Technical Advisor I (Outbreak Response Lead)

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a diverse workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, economic development, and more, aiming to create a positive impact on communities worldwide. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all individuals engaged with its programs, ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all.

Job Overview:
The Technical Advisor I (Outbreak Response Lead) plays a crucial role in the STRIDES South Sudan program, focusing on epidemic-prone disease outbreak preparedness and response, particularly for Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). This position requires a blend of technical expertise and operational leadership to ensure effective outbreak response strategies are in place. The Outbreak Response Lead will work closely with various stakeholders, including the National Public Health Institute and the Ministry of Health, to enhance the country's readiness for potential outbreaks. The role involves overseeing surveillance, laboratory operations, and the logistics of personal protective equipment (PPE) supply chains, as well as strengthening the capacity of Rapid Response Teams (RRTs). The successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating outbreak response activities, leading training initiatives, and ensuring that all interventions are aligned with national and international health regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Technical Advisor I include providing technical leadership in outbreak preparedness and response, specifically for Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). The advisor will lead the planning and coordination of outbreak response interventions, ensuring effective communication and collaboration with various health ministries and international organizations. Responsibilities also include developing and reviewing national outbreak preparedness plans, conducting epidemiological investigations, and monitoring outbreak trends. The advisor will facilitate training and capacity-building initiatives for government and partner staff, ensuring adherence to best practices in outbreak response. Additionally, the role involves participating in after-action reviews and supporting the establishment of Rapid Response Teams at both national and subnational levels. The advisor will also be responsible for producing technical reports and documentation related to outbreak response activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in public health, epidemiology, or a related field, with demonstrated knowledge of infectious diseases and outbreak response. Excellent coordination and leadership skills are essential, along with the ability to engage effectively with various stakeholders in complex emergency settings. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are required, as well as the ability to develop technical guidance and training materials. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in leading outbreak response activities and coordinating multisectoral efforts during public health emergencies.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in public health, epidemiology, global health, or a related discipline is required. A Bachelor’s degree in public health or a relevant health profession, along with postgraduate training in public health or epidemiology, is considered an added advantage. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of outbreak response and the necessary public health interventions.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in outbreak preparedness and response, emergency management, or global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security programs. At least 3-5 years of experience in a leadership or coordination role is necessary. Demonstrated experience in managing preparedness and response activities for Ebola Virus Disease and other public health emergencies is essential. Experience in evaluating preparedness activities and developing technical guidelines is also required, along with a strong background in training and capacity building for outbreak response teams.

Languages:
Excellent written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Arabic or local South Sudanese languages is considered an added advantage, as it may facilitate better communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Juba, South Sudan. The expected hiring salary range for this role is between USD 36,000 and 50,000 annually, depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications. FHI 360 offers a competitive benefits package and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and preventing abuse, exploitation, and harassment in all its programs and work environments. Candidates must be willing to travel to high-risk areas within South Sudan for outbreak investigations and response activities.