Technical Officer, Global Health Security (GHS)

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a global 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, economic development, and social justice, and aims to address the interconnected challenges of poverty, health, and education through innovative and sustainable approaches.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer for Global Health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security (GHS) will play a crucial role in supporting the EpiC project, which is a global health initiative funded by the United States Department of State. This position is responsible for providing technical and operational support in Bauchi State and other selected states for contact tracing and active case search of priority diseases. The officer will work closely with state epidemiologists and disease surveillance officers to coordinate surveillance activities and ensure alignment with national public health strategies. The role also involves capacity building at the state level, focusing on various components such as outbreak response, infection prevention and control, and risk communication. The Technical Officer will contribute to the design, implementation, and monitoring of GHS strategies aimed at improving outbreak preparedness and response.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Officer will be responsible for collaborating with state epidemiologists and disease surveillance officers to strengthen surveillance systems, including contact tracing and active case search. Key responsibilities include supporting the collection, analysis, and dissemination of data on emerging infectious diseases, providing technical assistance to state-level stakeholders, facilitating coordination between FHI 360, NCDC, and other partners, and developing capacity-building initiatives for local surveillance officers. The officer will also assist in the development of tools for surveillance and data management, monitor the implementation of surveillance activities, support outbreak investigations, and promote adherence to infection prevention measures. Establishing and maintaining collaborative relationships with various stakeholders is essential, as is performing other duties as assigned by senior management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's Degree or its international equivalent in fields such as Civil Society, Communication, Health, or related areas. A minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in managing data collection and providing technical assistance is required. Demonstrated experience in disease surveillance activities, particularly in emerging infectious diseases, is essential. Familiarity with Nigeria's public health systems and disease surveillance frameworks is also necessary, along with proficiency in data collection and reporting tools. Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills are critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor's Degree or its equivalent in relevant fields such as Civil Society, Communication, Health, Nutrition, or related disciplines. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to the organization's public health initiatives.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 4 years of relevant experience in public health, particularly in managing data collection and providing technical assistance. Experience in emerging and re-emerging infectious disease surveillance activities is crucial, along with a strong background in designing, implementing, and monitoring capacity-building initiatives. Familiarity with GHS indicators and activities, as well as experience working with international donor organizations and Nigerian public health systems, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with stakeholders. Knowledge of local languages may be considered an advantage, as it can facilitate better communication with community members and local partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Bauchi State and may require travel within Nigeria, approximately 10% to 25% of the time. The role is full-time and may involve working in a multidisciplinary team environment. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding and providing a safe environment for all employees and beneficiaries, adhering to principles of child safeguarding and preventing abuse and exploitation. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and promotes a healthy work/life balance.