Senior Technical Officer

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in a long-lasting way by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established with a mission to address interrelated development challenges, FHI 360 employs experts across various fields including health, education, nutrition, and civil society. The organization operates in over 50 countries, including Nigeria, and across all U.S. states and territories, showcasing its extensive reach and commitment to global health and development.

Job Overview:
The Senior Technical Officer will provide state-level technical leadership under the STRIDES Activity in Nigeria. This role involves overseeing the implementation of technical activities at the state level, focusing on enhancing infectious disease surveillance systems, laboratory and diagnostic capacities, and outbreak preparedness and response. The officer will work closely with government entities, local partners, and subcontractors to ensure that state-level activities align with national strategies and donor requirements. Reporting to the Associate Director, Technical, the Senior Technical Officer will contribute to the development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of STRIDES work plans and quality assurance systems, ensuring that all technical activities are executed effectively and efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Technical Officer will oversee the implementation of all STRIDES technical activities at the state level, coordinating with government entities, local partners, and subcontractors. Responsibilities include supporting technical aspects of the project, capacity building for government and partners, monitoring and maintaining STRIDES protocols, and conducting analyses of project implementation to identify areas for improvement. The officer will lead technical support for laboratory/diagnostics, surveillance, and outbreak response activities, provide mentorship, collaborate with the monitoring and evaluation team, and assist in developing tools and materials for research projects. Additionally, the officer will develop strategies for the design and implementation of state-level technical activities, monitor project deliverables, and ensure that project activities are on track with work plans and budgets.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess in-depth knowledge of health systems, disease surveillance, laboratory/diagnostic networks, and outbreak response activities. They should have technical expertise in coordinating and overseeing state-level implementation of global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security activities, as well as experience in developing scopes of work and deliverables for partners. Proficiency with database management software and online search tools is required, along with excellent organizational and analytical skills. Candidates should demonstrate project management skills and the ability to influence and collaborate with others effectively.

Educational Background:
A Master’s Degree or its international equivalent in public health, epidemiology, microbiology, laboratory science, health systems, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of public health and the technical aspects of the role.

Experience:
Typically, candidates should have at least 6+ years of relevant experience in public health, laboratory systems strengthening, surveillance, or outbreak preparedness and response. Prior work experience in a non-governmental organization (NGO), government agency, or private organization is preferred. Experience supporting the implementation of USG or other donor-funded health projects is also advantageous, along with demonstrated ability to coordinate and provide technical guidance to multiple stakeholders at the state level.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the candidate must be able to read, write, and speak the language proficiently. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
The position may require up to 10% - 25% domestic travel. The job is situated in a typical office environment, and candidates should be prepared for the physical demands of the role, including the ability to spend long hours looking at a computer screen and performing repetitive tasks. FHI 360 is committed to providing a safe environment for all employees and beneficiaries, adhering to safeguarding principles and policies. The organization is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in accordance with applicable laws.