Technical Officer for HIV Testing Services

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization that focuses on improving lives through integrated, locally driven solutions in health, education, and economic development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and employs over 4,000 staff members worldwide. The organization is dedicated to addressing global challenges and enhancing the well-being of individuals and communities through evidence-based programs and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer for HIV testing services is a pivotal role within the EpiC-HIV project, which is funded by the U.S.A. Department of State. This position is responsible for providing expert technical support and guidance for various HIV case-finding modalities. The officer will develop and implement innovative strategies and technical testing approaches, including self-testing, index testing, and social and sexual network testing. The role involves designing, planning, and overseeing activities and interventions to ensure they are technically sound and aligned with the project's objectives. The Technical Officer will play a crucial role in expanding access to testing and improving case-finding rates in targeted areas, thereby contributing to the overall success of the EpiC-HIV initiative in the Philippines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Officer will provide technical support for the implementation of EpiC-HIV Philippines case-finding activities, which include monitoring community-based HIV testing and partner notification services, social and sexual network HIV testing, self-testing, and other forms of HIV testing to promote case finding. The officer will work closely with other EpiC sub-teams to strengthen capacity and provide ongoing support to assigned community-based implementing partners (IPs) who deliver these HIV testing services to key populations. Additionally, the officer will collaborate with the EpiC Strategic Information sub-team to support data analysis and the use of data for quality improvement of HIV case-finding and other services. The role also involves liaising with public and private-sector hospitals, clinics, and community-based organizations (CBOs) to ensure quality care in accessing testing services and linking them to community-based or facility-based services. The Technical Officer will assist in developing and disseminating tools, materials, reports, papers, and interventions for research projects, write and edit technical reports and documents, and conduct literature searches related to the assigned technical area. Furthermore, the officer will monitor and maintain protocols, instruments, data sets, manuals, training materials, and reports, and provide technical support to senior project staff. Other duties may be assigned as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a BS/BA or MS in public health, nursing, social science, or related fields, along with 3 to 5 years of relevant experience in international development programs and field experience. A strong knowledge of HIV, public health, international development, and social science research with a focus on HIV case-finding is essential. Proven skills in implementing HIV case-finding programs and sensitivity to cultural differences, as well as an understanding of the political and ethical issues surrounding public health among priority populations in the Philippines, are required. Strong written and verbal communication skills in both Tagalog and English, along with editing skills, are necessary. Experience working with civil society organizations to plan and implement clinical HIV programs is also required, as is the ability to establish strong working relationships with colleagues from diverse organizations and cultures. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to meet deadlines with attention to detail and quality, and be willing to travel within the country or region and internationally if needed.

Educational Background:
The position requires a minimum of a BS/BA or MS degree in public health, nursing, social science, or related fields. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of public health issues, particularly in relation to HIV testing and case-finding strategies.

Experience:
Candidates should have 3 to 5 years of relevant experience in international development programs, particularly in the field of public health and HIV case-finding. This experience should include practical fieldwork and a demonstrated ability to implement programs effectively in diverse settings.

Languages:
Proficiency in both Tagalog and English is mandatory for this position, as effective communication is essential for collaboration with local partners and stakeholders. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
The position will be based in Manila, Philippines, and will operate out of the FHI 360 Country office. Preference will be given to Filipino national candidates. This job posting summarizes the main duties of the role but does not prescribe or restrict the exact tasks that may be assigned. The organization emphasizes equal opportunity and affirmative action, ensuring that no discrimination occurs based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding against abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments and programs, requiring all personnel to adhere to a code of conduct.