Health and Nutrition Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of every child. With a mission to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive, UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, working with partners to translate this commitment into practical action. In the Pacific region, UNICEF focuses on 14 island nations, including Kiribati, and aims to address the unique challenges faced by children and families in these areas, particularly those who are most disadvantaged. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, all dedicated to improving the lives of children and their families.

Job Overview:
The Health and Nutrition Specialist position is a critical role within UNICEF's Health and Nutrition programme, specifically under the Multi-Country Programme for 2023–202

• This role is based in South Tarawa, Kiribati, and is designed to enhance primary health care systems, improve maternal, newborn, and child health outcomes, and advance nutrition priorities in the region. The specialist will work closely with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, UN agencies, and civil society organizations to implement and monitor health and nutrition initiatives. The position requires a strong focus on systems strengthening, service delivery improvements, and multi-sectoral integration across various sectors, including health, nutrition, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), education, and child protection. The specialist will also engage in partnership building and donor engagement, particularly in a context that is vulnerable to climate-related shocks, making the role both challenging and impactful.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Health and Nutrition Specialist will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Programme Planning and Monitoring: Supporting the implementation of the Health and Nutrition workplan aligned with the Multi-Country Programme, conducting data analysis and situation assessments to inform planning, and strengthening routine monitoring through field visits and reporting.
• Health Systems Strengthening: Providing technical support to primary health care services, focusing on maternal, newborn, and child health, improving service delivery quality, including immunization and community-based services, and supporting the development of policies and guidelines for data-driven decision-making.
• Nutrition Programming: Implementing core nutrition interventions such as Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF), micronutrient supplementation, and management of undernutrition, contributing to multi-sectoral coordination for improved nutrition outcomes, and supporting community engagement initiatives to promote behavior change.
• Partnerships and Donor Engagement: Maintaining partnerships with government ministries and stakeholders, engaging with development partners, and preparing reports and briefs to facilitate coordination and joint programming initiatives.
• Knowledge Management and Communication: Documenting programme results and lessons learned, supporting the generation of evidence and communication products, and contributing to the visibility of UNICEF-supported results.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Health and Nutrition Specialist position should possess a strong set of qualifications, including:

• A deep understanding of health and nutrition programming, particularly in the context of small island developing states.
• Proven experience in programme planning, implementation, and monitoring, with a focus on maternal and child health and nutrition.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to conduct data analysis and situation assessments effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with various stakeholders, including government ministries, UN agencies, and civil society organizations.
• A commitment to UNICEF's mission and values, demonstrating accountability, professionalism, and teamwork.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate for the Health and Nutrition Specialist position should have a relevant educational background, typically including:

• A master's degree in public health, nutrition, or a related field.
• Additional certifications or training in health systems strengthening, maternal and child health, or nutrition programming would be advantageous.
• Continuous professional development in areas related to health and nutrition is encouraged to stay updated with best practices and emerging trends.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in health and nutrition programming, particularly in developing countries or fragile states. Experience working with UN agencies or international organizations is highly desirable. The candidate should also demonstrate a track record of successful programme implementation and monitoring, as well as experience in partnership building and donor engagement.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNICEF and with external partners. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Kiribati or other Pacific island nations would be considered an asset, as it can enhance communication and engagement with local communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a UN Volunteer role based in South Tarawa, Kiribati, which is classified as a remote duty station. Living conditions may be basic, with challenges related to infrastructure and access to services. The assignment offers a unique professional experience that requires adaptability, resilience, and cultural awareness. The role is expected to be full-time, and the candidate should be prepared to work in a high-impact environment, supporting national systems and engaging closely with government and communities.