Health Informatics Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in a long-lasting way by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established with a mission to address the interrelated challenges of health, education, and economic development, FHI 360 employs a diverse team of experts across various fields including health, public health threats, education, nutrition, environment, civil society, gender, youth, research, technology, communication, and social marketing. The organization operates in multiple countries, including all U.S. states and territories, with a significant presence in Kenya, where it focuses on enhancing health systems and community well-being.

Job Overview:
The Health Informatics Specialist will play a crucial role in providing technical support to staff and projects, specifically focusing on the STRengthening Infectious Disease DEtection Systems (STRIDES) activity in Kenya. This position involves leading the design and implementation of activities aimed at enhancing health information systems. The specialist will work closely with government partners to strengthen surveillance and health data systems, which includes digitalizing surveillance data, improving interoperability and data sharing across sectors, enhancing health data analytics and visualization, and implementing geospatial mapping. The role also requires collaboration with the project Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Officer to generate health analytics that support STRIDES MEL reporting. The specialist will coordinate with both country and Headquarter teams on the technical aspects of surveillance and health informatics system activities, ensuring that all implementations are technically sound and adhere to FHI 360’s strategies and standard operating procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Health Informatics Specialist will be responsible for providing overall technical direction and guidance related to health informatics in Kenya. Key duties include: developing a robust, integrated case-based surveillance (CBS) system that consolidates facility and community-level data across multiple diseases of public health importance; automating data collection from existing digital systems; enhancing data analytics and visualization; improving alert generation; and ensuring interoperability and data sharing through the integration of surveillance systems across sectors. The specialist will also support the digitalization of surveillance and data systems, collaborate with government counterparts in designing health informatics platforms, and facilitate data linkage and integration of partner-supported digital solutions. Additionally, the role involves developing technical briefs, reports, and other materials to promote best practices and policies related to health informatics, participating in client meetings, and providing any other necessary technical support as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess in-depth knowledge of health informatics concepts, practices, and procedures, particularly within the context of Kenya. They should have experience in developing scopes of work and deliverables for partners and consultants, as well as proficiency with database management software and online search tools. Sensitivity to cultural diversity and an understanding of the political, contextual, and ethical issues in assigned areas are essential. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, are required, along with excellent organizational and analytical skills. Candidates should demonstrate project management capabilities and the ability to influence and collaborate effectively with others. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite is mandatory, and candidates should be able to analyze and interpret data accurately.

Educational Background:
A Master’s Degree in public health, epidemiology, biostatistics, or an equivalent international qualification is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively contribute to health informatics initiatives.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in health information systems, data analytics, and data visualization. Experience with global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security information systems, disease surveillance, and outbreak/incident reporting is crucial. Prior work experience in a non-governmental organization (NGO), government agency, or private organization is preferred, along with a history of collaboration with government partners. Proficiency in dashboard development and data management software such as MS Excel, MS Power BI, Tableau, SAS, SPSS, or Stata is also required. Experience with geospatial modeling is considered a plus, as well as strong negotiation, coordination, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills. While English is the primary language required for this position, knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial but is not explicitly stated as a requirement.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and may require travel of approximately 10% to 25%. The job posting outlines that it summarizes the main duties of the role and does not restrict the exact tasks that may be assigned. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, committed to preventing any form of abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments and programs. The organization emphasizes safeguarding the welfare of all individuals engaged with its programs and requires all personnel to adhere to a code of conduct. Employment offers will be subject to appropriate screening checks, including reference and criminal record checks. FHI 360 also participates in the Inter-Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme (MDS) and will request information from previous employers regarding any substantiated findings of misconduct. The organization fosters a healthy work/life balance and offers a competitive benefits package.