Assistant Technical Officer, Nutrition, IYCF

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization that has been working in Nigeria for over 30 years, focusing on improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities. The organization has been actively responding to the humanitarian crisis in Northeast Nigeria for the past five years, providing essential services to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and host communities. FHI 360 operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing global health challenges and promoting sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Technical Officer, Nutrition - IYCF will play a crucial role in addressing the growing humanitarian crisis in Northeast Nigeria, particularly focusing on Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies (IYCF-E). This position involves providing quality IYCF services at both community and facility levels, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the necessary nutritional support. The incumbent will work closely with the Technical Officer for Health and Nutrition and collaborate with various team members to deliver optimal feeding practices. The role requires a proactive approach to engage with communities, assess their needs, and implement effective nutrition interventions that align with FHI 360's mission to improve health outcomes in crisis-affected areas.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Technical Officer will lead and coordinate community IYCF support group activities, identifying training needs and building the technical capacity of IYCF Assistants, support group promoters, community nutrition mobilizers, and lead persons. Responsibilities include directing skilled IYCF support services, organizing food demonstration sessions, leading micronutrient supplementation efforts, and conducting focus group discussions to assess barriers to IYCF uptake. The incumbent will also support the development of IYCF multimedia messages, ensure gender mainstreaming in nutrition, collaborate with community leaders, and engage in community dialogue to raise awareness about IYCF-E activities. Additionally, the role involves taking monthly inventory of nutrition supplies, supporting monitoring and evaluation efforts, and performing other related tasks as assigned.

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. The ability to maintain confidentiality and proven experience working with IDPs, refugees, returnees, and host communities are highly desirable. Familiarity with Nigerian law enforcement systems and NGOs/CBOs is an added advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Public Health, Nursing, or a related field. Candidates with medical degrees (MBBS) are also eligible if they have the requisite experience. The educational qualifications should equip candidates with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively address nutritional needs in emergency settings.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 1-3 years of experience in a relevant field, particularly in humanitarian settings. Experience working with vulnerable populations, such as IDPs and refugees, is crucial. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of IYCF practices and the ability to implement nutrition programs effectively in challenging environments.

Languages:
Excellent spoken and written communication skills in English are mandatory. Proficiency in local dialects is highly desirable, as it will facilitate better engagement with community members and beneficiaries. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages will enhance the delivery of nutrition services and community outreach efforts.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Ngala, Borno State, Nigeria, and requires the incumbent to be flexible and willing to work in challenging conditions. The role may involve long-distance travel to implementation sites. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding and providing a safe environment for all employees and beneficiaries, adhering to strict safeguarding policies. The organization is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including those with criminal histories, in accordance with applicable laws. The job may involve additional responsibilities as assigned, and candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment.