Mini-Lab Technician (Microbiology Focus) – Maiduguri, Nigeria at Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) Belgium - MY NGO JOBS

In the fight against infectious diseases, the laboratory is the frontline of diagnostic precision. In humanitarian settings like Borno State, identifying the exact pathogen causing an illness is the difference between an ineffective treatment and a life-saving cure. By operating our specialized “Mini-Lab,” you provide clinicians with the evidence-based data they need to combat antimicrobial resistance and ensure that every patient receives the most accurate medical intervention possible.

Job Summary

The Mini-Lab Technician is responsible for executing high-standard clinical laboratory operations with a specialized focus on microbiology and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. You will manage the entire testing lifecycle—from sample reception to the interpretation of results—ensuring that all data is meticulously logged into the Mini-LIMS system. Your technical expertise will directly support clinicians in selecting the most effective treatments for patients in distress.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Testing & Microbiology

End-to-End Testing: Proficiently deliver the full testing process for various sample types, including pre-testing (reception/recording), testing (identification of microorganisms), and post-testing (interpretation).
Pathogen Identification: Execute clinical examinations and tests following strict Mini-Lab protocols, specifically focusing on identifying bacterial strains and performing susceptibility testing.
Strain Management: Maintain and archive bacterial strains, coordinating their transfer to reference laboratories when specialized secondary analysis is required.
Data Integrity: Utilize the Mini-LIMS computer system to ensure every step of the laboratory process is documented, tracked, and validated.

Quality Control & Maintenance

Environment Stewardship: Maintain a pristine workstation, adhering to biosafety and hygiene regulations to prevent cross-contamination and ensure staff safety.
Troubleshooting: Identify and report non-conformities in tests, equipment malfunctions, or general laboratory operations to management.
Quality Assurance: Lead quality control procedures, reporting results and implementing corrective actions immediately if discrepancies are detected.
Waste Management: Oversee the safe disposal of infectious waste generated by the lab in accordance with established medical safety protocols.

Inventory & Strategic Support

Stock Oversight: Monitor Mini-Lab supplies and resources to prevent stockouts of critical reagents and materials.
Clinical Liaison: Participate in medical meetings to discuss laboratory findings and, when necessary, communicate validated results directly to clinicians to guide patient care.
Leadership Support: In the absence of the supervisor, assist with stock renewal orders and the resolution of technical breakdowns.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Academic Background: A specialized Diploma or Post-Graduate Diploma in Laboratory Technology is mandatory.
Professional Experience: A minimum of 1 year of experience as a Laboratory Technician is required.
Specialized Skillset: Proven experience in microbiology is highly desirable.
Language Skills: Full professional proficiency in English is essential; knowledge of local languages (e.g., Hausa or Kanuri) is a strong asset.
Digital Literacy: Essential proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel) and cloud-based tools (SharePoint/OneDrive).
Core Competencies: Strong commitment to MSF principles, teamwork, behavioral flexibility, and the ability to maintain accuracy under significant stress.

Why This Job is Important

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing global threat, especially in crisis zones. As a Mini-Lab Technician, you are the gatekeeper of effective antibiotic use. Your ability to correctly identify a bacterium and its resistance patterns means that patients aren’t just given “any” medicine—they are given the right medicine, preserving the efficacy of drugs for the entire community.

Benefits of Applying

Pioneering Technology: Work with the “Mini-Lab” kit—an innovative, mobile microbiology laboratory designed specifically for resource-limited settings.
Professional Impact: Join a world-renowned medical organization where your lab results directly change patient outcomes every day.
Inclusive Workforce: Join a team that values gender equality and encourages applications from all backgrounds.
Competitive Compensation: Receive a competitive salary and benefits package aligned with MSF’s national remuneration scale.

About the Organization

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent medical-humanitarian organization that provides aid to populations in distress, victims of disasters, and those affected by armed conflict. We operate without regard to race, religion, or political conviction, guided by the principles of medical ethics and neutrality. In Nigeria, our projects range from emergency nutrition to maternal health and specialized infectious disease response, all driven by a commitment to human dignity.

Position Details & Application

Location: Maiduguri, Borno State
Sector: Medical / Laboratory Science
Closing Date: 29th December, 2025

How to Apply

Qualified candidates should submit their application (including a motivation letter, updated resume, and copies of all relevant certificates/NYSC documentation) through the official link: APPLY NOW

Important Notice:

MSF is an equal opportunity employer; both men and women are strongly encouraged to apply.
Dual Employment is strictly prohibited and constitutes gross misconduct.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the recruitment process.

Tips for Applicants

Highlight Microbiology: If you have experience with “Culture and Sensitivity” (C&S) testing, make sure this is the most prominent part of your CV.
Focus on LIMS: Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) is a major plus—mention any software you’ve used for logging samples.
Biosafety Knowledge: Be prepared to discuss “Good Laboratory Practices” (GLP) and how you handle infectious waste during your interview.