Nutrition Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of individuals who are committed to the mission of eradicating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP is recognized for its efforts and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its work in combating hunger and promoting security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security globally. The organization values diversity and inclusion, striving to create a workplace that reflects the communities it serves, and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. WFP invests in the professional development of its employees through various training and mentorship programs, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth.

Job Overview:
The Nutrition Officer position at WFP focuses on the implementation of wheat flour fortification in Tajikistan, aligning with the government's law on fortification. The incumbent will play a crucial role in coordinating with various stakeholders, including government officials, UN agencies, and NGOs, to ensure the successful execution of the fortification project. This role requires a proactive approach to advocacy, resource mobilization, and communication, aimed at enhancing the nutritional quality of food supplies in Tajikistan. The officer will be responsible for developing implementation plans, overseeing project activities, and ensuring that the objectives of the fortification initiative are met. The position demands strong analytical skills, the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams, and a commitment to improving food security and nutrition in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Represent WFP in technical forums with government officials and stakeholders involved in fortification, establishing and strengthening necessary linkages.
• Support the development of a four-year implementation plan for the fortification portfolio within the new Country Strategic Programme.
• Oversee the implementation of the wheat flour fortification project in collaboration with the State Material Reserve.
• Lead coordination efforts among WFP technical teams, UN agencies, and development partners to ensure synergies in project implementation.
• Organize regular update meetings with regional office colleagues regarding the progress of the fortification initiative.
• Serve as WFP’s liaison to the Scaling Up Nutrition platform and facilitate the establishment of the Scaling Up Nutrition Business Network.
• Assist in developing advocacy materials and success stories related to fortification for various audiences.
• Participate in studies and surveys related to wheat flour fortification and support other initiatives as needed.
• Update cost-benefit analyses regarding food fortification as necessary. 1
• Research and develop programming to diversify funding streams for the fortification project. 1
• Mobilize WFP resources effectively for sustainable project implementation. 1
• Ensure proper communication and information sharing within the team and support internal WFP processes and procedures.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University Degree in Public Health, Nutrition, Food Technology, Economics, or a related field. Alternatively, a First University Degree with additional years of relevant professional experience and/or training courses may be acceptable. The role requires excellent analytical skills, resourcefulness, and initiative, along with full proficiency in computer applications, particularly MS Office. Experience with data analysis and visualization tools is also essential. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of food supply chains and processing, with experience in private sector engagement being advantageous.

Educational Background:
An Advanced University Degree in Public Health, Nutrition, Food Technology, Economics, or a related field is required. A First University Degree with additional relevant professional experience may also be considered. Continuous professional development through training and relevant courses is encouraged and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for this role.

Experience:
At least one year of relevant professional experience is required for candidates with an Advanced University Degree, or three years of relevant professional experience for those with a First University Degree. Experience in the food security and nutrition sectors is essential, and a background in economic research is desirable. Previous work with international organizations or NGOs is strongly preferred, and experience in the private sector is a plus.

Languages:
Excellent written and spoken English and Tajik are mandatory. Proficiency in Russian is desirable, as it will facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and enhance collaboration efforts.

Additional Notes:
This position is open to Nationals of Tajikistan only. The starting monthly salary for this position is 1,821.49 USD. The role is full-time and involves working closely with various stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the wheat flour fortification project. WFP is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. All applications must be submitted through the online recruiting system, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages of the recruitment process.