Animal Health Technical Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to 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 focuses on various sectors, including health, education, and economic development, and aims to strengthen the capacity of communities to address their own challenges.

Job Overview:
The Animal Health Technical Advisor will play a crucial role in the STRIDES Project in Uganda, which is designed to enhance the capabilities of national and subnational systems in preventing, detecting, and responding to infectious diseases and health threats. This position requires a blend of technical expertise and coordination skills to support the design and implementation of interventions aimed at improving zoonotic disease diagnosis and surveillance systems. The advisor will work closely with government sectors and implementing partners to ensure effective project execution, adherence to standard operating procedures, and the development of necessary guidelines and training materials. The role also involves analyzing project progress, identifying areas for improvement, and delivering presentations at professional meetings and conferences.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Animal Health Technical Advisor will be responsible for providing technical assistance in animal health investigations, mapping antibiotic distribution and use in livestock, and improving animal health laboratories in Uganda. The advisor will ensure that project activities align with FHI 360’s standards and national SOPs, support the development of surveillance plans, and provide training to laboratories for detecting zoonotic diseases. Additionally, the advisor will conduct supportive supervision, monitor project indicators, and assist in the preparation of technical reports and briefs. The role includes analyzing project implementation progress, responding to inquiries from staff, and ensuring adherence to quality systems in animal health laboratories. The advisor will also be involved in operations management, collecting financial and technical data, and preparing reports for stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree or its international equivalent in animal science or veterinary medicine, with a preference for those holding a master’s degree in veterinary medicine, veterinary public health, or a related field. Additional qualifications in zoonotic disease diagnostics or surveillance will be advantageous. The role requires moderate knowledge of concepts and practices in animal health, proficiency in database management software, and excellent organizational and analytical skills. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively and possess a sensitivity to cultural diversity and political contexts.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in animal science or veterinary medicine is required, with a master's degree in veterinary medicine, veterinary public health, or a related field being preferred. Additional certifications in zoonotic disease diagnostics or related fields will be considered an asset.

Experience:
The position typically requires 8+ years of relevant experience in animal health, particularly focusing on zoonotic diseases, veterinary public health, and veterinary technology. Experience in diagnostics, surveillance, epidemiology, and AMR is essential, along with a background in working with NGOs, government agencies, or private companies in Uganda. Demonstrated success in negotiating with government sector actors to implement similar programs is also required.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with the ability to read, write, and speak the language proficiently. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position may require domestic travel of at least 25%. The job is based in an office environment, with typical physical demands including the ability to sit and stand for extended periods and to lift/move up to 5 lbs. The role does not have supervisory responsibilities but may provide guidance to lower-level staff. The job description is subject to review and revision by management at any time.