Assistant Technical Officer, Nutrition, IYCF

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. Established over 30 years ago, FHI 360 has a presence in more than 60 countries and employs thousands of staff worldwide. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, nutrition, and economic development, and has been actively responding to humanitarian crises, particularly in Northeast Nigeria for the past five years.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Technical Officer, Nutrition - IYCF will play a crucial role in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Northeast Nigeria, particularly focusing on Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies (IYCF-E). This position involves working closely with the Technical Officer Health and Nutrition to deliver quality IYCF services at both community and facility levels. The incumbent will be responsible for engaging with community members, training local staff, and ensuring the effective implementation of nutrition programs aimed at reducing malnutrition and food insecurity among Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and host communities. The role requires a proactive approach to community engagement and the ability to adapt to challenging working conditions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Technical Officer will lead and coordinate community IYCF support group activities, identify training needs, and build the technical capacity of IYCF Assistants and community nutrition mobilizers. Responsibilities include directing skilled IYCF support services, organizing food demonstration sessions, leading micronutrient supplementation efforts, and conducting focus group discussions to assess barriers to optimal IYCF uptake. The incumbent will also support the development of IYCF multimedia messages, ensure gender mainstreaming in nutrition, and collaborate with community leaders to raise awareness about IYCF activities. Additional duties involve taking inventory of nutrition supplies, supporting monitoring and evaluation efforts, and engaging in community dialogue to sensitize stakeholders about IYCF-E activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a BSc in Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Public Health, Nursing, or a closely related field, with at least 1-3 years of relevant experience. Alternatively, candidates with an MBBS degree and 1-2 years of experience are also encouraged to apply. Experience working with humanitarian organizations and extensive knowledge of IYCF in a humanitarian context are essential. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to maintain confidentiality and have proven experience working with IDPs or refugees. Familiarity with Nigerian law enforcement systems and NGOs is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Public Health, Nursing, or a related field is required. Candidates with a medical degree (MBBS) are also eligible if they have relevant experience. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in nutrition principles and public health practices, particularly in emergency settings.

Experience:
The position requires at least 1-3 years of experience in a relevant field, particularly in humanitarian settings. Candidates with experience in nutrition programs, especially those focused on IYCF, will be preferred. Experience working with vulnerable populations, including IDPs and refugees, is crucial for understanding the unique challenges faced by these communities.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, along with excellent spoken and written skills in local dialects. Proficiency in local languages will enhance communication with community members and facilitate effective program implementation.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Banki, Borno State, Nigeria, and may require the incumbent to stay at the Local Government Area (LGA). The role demands flexibility and adaptability due to challenging working conditions, including long distances to implementation sites. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding and providing a safe environment for all employees and beneficiaries, adhering to strict policies against abuse and exploitation. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and emphasizes professional development and work/life balance.