SBCC Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of achieving Zero Hunger. WFP is recognized for its efforts in providing food assistance and improving nutrition, and it has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its work in combating hunger worldwide. The organization values diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for positions within its ranks.

Job Overview:
The SBCC Associate will be instrumental in implementing Social and Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) activities aimed at enhancing nutrition, hygiene, and social protection practices in Timor-Leste. This role involves promoting healthy dietary habits, improving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and strengthening hygiene behaviors through community engagement, capacity building, interpersonal approaches, media campaigns, and policy advocacy. The Associate will work closely with various government agencies, UN partners, and civil society organizations to ensure that SBCC strategies are aligned with broader development goals and sectoral programs. The position requires a deep understanding of the local context and the ability to tailor interventions to meet the unique needs of the population, particularly vulnerable groups such as pregnant and breastfeeding women and children under five. The SBCC Associate will also be responsible for data collection and program evaluations to measure the effectiveness of interventions, ensuring continuous learning and improvement in community engagement strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• SBCC Programme Design, Adaptation & Implementation: Assist in the design, adaptation, and implementation of SBCC programmes in line with the project’s strategic plan. Support the development, pre-testing, and production of communication tools and job aids based on evidence-based theories and methodologies. Provide technical assistance in community sensitization and mobilization, focusing on behaviour change communication for the target population.
• Stakeholder Coordination & Technical Support: Coordinate with government agencies, UN partners, and local organizations on SBCC campaigns and technical activities. Assist in the planning and execution of joint SBCC initiatives, ensuring alignment with existing social protection, nutrition, and WASH programs. Support the supervision and monitoring of SBCC interventions, troubleshooting technical issues across food security, education, and nutrition sectors.
• Capacity Building & Training: Develop training materials and conduct training sessions to enhance the effectiveness of local partners and WFP staff in implementing demand-creation programs. Provide Training of Trainers (ToT) and community engagement skills to health workers, school staff, and community-based organizations to improve outreach efforts.
• Community Engagement & Event Coordination: Plan and coordinate special events, including World Food Day and World Nutrition Day, to amplify SBCC messaging. Facilitate community-led interventions, ensuring local actors actively participate in nutrition and hygiene promotion activities.
• Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting: Work with M&E staff to track and evaluate SBCC activities, ensuring they meet performance indicators. Document project results, including case studies and success stories, contributing to quarterly and annual reporting. Perform additional duties as assigned by the SBCC expert, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness in programme execution.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess a Bachelor’s degree in health, behavioral change, communications, social sciences, marketing, or development studies. A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in implementing SBCC programmes or advising on social and behavioral change interventions is required. Additional training in maternal and child health and nutrition is an advantage. Candidates should have strong monitoring and evaluation skills, including report writing and communication abilities. The ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multi-cultural team is essential, along with creative and strategic thinking skills. Proficiency in relevant computer software, particularly MS Office, is also necessary.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as health, behavioral change, communications, social sciences, marketing, or development studies. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of social and behavioral change in the context of nutrition and health.

Experience:
A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience is required for this position, specifically in implementing SBCC programmes or advising on social and behavioral change interventions. Experience in monitoring and evaluation of programs, along with strong report writing and communication skills, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work independently and as part of a multi-cultural team, showcasing creativity and strategic thinking in their approach to program implementation.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Tetum is mandatory for this position, with Portuguese being an added advantage. Proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication with stakeholders and the target population.

Additional Notes:
This position is specifically for Timorese nationals only. The role is full-time, and the deadline for applications is set for 6 August 2025 at 23:59 GMT+09:0

• WFP offers an attractive compensation package and is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization also emphasizes the importance of reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.