We offer general medical services including family planning, under five clinic, STI clinic, HTS, ART, EID, ANC and other minor surgical services. It is an out-patient service center that runs from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm daily.
HIV DIAGNOSTIC ASSISTANT (HDA)
We are looking for an energetic HDA, willing to work even on Saturday half day and perform other minor duties assigned from time to time.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Lilongwe
- Category: Healthcare
- Closing Date: 2026-08-24
Key Responsibilities
- We are looking for an energetic HDA, willing to work even on Saturday half day and perform other minor duties assigned from time to time.
Requirements
- Should be a holder of MSCE, fluent in English and Chichewa
- Should have atleast 1-year experience
- History of working with an NGO that is HIV oriented will be an added advantage
- Should be computer literate atleast Microsoft word and Excel
- Should have an updated proficiency test and have a valid provider ID recognized by MoH
- Should be able to document in Scanform and send reports to QED in timely manner
How to Apply
All applications should reach us not later than 24th August 2026 at 12 mid night.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required to become an HIV Diagnostic Assistant in Malawi?
Applicants usually need a Diploma in Biomedical Sciences, Medical Laboratory Technology, or a related field from a Malawian institution accredited by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE). Registration with the Malawi Health Professions Council (MHPC) is mandatory, and completion of the Ministry of Health’s HIV testing and counselling (HTC) training is often required before deployment.
What does a typical day look like for an HIV Diagnostic Assistant working in a public health facility in Malawi?
Daily tasks include conducting rapid HIV tests, recording results accurately in DHIS2 or paper-based registers, counselling clients pre- and post-test, and referring positive cases to ART clinics. Assistants also maintain test kit inventories, ensure strict adherence to infection prevention protocols, and participate in weekly data reporting to district health offices.
How does workplace culture and professional expectations differ for this role in Malawi compared to other countries?
Respect for hierarchy and teamwork is central — assistants routinely report to lab supervisors or clinical officers and consult senior staff before escalating issues. Punctuality, confidentiality, and cultural sensitivity — especially around stigma and gender norms — are non-negotiable, and community engagement (e.g., outreach at antenatal clinics) is often expected beyond clinic hours.
What realistic career progression paths exist for an HIV Diagnostic Assistant in Malawi’s health system?
With experience and further study (e.g., Bachelor’s in Biomedical Sciences), one may advance to Senior Laboratory Technician or HIV Lab Coordinator roles within district hospitals or the National AIDS Commission. Some transition into training positions with NGOs like NASCO or the Ministry of Health’s HTC units after gaining 3+ years and completing mentorship certification.
What benefits can I expect as a full-time HIV Diagnostic Assistant employed by a government or NGO in Malawi?
Government-employed assistants receive statutory benefits including 30 days annual leave, maternity/paternity leave per the Employment Act, and enrolment in the National Pension Scheme (NPS). Most NGOs provide medical aid coverage and may offer allowances for transport or rural service, though specifics vary by employer and funding cycle.
How do I apply for an HIV Diagnostic Assistant position, and what do employers in Malawi value most in candidates?
Applications are usually submitted via the Ministry of Health’s recruitment portal, NGO websites (e.g., Jhpiego, ICAP), or physical submissions at district health offices — always including MHPC registration proof and HTC training certificates. Employers prioritise verified field experience in high-volume testing sites, demonstrated empathy in client interactions, and fluency in Chichewa and English for accurate counselling and documentation.