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 to address various interrelated development challenges, FHI 360 employs a diverse team of experts in fields such as health, education, nutrition, and economic development. 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 play a crucial role in providing state-level technical leadership under the STRIDES Activity in Nigeria. This position focuses on overseeing the implementation of technical activities aimed at strengthening infectious disease surveillance systems, enhancing laboratory and diagnostic capacities, and ensuring effective data collection and analysis. The officer will work closely with government entities, local partners, and subcontractors to align state-level activities 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 activities are executed effectively and efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Technical Officer will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of all STRIDES technical activities at the state level, coordinating with government entities, local partners, and subcontractors. Key responsibilities include supporting technical aspects of the project, such as 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, including data collection and reporting. Additionally, the officer will develop strategies and tools for the design and implementation of state-level technical activities, collaborate with finance and operations colleagues to ensure project activities align with work plans, and prepare reports summarizing project results and analyzing data sets. Quality assurance is also a critical component of this role, requiring the officer to develop in-depth knowledge of quality standards and coordinate activities to meet client and regulatory requirements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree or its international equivalent in public health, epidemiology, microbiology, laboratory science, health systems, or a related field. Additionally, candidates should have in-depth knowledge of health systems, disease surveillance, laboratory/diagnostic networks, and outbreak response activities. Proficiency with database management software and online search tools is required, along with excellent organizational and analytical skills. Strong project management skills and the ability to influence and collaborate with others are essential for success in this role.

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 critical 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, as is demonstrated ability to coordinate and provide technical guidance to multiple stakeholders at the state level.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the officer must be able to read, write, and speak the language proficiently. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be considered beneficial but is not explicitly stated as a requirement.

Additional Notes:
The position may involve domestic travel of up to 10% - 25%. This job description summarizes the main duties of the job and does not prescribe or restrict the exact tasks that may be assigned. 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 and affirmative action employer, ensuring that all qualified applicants are considered for employment without discrimination based on various characteristics. FHI 360 also emphasizes the importance of safeguarding against abuse and exploitation in its work environments and programs.