Health and Nutrition Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established to address the interrelated challenges of health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, gender, youth, research, and technology, FHI 360 employs a diverse team of experts. The organization operates in more than 70 countries, including all 50 U.S. states and U.S. territories. FHI 360's Crisis Response team is actively engaged in addressing humanitarian emergencies, particularly in Northern Ethiopia, where they are implementing integrated health, nutrition, WASH, and Protection projects to support conflict-affected populations. The organization aims to expand its reach to the Tigray Region to meet the immediate needs of those affected by war, showcasing its commitment to humanitarian programming and local governmental collaboration.

Job Overview:
The Health and Nutrition Assistant will work under the supervision of the Health and Nutrition Officer, playing a crucial role in supporting the start-up nutrition activities within FHI 360's program implementation areas. This position is vital for ensuring that program implementation adheres to international technical standards and guidelines. The assistant will be responsible for conducting anthropometric assessments, maintaining accurate records, and linking clients to appropriate service points. Additionally, they will ensure a clean and environmentally friendly working space while adhering to infection prevention and control practices. The role includes providing nutrition services such as counseling, linking clients to treatment, and preparing necessary interventions for clients. The assistant will also be involved in data collection and coordination, supporting the admissions of severe malnutrition cases, and ensuring that all routine medications are administered appropriately. This position requires a proactive approach to community health and nutrition activities, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and collaboration with various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Health and Nutrition Assistant will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: working closely with the Health and Nutrition Officer to achieve program objectives; collecting and coordinating health and nutrition data for donors and stakeholders; supporting the admissions of severe malnutrition cases; preparing and feeding severely malnourished patients; managing follow-ups for malnutrition patients; counseling in-patients and their guardians on proper care and nutrition; conducting home visits for discharged patients; ensuring adherence to nutrition programs; supporting routine growth monitoring activities; maintaining the safety and cleanliness of food supplements; conducting supportive supervision of kitchen operations; preparing and submitting health and nutrition reports; maintaining records and data; imparting knowledge and skills to staff; preparing training materials; providing field-based assistance; collecting project data; updating inventory; and improving the quality of primary health care services. The assistant will also support programmatic administration, technical requirements, operational support, finance support, business development, and project management tasks, ensuring that all activities align with organizational goals and standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Health and Nutrition Assistant position should possess a strong set of qualifications, including a Bachelor’s degree related to health or nutrition or a related field. They should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in health and nutrition, preferably within a non-governmental organization (NGO). Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite is preferred, along with strong oral and written communication skills. The ability to articulate and communicate effectively with clients and staff is essential, as is a basic understanding of project design concepts and practices. Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to solve problems and recommend corrective actions as needed.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in health, nutrition, or a related field. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of health and nutrition programming and for effectively implementing the necessary interventions to support malnourished populations.

Experience:
The position typically requires at least 5 years of relevant experience in health and nutrition-related fields. Prior experience working in a non-governmental organization (NGO) is preferred, as it provides valuable insights into the operational and logistical challenges faced in humanitarian settings. Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite is also advantageous, as it is commonly used for data management and reporting.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the role requires clear communication with clients and staff. Additionally, proficiency in the host country language is highly desirable, as it facilitates better interaction with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may involve travel within the region to support various health and nutrition activities. FHI 360 is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action, ensuring that all qualified applicants are considered for employment without discrimination. The organization emphasizes safeguarding and preventing abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments and programs. All offers of employment will be subject to appropriate screening checks, including reference and criminal record checks. FHI 360 also provides a competitive benefits package and supports professional development, promoting a healthy work/life balance for its employees.