, with an unwavering focus on accuracy, confidentiality, and strict compliance with all safety standards. The Laboratory Technician collaborates closely with the Nursing and Occupational Safety teams, as well as external laboratories, to proactively detect risks, prevent health issues, and champion a safe and healthy working environment for all employees at the Kiira Vehicle Plant.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Functional Responsibilities: Precision Testing & Laboratory Operations

The Infirmary Laboratory Technician performs accurate diagnostic and environmental testing, ensuring the integrity and efficiency of laboratory operations.

1.1. Sample Collection & Testing Excellence

Collect biological samples (e.g., blood, urine, saliva) from employees for medical screening, pre-employment assessments, or exposure monitoring with utmost care and adherence to aseptic techniques.
Collect environmental samples (e.g., air, water, surface swabs) from designated workplace locations for contamination testing, ensuring representative sampling.
Conduct a range of routine diagnostic tests for infections, toxic exposure, chronic health monitoring, and general wellness panels.
Perform meticulous calibrations and rigorous quality control procedures for all laboratory equipment and tests to ensure unparalleled accuracy and reliability of results.

1.2. Laboratory Equipment Management & Safety Protocols

Maintain, operate, and calibrate all laboratory instruments and equipment strictly in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and established SOPs.
Ensure the proper and safe disposal of all biological and chemical waste, in full compliance with national health, safety, and environmental protocols.
Rigorously implement biosafety and chemical safety procedures while handling all samples, reagents, and hazardous materials.
Maintain impeccable laboratory cleanliness, organize inventory efficiently, and ensure immediate availability of emergency response materials (e.g., spill kits, fire extinguishers).

1.3. Occupational Health Surveillance Support

Provide essential laboratory support for health screening programs conducted by medical staff, particularly for employees in high-risk departments (e.g., those with chemical, noise, or dust exposure).
Analyze and report test results promptly and accurately to support early diagnosis, workplace exposure tracking, and health trend analysis.
Alert medical or safety officers immediately of any abnormal or critical findings or environmental hazards requiring urgent attention.

1.4. Records Management & Reporting Accuracy

Maintain accurate, detailed, and strictly confidential records of all tests performed, results obtained, and quality control activities.
Prepare periodic laboratory reports, logs, and charts for internal analysis, compliance reporting, and trend identification.
Coordinate seamless sample transfer and maintain strict chain-of-custody protocols when sending specimens to external laboratories for advanced testing.

1.5. Compliance & Policy Implementation

Ensure all laboratory activities consistently conform to national health and safety standards, relevant ISO protocols, and internal KMC policies.
Actively contribute to the development and review of workplace hygiene standards, laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and safety guidelines.
Participate diligently in internal and external audits and inspections conducted by regulatory or quality assurance bodies.

2. Social Responsibilities: Collaboration & Health Advocacy

The Infirmary Laboratory Technician fosters a collaborative environment, acting as a key advocate for employee health and safety through accurate data and proactive engagement.

2.1. Professional Collaboration

Work closely and cooperatively with the Assistant Nursing Officer, Occupational Safety Officer, and Human Resources in managing comprehensive workplace health data and initiatives.
Coordinate effectively with external laboratories and diagnostic centers for advanced testing, ensuring timely results validation and seamless information exchange.
Provide timely and accurate laboratory results to support investigations into workplace incidents or health-related complaints.

2.2. Employee Interaction & Guidance

Guide employees with patience and clarity during sample collection procedures, ensuring their comfort, privacy, and safety throughout the process.
Communicate test procedures and expectations respectfully and in an easily understandable manner.

2.3. Health and Safety Culture Contribution

Actively assist in hazard identification and contribute to control recommendations based on laboratory findings and environmental monitoring.
Participate enthusiastically in safety drills, toolbox talks, and awareness events focused on occupational health risks and preventive measures.

3. Emotional Responsibilities: Integrity, Composure & Empathy

The role demands unwavering professional ethics, composure under pressure, and genuine empathy to handle sensitive health information and support employees.

3.1. Unwavering Professional Ethics & Confidentiality

Maintain the strictest confidentiality of all employee medical and laboratory records, adhering to data privacy regulations and ethical principles.
Uphold absolute integrity and neutrality in all aspects of sample handling, testing, and result reporting, ensuring unbiased and reliable data.

3.2. Calmness & Precision Under Pressure

Demonstrate exceptional accuracy and composure even in situations of urgency, high-volume testing, or large-scale health screening initiatives.
Exhibit unwavering commitment to scientific objectivity and precision, even in fast-paced or high-stakes environments.

3.3. Empathy & Patience in Care

Show genuine patience and understanding when assisting employees who may experience discomfort or anxiety during testing procedures.
Provide reassurance and professional support during health monitoring campaigns, fostering a trusting environment.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

Education Background

Minimum of a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology or Laboratory Science from a recognized institution.
Membership to a professional body: Must be registered and hold a valid practicing license from the Allied Health Professionals Council (AHPC) of Uganda.
Professional Registration & License: Mandatory: Must be registered and hold a valid practicing license from the Allied Health Professionals Council (AHPC) of Uganda.

Experience

At least two (2) years of relevant work experience in a clinical or occupational health laboratory setting.
Experience specifically in workplace environmental testing or industrial hygiene monitoring is a significant advantage.
Proven experience in laboratory inventory management and equipment maintenance.

Professional Certifications

Infection Prevention and Control (IPC).
Occupational Health and Safety (OHS).
Laboratory Quality Management Systems (LQMS).
Basic Life Support (BLS) / First Aid.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCES

1. Expert Laboratory Skills: Highly skilled in diagnostic and screening procedures using a wide range of standard laboratory equipment and techniques.
2. Hazard Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of chemical, biological, and occupational health hazards common in industrial settings.
3. Equipment Management: Proven ability to manage laboratory inventory, perform routine equipment maintenance, and execute precise instrument calibrations.
4. Data Integrity & Confidentiality: Strong understanding and strict adherence to biosafety protocols and data confidentiality requirements.
5. Digital Proficiency: Proficiency in laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and standard office software (e.g., MS Office Suite) for digital data management and reporting.
6. Effective Communication: Clear and concise communication skills, both verbal and written, for accurate reporting and effective interaction with employees and medical staff.
7. Analytical & Problem-Solving: Strong attention to detail, analytical abilities, and diagnostic skills to identify issues and ensure accurate test results.