Intern for Core Group Polio Project

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to save, protect, and transform lives in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing relief and development assistance without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization focuses on various sectors including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and it welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds who share its values and commitment to serving those in need.

Job Overview:
The Intern for the Core Group Polio Project will play a crucial role in supporting the project’s objectives under the guidance of the Program Manager and Ministry of Health (MOH) staff. This internship is designed to provide practical exposure to public health programming, particularly in the areas of disease surveillance and immunization initiatives. The intern will assist in coordinating project activities in Nairobi County, contributing to the overall effectiveness and efficiency of the project. This role not only aims to enhance the intern's understanding of public health policies and practices but also to develop their skills in project monitoring, reporting, and documentation. The internship will offer structured mentorship and supportive supervision, ensuring that the intern gains valuable insights and experiences in the field of public health.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for a variety of tasks including: assisting in the coordination and implementation of community and health facility-based activities for the Core Group Polio Project, ensuring alignment with CRS program quality principles and donor requirements. They will contribute to monitoring and reporting on challenges or gaps identified during project implementation, supporting necessary adjustments to plans and schedules. The intern will also assist the MOH in collecting and analyzing project data, preparing reports according to established schedules, and providing logistical and technical support for capacity-building activities with County and Sub-County MOH staff. Additionally, the intern will be involved in project documentation, including the development of case studies and reports on promising practices, while maintaining supportive working relationships with government ministries and stakeholders to facilitate the adoption of new approaches in polio eradication. Participation in technical working groups and forums will also be part of the intern's responsibilities to stay updated on new developments in immunization and disease surveillance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree in Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, or a related field. Exposure to disease surveillance, immunization programs, or community mobilization through coursework, attachment, or volunteer experience is considered an added advantage. Proficiency in using MS Windows and MS Office packages (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) is also required. The ideal candidate will demonstrate personal accountability, integrity, trust-building, collaboration, and a willingness to learn, aligning with the agency's competencies and values.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, or a related discipline is essential for this position. The educational background should ideally include coursework or practical experience related to disease surveillance and immunization programs, which will enhance the intern's ability to contribute effectively to the project.

Experience:
While prior professional experience is not mandatory for this internship position, any exposure to disease surveillance, immunization programs, or community mobilization through academic coursework, volunteer work, or internships will be beneficial. Familiarity with public health practices and the ability to work in a team-oriented environment will also be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all documentation and communication will be conducted in English. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Kenya may be considered a plus, as it can facilitate better communication with community members and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This internship position is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience in public health programming. The duration of the internship is not specified, but it is expected to align with the project’s needs and the intern's availability. The role is intended for individuals who are eager to learn and contribute to public health initiatives, particularly in the context of polio eradication efforts. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package and fosters a collaborative, mission-driven culture focused on improving the lives of the poor globally. The organization emphasizes its commitment to safeguarding individuals from abuse and exploitation, ensuring a safe and respectful work environment.