Technical Advisor I (TAI), Polio

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors, including health, education, and economic development, and aims to strengthen the capacity of local partners and communities to address their own challenges.

Job Overview:
The Technical Advisor I (TAI), Polio will provide strategic and technical leadership for the STRengthening Infectious Disease DEtection Systems (STRIDES) Activity, specifically focusing on polio eradication-related surveillance, laboratory strengthening, and case detection. This role requires ensuring that STRIDES polio activities align with global guidance, national policies, and donor regulations while delivering high-quality technical assistance across participating countries. The advisor will work closely with regional and country teams to troubleshoot implementation challenges and adapt interventions to evolving epidemiologic and operational contexts. The TAI will also support capacity strengthening, mentoring, and technical assistance to country-level teams, local partners, and government counterparts, ensuring alignment with the United States Government’s global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security priorities. Additionally, the TAI will contribute to FHI 360’s technical thought leadership by developing tools, guidance, learning products, and public goods that enhance the organization’s visibility and credibility in polio eradication and infectious disease surveillance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The TAI will be responsible for leading the creation and implementation of the technical portion of the STRIDES - Polio Activity plan at the country level, ensuring that activities are performed as per contract requirements and consistent with FHI 360 policy. This includes coordinating with technical and programmatic staff, supervising field staff and local consultants, providing technical direction, and preparing subcontracts and budgets. The TAI will also develop strategies and tools for the design and implementation of specific technical components within the STRIDES – Polio and Global Health Security programs. Furthermore, the advisor will ensure high-quality implementation at the country level, review donor financial and technical reports, and prepare presentations for STRIDES donors. The role requires proactive identification of risks or challenges to technical deliverables and creating mitigation plans, ensuring the quality of implemented technical activities and systems at all levels.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree or its international equivalent in Health, Life/Social Sciences, International Development, or a related field. Project Management (PM) Certification is a plus. The position requires in-depth functional knowledge around specialization and detailed knowledge of polio eradication efforts, especially in polio surveillance, case investigation, laboratory services, and reporting. Strong diagnostic, analytical, and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to manage projects, set realistic priorities, and plan for successful implementation of activities. Candidates should also have strong negotiation skills and the ability to influence others.

Educational Background:
A Master’s Degree or its International Equivalent in Health, Life/Social Sciences, International Development, or a Related Field is required for this position. Additional certifications, such as Project Management (PM) Certification, are considered advantageous.

Experience:
Typically, candidates should have 8+ years of relevant experience in designing and evaluating applicable programs/services, with at least five years of experience in public health, particularly in developing countries focusing on disease eradication, surveillance, or infectious disease control. Experience with polio eradication programs and management of large-scale public health initiatives involving polio surveillance is required. Relevant publications, presentations, reports, and manual/tool development are also necessary, along with proficiency in current polio eradication, surveillance, laboratory support, or related program developments in polio eradication and/or Global Health Security.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with the ability to read, write, and speak the language proficiently. Knowledge of Juba Arabic or other local languages is required for roles that involve direct engagement with local communities, enhancing communication and understanding within the local context.

Additional Notes:
The position may require local and regional travel of 10% - 25%. South Sudanese nationals are encouraged to apply. The expected hiring range for this role is equivalent to USD 50,000 - 65,000 annually for basic salary. FHI 360 considers multiple factors when determining an offer amount, including relevant years of experience and education, internal equity, market pay, and budget. The organization is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action, ensuring a non-discriminatory hiring process. FHI 360 also emphasizes safeguarding against abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments and programs.