Senior Technical Officer AP3 & PMCT

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization that focuses on improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization is dedicated to addressing the interconnected challenges of health, education, and economic development, and works collaboratively with governments, communities, and other stakeholders to implement effective programs that promote sustainable change.

Job Overview:
The Senior Technical Officer AP3 & PMCT position is crucial for the implementation of essential HIV services targeting at-risk adults, children, and people living with HIV (PLHIV) in high-risk areas of the Haut-Katanga and Lualaba provinces. This role is part of the EpiC DRC initiative, which aims to fill critical gaps in access to HIV services and ensure the continuity of essential activities in these regions. The officer will be responsible for developing innovative HIV testing approaches aligned with PEPFAR priorities, ensuring the implementation of PMCT activities according to established standards, and coordinating effectively between community-based pediatric service providers and clinical pediatric HIV providers. The position also involves monitoring and evaluating interventions to ensure their effectiveness and impact, thereby addressing urgent needs of PLHIV and promoting health equity and community resilience.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Technical Officer will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including:

• Developing innovative HIV testing approaches that align with PEPFAR priorities to contribute to achieving the 95-95-95 targets.
• Ensuring the implementation of PMCT activities that meet the standards set by PEPFAR and the Ministry of Health of the DRC.
• Establishing appropriate links and coordination mechanisms between community-based pediatric service providers and clinical pediatric HIV providers to improve HIV outcomes for orphans and vulnerable children (OVC).
• Developing and making available standard operating procedures (SOPs) for pediatric care and support.
• Monitoring the interventions implemented at each site under their supervision at least once a week, depending on the volume of patients receiving ARVs or identified issues.
• Organizing evaluation and continuous quality improvement activities at least once per quarter for each site under their supervision.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a medical degree or a related field or equivalent, with a preference for a doctoral degree. A minimum of 8 years of progressive professional experience in the technical design and management of PMTCT and AP3 programs is required. Proven ability to work effectively with a range of stakeholders, including government representatives, local community organizations, donors, and other stakeholders is essential. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in HIV prevention, management, and control strategies, as well as knowledge of the national AIDS program of the DRC (PNLS) and the Congolese health systems. Familiarity with international and local NGOs involved in the national HIV/AIDS response is also necessary. Experience and/or knowledge of the PEPFAR master plan for programs targeting key populations and the objectives and strategies of WHO and UNAIDS related to the 95-95-95 goals and the HIV prevention, diagnosis, care, and treatment cascade is required. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and writing skills are essential, along with the ability to work independently and manage a significant workload. Proven leadership skills, the ability to work under pressure in a multicultural context, and the capacity to prioritize and meet deadlines are also necessary. Experience in organizing training and mentoring is a plus, and familiarity with the local context is an asset.

Educational Background:
A medical degree or equivalent in a related field is required, with a preference for candidates holding a doctoral degree. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage and implement HIV-related programs and interventions.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 8 years of progressive professional experience in the design and management of technical programs related to PMTCT and AP

• This experience should demonstrate a strong understanding of HIV/AIDS issues and the ability to implement effective interventions in a challenging environment.

Languages:
Fluency in French, both written and spoken, is mandatory. A medium level of proficiency in English is preferred, which will facilitate communication with international stakeholders and enhance the candidate's ability to engage in broader discussions regarding HIV/AIDS strategies and interventions.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local fixed-term contract for a duration of 3 months, extendable until December 2025, with the possibility of renewal. The role is based in Kolwezi/Lualaba, DRC, and candidates are encouraged to apply through the organization's website. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next steps in the recruitment process. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against any form of abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments and programs.