State Lead, Lead Exposure

Job Posting Organization:
WJCF (Welfare and Justice for Children Foundation) is an Indian non-profit organization established in 2007, dedicated to saving lives by reducing the burden of disease and strengthening government-owned, high-quality health systems. The organization operates across India, supporting various health programs in 19 states and union territories. WJCF combines data-driven approaches with public health expertise and strong government partnerships to design, implement, and scale health solutions. Their mission is to improve health outcomes for the people of India by collaborating with government agencies and international partners, including the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI). WJCF's work encompasses a wide range of health issues, including infectious diseases, maternal and child health, and environmental health, among others. The organization prides itself on its talented and diverse team, which brings extensive experience in managing public health programs.

Job Overview:
The State Lead, Lead Exposure position at WJCF is a critical role aimed at addressing the significant public health challenge of lead poisoning in India. The incumbent will be responsible for leading WJCF's engagement with state government stakeholders, building relationships, and establishing governance mechanisms for the National Biomonitoring Programme for Chemical Toxicants (NBPCT). This role requires a deep understanding of the state's health system, pollution control, and environmental regulations. The State Lead will work collaboratively with various departments to convert a nascent national program into a functioning state response, ensuring alignment on program priorities and work plans. The position demands exceptional stakeholder management skills, the ability to navigate complex multi-stakeholder environments, and a commitment to excellence in public health.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The State Lead will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Government Engagement and State Governance: Leading WJCF's engagement with state government stakeholders, securing alignment on program priorities, and building relationships with senior officials across various departments.
• Programme Management: Overseeing day-to-day program implementation, managing and mentoring the state team, maintaining workplan trackers, and preparing high-quality reports for government counterparts and donors.
• Technical Products and Capacity Building: Adapting national protocols to the state context, developing state-specific training materials, and overseeing capacity-building initiatives for health professionals.
• Surveillance and Data Systems: Mapping state laboratory and treatment capacity, integrating chemical toxicant surveillance data into health information systems, and designing analytical products to support decision-making.
• District-level Engagement: Securing ownership from district administration, leveraging existing platforms to drive program activities, and building relationships with district counterparts to align health and environmental mandates.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in public health, environmental health, public policy, health management, or a related field, along with a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience in a results-oriented environment. They should have demonstrated experience working with state government stakeholders and familiarity with the Indian public health system, including NHM structures and budgeting cycles. Proven experience in managing multi-stakeholder coordination and strong analytical capabilities are essential. Candidates should also have advanced proficiency in project management tools and the ability to manage and mentor a team effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a Bachelor's or Master's degree in relevant fields such as public health, environmental health, public policy, health management, or development studies. The degree should be complemented by substantial work experience in public health or related sectors, emphasizing the importance of both formal education and practical experience in the field.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 7 years of relevant work experience, particularly in roles that involve stakeholder engagement, program management, and public health initiatives. Experience working with government programs and familiarity with the Indian public health landscape are highly preferred. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of managing complex projects and coordinating with multiple stakeholders effectively.

Languages:
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English and Hindi are mandatory for this position. Preference will be given to candidates who are also proficient in local languages or dialects, as this will enhance communication and engagement with diverse communities across the state.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position based in Mohali, Punjab, with travel required to program districts within the state and occasionally to New Delhi. The role involves significant engagement with government stakeholders and requires the ability to work independently in a dynamic environment. The last date to apply for this position is 28 October 2026.