Senior Technical Officer, Community Engagement (Bauchi)

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a global health and development organization that has been working to improve lives in lasting ways since its establishment. The organization focuses on various health issues, including HIV/AIDS, maternal and child health, and nutrition, among others. FHI 360 operates in multiple countries around the world, providing technical support and building partnerships to address health challenges. The organization is committed to safeguarding vulnerable populations and ensuring a safe environment for all employees and beneficiaries. FHI 360 values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer, promoting affirmative action and non-discrimination in its hiring practices.

Job Overview:
The Senior Technical Officer, Community Engagement (Bauchi) will play a crucial role in the EpiC project, which aims to strengthen community engagement and demand creation activities related to maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (MNCH) and nutrition. This position involves providing technical and operational support for planning, implementing, monitoring, and reporting on community engagement initiatives. The STO will work closely with various stakeholders at the state, local government area (LGA), and ward levels to enhance the utilization of MNCH+N services in selected primary healthcare centers (PHCs). The role requires optimizing engagement with community-level stakeholders to ensure effective messaging, referrals, and linkages to healthcare services. The STO will also leverage existing accountability policies and platforms to align project initiatives with established health systems and processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Technical Officer will be responsible for designing and planning evidence-based community engagement and demand creation activities tailored to the socio-economic and epidemiological context of Bauchi State. This includes providing technical guidance to stakeholders on implementing integrated community engagement components that support both MNCH+N and Global Health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security objectives. The STO will coordinate community engagement training sessions, oversee community resource groups, and ensure the delivery of quality MNCH-N messaging and referrals. Additionally, the officer will document and report on community mobilization activities, highlighting outcomes related to service uptake and community feedback. The role may also involve other duties as assigned by the supervisor, ensuring a comprehensive approach to community health initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in public health, social sciences, communication, development studies, or a related field, with a Master's degree being an advantage. A minimum of 6 years of experience in social and behavior change communication, community mobilization, or health promotion is required, with proven work in MNCH+N or similar public health programs. Experience working with government and community stakeholders at various levels, including community-based organizations, is also essential. The candidate should have the ability to design, implement, and monitor community engagement strategies, as well as strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in public health, social sciences, communication, development studies, or a related field. A Master's degree is considered an advantage, indicating a higher level of expertise and knowledge in relevant areas. The educational qualifications should align with the responsibilities of the role, particularly in understanding public health principles and community engagement strategies.

Experience:
The position requires at least 6 years of relevant experience in social and behavior change communication, community mobilization, or health promotion. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in MNCH+N or similar public health programs, demonstrating their ability to engage effectively with community stakeholders and implement health initiatives. Experience in training facilitation, mentoring, and coaching community resource persons is also important, as is the ability to manage competing priorities and work independently.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in local languages spoken in Bauchi State is considered an advantage. Strong communication skills are essential for effectively engaging with diverse community stakeholders and ensuring the successful implementation of health programs. The ability to communicate technical information clearly and effectively is crucial for this role.

Additional Notes:
The position may require travel up to 50% of the time, reflecting the need for on-the-ground engagement with community stakeholders. The role is based in Bauchi, Nigeria, and is part of a larger initiative funded by the United States Department of State. FHI 360 is committed to providing a safe work environment and adheres to safeguarding principles to protect vulnerable populations. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and promotes a healthy work/life balance for its employees.