Quality Assurance Officer at DNALC Nigeria

Purpose:

Under nominal direction, this position is responsible for oversight and management of quality assurance, resources, personnel, records management, and safety programs to promote internal compliance, ensure accreditation and commitment to valid and reliable forensic and laboratory services.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:

• Maintains laboratory safety and cleanliness; monitors equipment and supply levels; initiates purchase orders as appropriate
• Audits unit operations and training; identifies opportunities for improvement. 
• Ensures ongoing accreditation to meet International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards, forensic testing requirements, and state statutes.
• Manages assigned programs and establishes goals and objectives to achieve conformance through continuous improvement.
• Reviews, recommends, and revises policies and procedures to assure compliance with applicable requirements.
• Ensures equipment is calibrated to established levels of accuracy; maintains detailed records and documentation. 
• Coordinates program activities, evaluates key performance areas, and facilitates the implementation of best practices.
• Acts as liaison between the Department and external bodies on matters related to accreditation and other regulatory requirements as well as information requests.
• Manages the internal audit and external assessment processes required by the Department’s accrediting body.
• Evaluates laboratory programs and makes recommendations regarding analytical procedures, equipment, software, and records management
• Monitors the outcomes of audits, corrective actions, proficiency testing, and testimony for trends and implements preventive actions for mitigating organizational risk
• Oversees the management of the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and system-wide software solutions.
• Monitors and maintains training and development program for employees. Consults with Unit Supervisors regarding requirements for continued qualification of examiners; provides guidance and recommendations to employees; and reviews and approves changes in laboratory procedures.
• Ensures that new methods and protocols are properly developed, tested and validated for use on casework.
• Reviews standard operating procedures, quality manuals, and training manuals and publishes any changes to manuals and procedures as needed. 
• Under management direction, investigate complaints, problems, incidents, and corrective/preventative action regarding the quality system and prepares non-conformance documentation as required. 
• Testifies as expert witness to explain laboratory policies, procedures and accreditation requirements, as needed and approved by management.
• Performs other duties as assigned by management.