Technical Officer, Global Health Security (GHS)

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives through a focus on health and education. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries, employing over 4,000 staff members worldwide. The organization aims to address complex health and development challenges by leveraging evidence-based approaches and innovative solutions. FHI 360 is committed to fostering partnerships with governments, civil society, and the private sector to enhance health systems and promote sustainable development.

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 vital for providing technical and operational support in Plateau State and other regions in Nigeria. The officer will be responsible for contact tracing and active case search for priority diseases, as well as data gathering and analysis related to emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. The role involves close collaboration with state epidemiologists and disease surveillance officers to ensure effective surveillance activities that align with national public health strategies. The Technical Officer will also contribute to capacity building initiatives, enhancing the skills of local health workers in disease surveillance and response protocols. This position is integral to strengthening Nigeria's public health systems and improving outbreak preparedness and response capabilities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: collaborating with state epidemiologists and disease surveillance notification officers to enhance surveillance systems; supporting the collection, analysis, and dissemination of data on infectious diseases; providing technical assistance to state-level stakeholders to improve disease surveillance and reporting mechanisms; facilitating coordination among FHI 360, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and other partners; developing and delivering capacity-building initiatives for local surveillance officers; assisting in the development of tools and materials for data management; monitoring the implementation of surveillance activities and reporting progress; supporting outbreak investigations and response activities; promoting adherence to infection prevention and control measures; and establishing productive relationships with various stakeholders, including government agencies and international organizations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's Degree or its international equivalent in fields such as Civil Society, Communication, Health, Nutrition, or related areas. The position typically requires at least 4 years of relevant experience in managing data collection and providing technical assistance. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in disease surveillance activities, particularly in the context of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. Familiarity with Nigeria's public health systems and disease surveillance frameworks is essential, along with proficiency in data collection and analysis tools. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are necessary to engage diverse stakeholders effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's Degree or its equivalent in relevant fields such as Civil Society, Communication, Health, Nutrition, or related disciplines. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of public health and the specific challenges associated with disease surveillance and response.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in public health, particularly in managing data collection and providing technical assistance in disease surveillance. Experience in working with international donor organizations and familiarity with Nigeria's public health systems will be advantageous. Candidates should also have a proven track record of success in multicultural environments and experience in capacity building initiatives.

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 beneficial but is not required. Strong communication skills in English, both written and verbal, are essential for effective engagement with diverse partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Plateau State, Nigeria, and may require travel within the country, estimated at 10% to 25%. The role is full-time and may involve working in a typical office environment, with the expectation of spending long hours on a computer. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding and providing a safe environment for all employees and beneficiaries, adhering to principles that protect vulnerable populations from abuse and exploitation. The organization is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals.