Nutrition and Health Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
Action Against Hunger-USA is part of the Action Against Hunger International network, which provides humanitarian relief in over 40 countries worldwide in the sectors of nutrition, health, water/sanitation, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Established with a mission to combat hunger and malnutrition, Action Against Hunger has been operational for over 40 years. The organization operates in 8 countries, including Kenya, South Sudan, Zambia, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, Haiti, and Somalia, employing approximately 2000 staff members across various country offices, with its headquarters located in New York City and an operational center in Nairobi. The organization is committed to addressing the root causes of hunger and malnutrition through innovative and sustainable solutions, and it anticipates further growth in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Nutrition and Health Specialist will play a crucial role in the operationalization of Nutrition and Health programs within Action Against Hunger's mission in South Sudan. This position involves providing technical support, building the capacities of staff, and liaising with focal points at both state and national levels to ensure the efficient management and functioning of programs and services on the ground. The specialist will contribute to the development of the technical strategy for Nutrition and Health, manage existing health projects, and identify new opportunities for innovative health programming. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government ministries and international health organizations, to ensure effective service delivery and program integration. The specialist will also oversee the quality implementation of nutrition and health programming, ensuring compliance with internal and external regulations and standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Nutrition and Health Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Providing technical advisory support on nutrition and medical treatment for children under 5 with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) and medical complications, collaborating with the Stabilization Centre staff and health facility teams.
• Ensuring the implementation of national guidelines for the treatment of SAM in stabilization centers and nutrition sites, focusing on correct diagnosis and management.
• Managing pharmacy operations at both national and base levels, including procurement and inventory management of drugs and medical supplies.
• Supporting data management and analysis for health indicators, conducting mortality audits, and using findings to improve programming.
• Training and capacity building of nutrition and health teams, including on-the-job coaching and development of training materials.
• Engaging in project management, including proposal development, budget management, and monitoring of health interventions.
• Representing Action Against Hunger in external meetings and coordinating with stakeholders to ensure effective collaboration and information exchange.
• Preparing reports on health program activities and supporting the review and analysis of nutrition and health reports for donor compliance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in Nutrition, Public Health, or Nursing, with a minimum of 5 years of experience in a similar position, or a Bachelor's degree with at least 10 years of relevant experience. They should have substantial experience in outpatient and inpatient treatment within an international organization, particularly in health programming. Technical expertise in Community-based Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM) and experience in pharmacy and nutrition supply management are essential. Candidates must also demonstrate proficiency in developing programs and writing proposals for various donors, alongside strong analytical, report writing, and presentation skills. Experience in health system strengthening and large team management is highly desirable, as is the ability to work in complex environments.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in Nutrition, Public Health, or Nursing. Alternatively, candidates with a Bachelor's degree in a related field and extensive experience (minimum 10 years) in similar roles will also be considered. The educational qualifications should align with the technical demands of the position, ensuring that the candidate has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage nutrition and health programs.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in health programming, particularly in outpatient and inpatient treatment settings. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in international organizations and managing health projects. Experience in developing and implementing nutrition and health programs, as well as familiarity with donor requirements and proposal writing, is essential. Additionally, candidates should have experience in managing diverse teams and working in challenging environments, particularly in regions similar to South Sudan.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both verbal and written, as the role requires effective communication with various stakeholders, including government officials and international organizations. While English is the primary language of communication, knowledge of local languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the ability to engage with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in South Sudan, with a commitment to working in challenging and potentially hazardous environments. The role may require travel to field locations, where living conditions can be basic and security risks may be present. The closing date for applications is June 5, 2025, and candidates are encouraged to apply early as applications will be assessed on a rolling basis. Action Against Hunger offers an attractive salary and benefits package, and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities regardless of race, gender, or other personal characteristics.