Technical Advisor - Polio

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a non-profit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in a sustainable way by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established with a mission to address interconnected development challenges, FHI 360 employs experts in health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, youth, research, and technology, creating a unique blend of capabilities to tackle today's complex development issues. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on various sectors to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities.

Job Overview:
The Technical Advisor for Polio will provide high-level technical leadership for FHI 360's polio eradication activities in Benin, emphasizing acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) surveillance, environmental monitoring, laboratory strengthening, sample management, case investigation, data quality surveillance, and outbreak preparedness and response. Reporting to the GHS Associate Director, the advisor will ensure that activities align with the priorities of the Government of Benin, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) guidelines, donor requirements, and FHI 360's technical approaches. The role involves providing technical support for the implementation of the Polio work plan in collaboration with health authorities, GPEI partners, and FHI 360 teams. The advisor will lead technical assessments, capacity-building activities, mentoring, and formative supervision to enhance the quality of surveillance systems, laboratories, and data management. Additionally, the advisor will contribute to the development of technical tools, guidelines, operational procedures, and training materials while ensuring effective coordination with the Ministry of Health, technical and financial partners, and other stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Under the direction of the GHS Associate Director, the Technical Advisor will lead the design and implementation of the technical component of the national Polio work plan. Responsibilities include daily coordination of technical and operational activities of the Polio portfolio in Benin, ensuring compliance with contractual requirements and FHI 360 policies. The advisor will supervise field staff and local consultants to guarantee the technical quality of interventions, provide technical guidance, and monitor the work of subcontractors involved in Polio activities. Collaboration with Finance and Operations teams for budget and subcontract development is essential. The advisor will provide technical leadership for various components of the Polio program, contribute to strategic planning, and formulate recommendations for program operations and implementation. Participation in the design of Polio initiatives and Global Health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security is expected, along with the development of strategies and technical tools for activity implementation. Ensuring quality implementation in accordance with international standards and contractual obligations, coordinating activities with other FHI 360 programs and departments, and supporting staff and consultants in resolving complex field situations are key duties. The advisor will work on complex issues requiring the assessment of multiple factors, exercise professional judgment in selecting methods and evaluation criteria with limited supervision, develop and maintain relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, provide technical contributions to national guidelines and normative policies in their area of expertise, interpret results, and formulate recommendations for improvement. The advisor will also execute any other tasks assigned.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess a Master's degree or equivalent in Public Health, Life Sciences, Social Sciences, International Development, or a related field. A project management certification is an advantage. A minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience in the design, implementation, and evaluation of polio eradication programs is required. At least 5 years of experience in public health, particularly in developing countries, focusing on disease eradication, surveillance, or infectious disease control is essential. Mandatory experience in polio eradication programs and managing large-scale public health initiatives related to polio surveillance is required. Demonstrated experience in developing publications, reports, presentations, guidelines, or technical tools is necessary. A good understanding of current developments in polio surveillance, laboratory support, and global health security is expected. Experience within an NGO, government institution, or private organization engaged in polio eradication is preferred. Experience in managing or developing international programs is desirable. The candidate should be able to work in diverse cultural, social, and political environments and possess a team-oriented mindset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Master's degree or equivalent in Public Health, Life Sciences, Social Sciences, International Development, or a related field. A project management certification is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience in the design, implementation, and evaluation of polio eradication programs. This includes at least 5 years of experience in public health, particularly in developing countries, with a focus on disease eradication, surveillance, or infectious disease control. Experience in managing large-scale public health initiatives related to polio surveillance is mandatory, along with demonstrated experience in developing technical publications and reports.

Languages:
Proficiency in French and English is required, with strong language skills being essential for effective communication in this role. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The application process is free, and FHI 360 will never request money in exchange for a job application. The application package must include a signed CV (maximum 4 pages), a signed cover letter (maximum 2 pages), and a copy of the applicant's diploma. The deadline for applications is October 16, 2026, at 5 PM local time. This position is open to all interested candidates of Beninese nationality or any other nationality with a work permit in Benin. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The expected hiring salary range for this role is XOF 22,000,000 - 25,000,000 for annual basic salary, with considerations for relevant experience and education, internal equity, market pay, and budget. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments and programs.