Cluster Lead - TB Central Zone

Job Posting Organization:
The Clinton Health Access Initiative, Inc. (CHAI) is a global health organization founded in 2002, dedicated to saving lives and reducing the burden of disease in low- and middle-income countries. CHAI operates in over 40 countries and works closely with governments and the private sector to create and sustain high-quality health systems. Initially established to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic, CHAI has since expanded its focus to include a range of infectious diseases such as COVID-19, malaria, tuberculosis, and hepatitis, as well as non-communicable diseases like cancer and diabetes. The organization emphasizes sustainable impact and the sharing of learnings globally, ensuring that programs are designed to scale nationally and that governments lead the solutions. CHAI's diverse team is comprised of enthusiastic individuals with a broad range of skills and experiences, primarily based in the countries where they operate, which enhances their effectiveness and relevance in addressing local health challenges.

Job Overview:
The Cluster Lead will play a pivotal role in the deployment and operationalization of handheld digital chest X-ray (dCXR) machines and the DeepCXR AI tool across a designated cluster of states in India. This position requires close collaboration with state program teams, facility staff, vendors, and the Central TB Division (CTD) to ensure that the machines are not only installed but also functional and actively utilized for tuberculosis (TB) screening. The Cluster Lead will be responsible for building the capacity of radiographers and field teams through structured training programs, hands-on support, and troubleshooting assistance. This role serves as a critical link between the national program and ground-level implementation, ensuring that the objectives of the National TB Elimination Program (NTEP) are met effectively. The position demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to improving health outcomes through innovative technology and effective training.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Cluster Lead include coordinating the deployment, installation, and operationalization of handheld X-ray machines across assigned states and facilities. The Cluster Lead will support the installation and configuration of the DeepCXR software on X-ray devices, monitor installation timelines, utilization status, and operational challenges, and escalate any delays or unresolved issues to relevant stakeholders. They will provide first-level troubleshooting support for both the handheld X-ray machines and the DeepCXR software, ensuring that any connectivity or operational issues are addressed promptly in coordination with vendors. Additionally, the Cluster Lead will conduct training sessions for radiographers and field teams on machine operation, image quality, radiation safety, and the use of DeepCXR. They will also provide refresher training, on-site mentoring, and continuous support to enhance utilization and competency at the facility level. The Cluster Lead will assist in the development and standardization of standard operating procedures (SOPs), training materials, troubleshooting guides, and user manuals based on field requirements. Furthermore, they will serve as the primary coordination link between assigned states/UTs and the Central TB Division for technical and operational support, and assist states in planning for optimal deployment of X-ray capacity for Active Case Finding (ACF).

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a graduate or master's degree in a relevant field such as life sciences, public health, health technology, radiography, or a related discipline. A minimum of three years of experience in health program implementation, preferably at the field level, is required. Prior experience in device deployment, field coordination, or technical support within a health setting is essential. The ideal candidate should demonstrate the ability to conduct training and capacity-building initiatives for health workers and must be willing to undertake extensive field travel across the assigned cluster. Preferred qualifications include experience working in tuberculosis programs, particularly in Active Case Finding (ACF) or chest X-ray-based TB screening, familiarity with handheld or portable X-ray equipment and/or AI-based diagnostic tools, and prior experience working with government health systems at the state or district level. Knowledge of the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP) structure and operations is also advantageous, as is experience working in states such as Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, or Uttarakhand.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a graduate or master's degree in relevant fields such as life sciences, public health, health technology, radiography, or a related discipline. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of health systems and the technical aspects of the devices being deployed.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of experience in health program implementation, with a preference for candidates who have field-level experience. This experience should ideally include roles that involve device deployment, field coordination, or technical support in a health setting, as well as the ability to conduct training and capacity-building for health workers.

Languages:
Proficiency in local languages of the assigned state is considered an advantage. While English is likely a mandatory language for communication within the organization, knowledge of regional languages will facilitate better engagement with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of training and support provided to health workers.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and involves extensive field travel across the assigned cluster of states. The Cluster Lead will be expected to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously, demonstrating strong coordination and stakeholder management skills. The role is critical for the successful implementation of the National TB Elimination Program and offers an opportunity to make a significant impact on public health outcomes in India. Compensation and benefits details are typically provided during the interview process.