Senior Technical Officer, Maternal and Neonatal Health

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established to address various interrelated development challenges, FHI 360 employs a diverse team of experts in fields such as health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, gender, youth, research, and technology. The organization operates in more than 70 countries and all U.S. states and territories, showcasing its extensive reach and commitment to global development.

Job Overview:
The Senior Technical Officer (STO) for Maternal and Neonatal Health will play a crucial role in the EpiC MNCH+N project, which aims to enhance maternal, neonatal, and child health outcomes, nutrition, and immunization in the Zambezia and Nampula provinces of Mozambique. The STO will oversee all maternal and neonatal health activities within health facilities and communities, ensuring the implementation of high-impact practices and interventions. This position requires collaboration with government and partner organizations to provide training, guidance, and supportive supervision, thereby enhancing the quality of care delivered by primary health care providers. The STO will also be responsible for capacity building within local government to ensure effective clinical supervision and quality care based on data-driven insights from health facilities. Reporting to the Technical Advisor for Maternal, Neonatal, and Child Health, the STO will ensure that project implementation aligns with organizational strategies and standard operating procedures, while also conducting analyses to identify areas for improvement and developing technical work plans to guide project activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Technical Officer will be tasked with providing technical expertise and supervision in the implementation and monitoring of maternal and neonatal health services. Key responsibilities include:

• Offering overall technical direction and guidance in alignment with project goals.
• Providing technical support and training for project staff and partners.
• Monitoring and maintaining relevant protocols, instruments, data sets, manuals, training materials, and reports.
• Collaborating with the project team to ensure sound, integrated, and comprehensive implementation of project activities.
• Conducting project implementation analyses to identify improvement areas and propose technical strategies.
• Assisting in the implementation of technical components of the project plan.
• Developing and monitoring technical work plans.
• Contributing to the development of work plans, quarterly and annual reports, and financial reports required by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Affairs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in Public Health, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field. A medical degree, preferably as an obstetrician/gynecologist or a senior nurse specializing in pregnancy, labor, and delivery, is highly desirable. Additionally, a minimum of 6 years of experience in clinical care and public health is required, particularly in SMNI programs associated with U.S. government-funded projects or international development organizations. Proven leadership experience in supervising and evaluating staff performance is essential, along with experience in designing and implementing training and guidance for maternal and child health clinical services. Knowledge of high-impact interventions in maternal, neonatal, and child health is crucial, and prior work experience in Zambezia and Nampula is preferred. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with government personnel and community stakeholders, possess excellent oral and written communication skills, and be proficient in computer software programs such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as Public Health, Social Sciences, or Development Studies. A medical degree, particularly in obstetrics and gynecology or nursing with a specialization in maternal and neonatal care, is highly advantageous. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of maternal and neonatal health and for effectively contributing to the project's objectives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in clinical care and public health, specifically in maternal and neonatal health programs. Candidates should have experience working with U.S. government-funded projects or international development organizations, demonstrating a strong understanding of the operational and strategic aspects of such initiatives. Leadership experience in supervising and evaluating staff performance is also necessary, along with a proven track record in designing and implementing training programs for maternal and child health services.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory, as it is essential for effective communication within the local context. Additionally, candidates should possess oral presentation skills in English, which will facilitate collaboration with international partners and stakeholders. Proficiency in both languages will enhance the ability to engage with diverse audiences and ensure the successful implementation of project activities.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Quelimane, Zambezia, and may require travel up to 50% of the time. The role is full-time, and the organization is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action, ensuring that all qualified applicants are considered without discrimination. FHI 360 emphasizes safeguarding and preventing abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments and programs. All offers of employment will be subject to appropriate screening checks, including reference, criminal record, and terrorism finance checks. The organization also provides a competitive benefits package and supports professional development and work/life balance.