Nutrition Officer (NOB)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories to promote the rights of every child. The organization focuses on reaching the most disadvantaged children in some of the world's toughest places, aiming to save lives, defend rights, and help children fulfill their potential. UNICEF Nigeria is one of the largest country offices globally, dedicated to improving the lives of children and families in Nigeria through various programs and partnerships with the government and civil society.

Job Overview:
The Nutrition Officer position at UNICEF Nigeria is crucial for implementing high-impact nutrition interventions aimed at improving the health and nutrition of children and mothers, particularly during the critical First 1000 Days of Life. The role involves providing technical support for the integration and delivery of nutrition services at both national and sub-national levels, ensuring that UNICEF's resources are utilized effectively and efficiently. The officer will also be responsible for monitoring the results of nutrition programs, managing grants, and ensuring compliance with UNICEF guidelines and donor conditions. The position requires collaboration with government counterparts and other stakeholders to design, implement, and monitor nutrition programs that address immediate and underlying determinants of maternal, newborn, and child health and nutrition.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the development, planning, and implementation of nutrition programs by assisting government counterparts and partners in designing and monitoring interventions.
• Provide technical assistance for integrating nutrition programs with other sectors, ensuring a holistic approach to health and nutrition.
• Monitor program implementation to ensure objectives are met in a timely manner, coordinating with government and partners.
• Conduct timely monitoring of system-strengthening programs and support field offices in reporting results.
• Facilitate partnerships with stakeholders to mobilize resources and accelerate nutrition outcomes.
• Introduce innovations and best practices to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of nutrition programs.
• Assist in emergency preparedness plans related to nutrition, ensuring alignment with UNICEF's Core Commitments for Children in humanitarian action.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in nutrition, public health, nutritional epidemiology, global health, or a related field. An advanced degree in any of these areas is considered an asset. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of nutrition programming and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A university degree in nutrition, public health, nutritional epidemiology, global/international health and nutrition, health/nutrition research, policy and/or management, health sciences, or another health-related science field is required. An advanced university degree in any of the aforementioned fields is an asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant professional work experience in health and nutrition programs is required. Experience in implementing health or nutrition systems strengthening programs is essential, and prior working experience with the UN or other international development organizations is considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of a local language is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is assessed as an elevated risk role for Child Safeguarding purposes, requiring direct contact with children. Additional vetting and assessment may be necessary for candidates in elevated risk roles. UNICEF encourages diversity and inclusion in its workforce and particularly invites eligible and suitable female candidates to apply. The role is subject to medical clearance and compliance with vaccination requirements, including against COVID-1

• Candidates who are government employees must resign from their positions before taking up an assignment with UNICEF. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the selection process.