Programme Assistant (Nutrition)

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 staff members who are committed to the mission of eradicating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP is recognized for its efforts in providing food assistance and is a 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, reflecting its significant contributions to humanitarian efforts globally. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background or identity.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant (Nutrition) position is crucial for supporting the Benazir Nashonuma Programme in WFP-assisted districts in Pakistan. The role involves working closely with government departments, cooperating partners, and field coordinators to ensure effective implementation of nutrition-related activities. The Programme Assistant will report directly to the Programme Policy Officer (Nutrition) and will be responsible for monitoring activities, providing operational support, and ensuring coordination among various stakeholders. Approximately 40% of the role will focus on monitoring, while the remaining time will be dedicated to program oversight and operational tasks. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and effective communication skills to facilitate collaboration among diverse teams and partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Assistant (Nutrition) include:

• Coordinating with government departments and partners to ensure smooth implementation of activities at the district level.
• Liaising with health departments and partners to provide services to eligible beneficiaries.
• Ensuring the effective functioning of the Facilitation Centre and providing guidance to partner staff.
• Managing the supply chain for Specialized Nutritious Food (SNF) and assisting in the development of distribution plans.
• Facilitating training sessions for project staff and stakeholders.
• Acting as the primary contact for resolving complaints and operational queries at the district level.
• Maintaining records and documentation related to monitoring and service delivery.
• Assisting the Monitoring and Evaluation unit in tracking program activities and reporting findings.
• Conducting periodic monitoring trips and assessments of project sites. 1
• Supporting the Community Feedback Mechanism to address issues raised by beneficiaries. 1
• Completing mandatory training and enhancing skills relevant to the role. 1
• Performing other related duties as assigned by the Programme Policy Officer.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a secondary school education, with a post-secondary certificate or a Bachelor's degree in Nutrition, Political Science, Economics, International Relations, or a related field being desirable. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a basic understanding of monitoring mechanisms relevant to WFP's activities. Strong communication and coordination skills are essential for success in this role, along with the ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes the completion of secondary school education. A post-secondary certificate or a Bachelor's degree in relevant fields such as Nutrition, Political Science, Economics, or International Relations is preferred. This educational foundation will equip candidates with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to the program's objectives and support the nutritional needs of the target population.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of work experience in nutrition and public health, particularly in emergency contexts. A minimum of 2 years of experience specifically in Community-based Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM) or stunting prevention projects within the province is required. This experience will ensure that candidates are well-versed in the challenges and best practices associated with nutrition interventions in vulnerable populations.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written communication in English and Urdu is mandatory. Proficiency in regional languages is considered desirable, as it will enhance communication with local communities and stakeholders. Strong language skills are essential for effective reporting and collaboration with diverse partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as a Service Contract for a duration of 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs. The role is specifically for Pakistan Nationals only. WFP provides a competitive benefits package, including salary, leave, and medical insurance. The organization emphasizes a commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring a supportive work environment for all employees. Candidates are encouraged to apply through the WFP online recruiting system, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps in the recruitment process.