Senior Technical Officer, Quality Improvement/Primary Health Care Integration

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a global health and development organization that has been working to improve lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a diverse workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on various health and development issues, including HIV/AIDS, maternal and child health, nutrition, and public health systems strengthening. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding vulnerable populations and ensuring that its programs are effective and sustainable, aligning with global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security priorities.

Job Overview:
The Senior Technical Officer (STO) for Quality Improvement and Primary Health Care Integration will play a crucial role in enhancing the integration of Maternal, Newborn, Child Health, and Nutrition (MNCH/N) interventions into the existing Primary Health Care (PHC) systems in Bauchi State. This position requires a strong technical and operational leadership capability to ensure that MNCH/N services are effectively embedded within routine PHC service delivery platforms. The STO will collaborate closely with various stakeholders, including the Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Agency (SPHCDA) and the State Ministry of Health (SMOH), to align health interventions with local health planning and service delivery structures. The role is pivotal in addressing public health challenges and improving health outcomes in the region, particularly in the context of ongoing efforts to strengthen health systems in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and other health emergencies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Technical Officer will be responsible for leading the integration of MNCH and Nutrition interventions into routine PHC service delivery. This includes working with local government areas (LGAs) to align activities with approved microplans and operational plans. The STO will support health facility staff in integrating these services into clinic schedules and client flow. Additionally, the officer will integrate MNCH/N priorities into supportive supervision systems, lead quality improvement processes, and ensure follow-up on identified service delivery gaps. Strengthening referral systems and community linkages for MNCH/N services is also a key responsibility, as is addressing operational challenges and documenting lessons learned to improve service delivery. The STO will perform other duties as assigned by the Associate Director, Technical, and will be expected to work independently while managing a high-volume workflow.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Health Systems Management, Nursing/Midwifery, Community Health, or a related field, with a Master’s degree preferred. A minimum of 6 years of experience in supporting PHC systems, MNCH, and/or Nutrition programs in Nigeria is required. A clinical background with specialization in MNCH or nutrition is essential, along with demonstrated experience working with SPHCDAs, LGAs, and PHC facilities. Candidates should have experience leading quality improvement initiatives and a strong understanding of Nigeria’s PHC architecture. Familiarity with donor-funded programs and national MNCH and Nutrition policies is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Public Health, Health Systems Management, Nursing/Midwifery, or Community Health. A Master’s degree in a related discipline is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex health systems and public health challenges.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in supporting primary health care systems, maternal and child health, and nutrition programs specifically within the Nigerian context. Candidates should have a proven track record of working effectively with local health authorities and implementing health interventions that align with national health policies and guidelines. Experience in quality improvement processes and systems strengthening is essential, as is familiarity with the operational challenges faced by health facilities in Nigeria.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication in the workplace. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Bauchi State would be advantageous, as it can facilitate better communication with community members and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may require travel up to 50% of the time within Bauchi State. The role is critical in ensuring the integration of health services and improving health outcomes in the region. FHI 360 is committed to providing a safe working environment and adheres to strict safeguarding policies to protect vulnerable populations. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and opportunities for professional development.