Assistant Technical Officer, Primary Health Care

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization that aims to improve lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, and economic development, and is committed to providing a safe environment for all employees and beneficiaries.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Technical Officer (ATO) for Primary Health Care (PHC) will play a crucial role in delivering high-quality clinical care and support activities at the Local Government Area (LGA) level. This position primarily focuses on integrated medical services, where the ATO will be responsible for triaging, examining, diagnosing, and treating patients who require primary health care. The ATO will also prescribe appropriate treatments based on diagnoses and suggest necessary follow-ups. The role requires active participation in community health programs and outreach initiatives, ensuring that health education is provided to patients and that quality health care is delivered consistently. The ATO will contribute to the development of program strategies and work plans, while also building the capacity of Community Health Workers (CHWs) through organized training sessions. This position demands a proactive approach to staying informed about current programs and developments in clinical management and integrated medical services, ensuring that the ATO can effectively contribute to the improvement of existing programs and the design of new ones.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The ATO will be responsible for providing accurate diagnosis, treatment, and management of patients in a primary health care setting. Key duties include assessing patients and referring them for specialized health care when necessary, participating in the delivery of quality health care, adhering to relevant codes of conduct and ethics, and engaging in outreach and community health programs. The ATO will also provide health education to patients, contribute to the development of lessons learned from programs related to clinical and integrated medical services, and assist in strengthening reporting systems on program progress. Additionally, the ATO will work closely with the assigned team to ensure that activities are implemented according to standard operating procedures (SOPs), compile and submit periodic reports, and maintain infection prevention and control standards. Networking and coordination with relevant sectors, establishing relationships with local authorities and community stakeholders, and participating in nutrition cluster meetings are also essential responsibilities of this role.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an MB.BS, MD, or its equivalent, along with a minimum of 1-3 years of relevant experience in emergency and constrained settings. Experience working with international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) is highly desirable. A valid practicing license is mandatory, and familiarity with Nigerian public sector health systems, NGOs, and community-based organizations (CBOs) is preferred. Previous experience in humanitarian crises is also a significant advantage. The ATO should demonstrate knowledge of health and nutrition in humanitarian programs, clinical management, and training experience, as well as an understanding of the social, political, and ethical issues in the communities served.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a medical degree (MB.BS, MD) or its equivalent. Candidates must have completed their medical training and obtained a valid practicing license to operate within the healthcare system in Nigeria. Continuous professional development and training in relevant areas of clinical management and integrated health services are also encouraged.

Experience:
The position requires 1-3 years of relevant experience in a clinical setting, particularly in emergency and constrained environments. Experience with international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the Nigerian public health sector and previous work in humanitarian crises. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing clinical responsibilities and delivering quality health care in challenging settings.

Languages:
Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Hausa and Fulani languages is considered an added advantage, as it will facilitate communication with local communities and enhance the effectiveness of health education and outreach efforts.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Gembu and Baissa, Taraba State, Nigeria. The role may require travel across Local Government Areas (LGAs) and involves a commitment to maintaining high standards of safeguarding and ethical conduct. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a safe environment for all employees and beneficiaries. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and supports professional development, ensuring a healthy work/life balance for its workforce.