Health and Nutrition Officer

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in a long way by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established with a mission to address interrelated development challenges, FHI 360 employs experts across various fields including health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, gender, youth, research, and technology. The organization operates in more than 70 countries, including all 50 U.S. states and territories. FHI 360's Crisis Response team has been actively involved in humanitarian efforts in Ethiopia, particularly in regions affected by conflict, drought, and floods, such as Tigray, Amhara, Somali, and Oromia. The organization aims to expand its humanitarian reach to the Somali Region in Eastern Ethiopia in 2025, collaborating with local organizations to implement integrated humanitarian programming.

Job Overview:
The Health and Nutrition Officer will work under the supervision of the health and nutrition team leader, playing a crucial role in supporting the start-up health and nutrition activities in FHI 360's program implementation areas. This position requires providing technical guidance to ensure that program implementation adheres to international technical standards and guidelines. The officer will be responsible for strengthening health and nutrition services, which include counseling, linking clients to necessary treatments, and preparing treatment plans. The role is essential in ensuring that the health and nutrition initiatives are effectively integrated and that the needs of the affected populations are met in a timely and efficient manner.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Health and Nutrition Officer will implement standard protocols such as IMNCI, BEmONC, and CMAM at health facilities. They will coordinate health and nutrition project activities, ensuring synergy with other projects. The officer will oversee the quality implementation of PHC, OTP, SC, and IYCF programs, organizing training sessions for IMNCI/RH and OTP/IYCF while providing technical support to Health Extension Workers (HEW). Monitoring the status of RUTF and drug consumption at health facilities is also a key responsibility. The officer will participate in capacity-building training, conduct outreach work, and follow up on cases referred by community volunteers. They will supervise sanitation quality and availability of supplies in health facilities, compile reports, mentor HEW, and support program integration with partners and the Ministry of Health. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate proficiency with database management software and online search tools. They should have the ability to develop scopes of work and deliverables for partners and consultants. A sensitivity to cultural diversity and an understanding of the political context and ethical issues in the assigned areas are essential. The officer must possess excellent oral and written communication skills, organizational and analytical skills, and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. The ability to analyze and interpret data, identify errors, and prepare reports is crucial. Problem-solving skills and the ability to implement corrective actions are also required, along with the ability to communicate effectively with clients and staff.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in nursing, public health, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding health and nutrition protocols and practices.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of field experience in humanitarian work, with significant experience in managing integrated projects. Knowledge of the latest nutrition-related technical guidelines and standards in emergency nutrition and health is essential. Experience working with NGOs in areas such as IMNCI/RH, CMAM/OTP/SC, and IYCF, as well as community engagement programs, is highly desirable. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team are also important.

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

Additional Notes:
This position may involve working in challenging environments, requiring cultural and gender sensitivity. The typical physical demands include spending long hours in field activities, visiting health service institutions, and participating in zonal level cluster meetings. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse, exploitation, and harassment. All offers of employment will be subject to appropriate screening checks, including reference and criminal record checks. The organization also participates in the Inter-Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme, ensuring a thorough recruitment process.