Job Description

PIH currently has implementation programs in Haiti, Rwanda, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Peru, Mexico, Russia, Sierra Leone and Navajo Nation. Through our partnership with Harvard Medical School and the Brigham and Women’s Hospital, we support a wide range of programs in dozens of other countries around the world. 

Our Work In Sierra Leone:

Partners In Health (PIH) began supporting the government of Sierra Leone in response to the Ebola epidemic in October 2014. Recognizing the large need for continued investments in the health system after Ebola, PIH is committed to long-term health system strengthening in support of the Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MOHS), guided by the same principles as our emergency response and our work around the world: public sector accompaniment, integrated and comprehensive services, social justice, nimbleness and flexibility, partnership, community ownership, and evidence-based interventions. In the aftermath of the epidemic, PIH is committed to supporting the delivery of comprehensive health services in Sierra Leone, from the community level to the health center and to referral hospitals.

Project Description

The Quality Essential Health Services and Systems Support Project (QEHSSSP) aims to increase utilization and improve quality of maternal and child health services in five districts across Sierra Leone (Bonthe, Falaba, Kailahun, Tonkolili and Western Area Rural). It is placed under the leadership of the Ministry of Health and Sanitation and will be implemented together with Partners In Health under the financial support of the World Bank for a period of five years (2022-2027).

The Biomedical technician will play a critical role in ensuring the reliability, safety, and functionality of medical devices, assisting in the improvement of patient care and healthcare outcomes. The ideal candidate should possess a strong technical background, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for advancing healthcare through engineering. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in biomedical engineering, excellent leadership skills, and a proven track record.

The Biomedical technician will be based in Jojoima in Kailahun District, travelling and provide support to facilities supported by QEHSSSP as needed. 

1. Equipment Maintenance and Repair:

• Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and repairs on a variety of medical equipment and devices to ensure optimal performance and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot technical issues, collaborating with manufacturers and vendors as needed to facilitate timely repairs.
• Daily operation and monitoring of medical gas systems (med-gas Plants, cylinder manifold, etc.) while providing basic guidance and on-the-job training for clinicians in routine safe use maintenance tasks

2. New Equipment Installation and Testing:

• Assist in the installation and setup of new medical equipment, ensuring proper functionality, integration, and alignment with operational requirements.
• Conduct testing and quality assurance procedures to validate the performance and safety of newly installed equipment.

3. Equipment Documentation:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of equipment maintenance, service history, repairs, and modifications.
• Generate technical documentation, including manuals and reports, to support regulatory compliance and knowledge sharing.

4. Continuous Improvement:

• Identify opportunities for equipment performance enhancement, process optimization, and workflow improvements, and collaborate with the team to implement solutions.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in biomedical engineering and recommend technology upgrades when appropriate.

5. Training and Support:

• Provide training to medical staff on the proper use, handling, and maintenance of medical equipment, ensuring safe and effective utilization.
• Should arrange periodically visit at the Health centers in order to be pro-active to the problems before they become emergencies.
• Offer technical support and guidance to clinical personnel in resolving equipment-related issues.
• Act as key user and implementer of PIH’s new computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) to efficiently track, triage, and document corrective and preventative maintenance for biomedical equipment.

6. Regulatory Compliance:

• Stay informed about relevant regulations, standards, and guidelines (e.g., FDA, ISO, AAMI) to ensure equipment and processes adhere to industry requirements.
• Participate in audits and inspections to demonstrate compliance and maintain necessary documentation.

7. Collaboration and Communication:

• Collaborate with biomedical team at the Ministry of Health and Sanitation to ensure alignment in biomedical technology related policies and protocols. 
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including clinicians, IT professionals, and vendors, to integrate biomedical systems seamlessly into the healthcare environment.
• Communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders, providing updates on equipment status and project progress.

• University Degree in Biomedical Technology or a related field(optional)
• Must have a Technicians diploma in Biomedical/ medical technology /Electronic and Electrical Engineering/Technology (EEET).
• Appropriate training Certification in the repair of specialized equipment and systems from service provider /manufacturer is a plus
• Interpreting schematic diagrams to perform effective repair and maintenance on basic biomedical equipment
• A minimum of three years’ experience as a biomedical technician.

Preferred:

• Strong knowledge of the most common medical equipment and devices used at the primary health care level and their operating principles.
• Familiarity with regulatory standards and guidelines applicable to medical devices.
• Proficiency in diagnostic tools, test equipment, and troubleshooting techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to technical challenges.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, for interactions with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in the use of computers, with a working knowledge of the Microsoft office suite (Excel, Word document, PowerPoint) is a plus