Assistant Technical Officer, Primary Health Care

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization that has been working in Nigeria for over 30 years, focusing on improving health and education outcomes. The organization has a strong commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis in Northeast Nigeria, where it has been actively responding for the past five years. FHI 360 operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to making a positive impact in the communities they serve. Their mission is to improve lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. They emphasize the importance of safeguarding vulnerable populations and adhere to strict ethical standards in their operations.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Technical Officer (ATO) for Primary Health Care (PHC) plays a critical role in providing essential health services to a vulnerable population in Northeast Nigeria. This position involves triaging, examining, diagnosing, and treating patients who require primary health care. The ATO-PHC is responsible for prescribing appropriate treatments based on diagnoses and ensuring that patients receive necessary follow-up care. The role requires collaboration with a multidisciplinary team to deliver high-quality patient care, participate in community health programs, and maintain accurate records of patient care. The ATO-PHC must stay informed about current developments in clinical management and contribute to the overall health care delivery system in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Technical Officer will work as part of a multidisciplinary team to provide high-quality patient care to an extremely vulnerable population. Key responsibilities include:

• Providing accurate diagnosis, treatment, and management of patients in a primary health care setting.
• Assessing patients and referring them for specialized health care as required.
• Participating in the delivery of quality health care to patients.
• Adhering to relevant codes of conduct and ethics.
• Participating in outreach and community health programs as required.
• Providing health education to patients.
• Maintaining adequate and correct records of patient care, including consumables and instruments utilized.
• Collaborating with technical and M&E teams to collect baseline data for project implementation.
• Compiling and submitting periodic reports. 1
• Ensuring infection prevention and control standards are maintained. 1
• Participating in Continuing Professional Development activities such as training and mentoring. 1
• Performing any other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an MB.BS, MD, or equivalent medical degree, along with a valid practicing license. A minimum of 1-3 years of relevant experience in emergency and constrained settings is required, with experience in international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) being highly desirable. Familiarity with Nigerian public sector health systems, NGOs, and community-based organizations (CBOs) is also preferred. Previous experience working in a humanitarian crisis is a significant advantage. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of the Nigerian clinical setting and possess the ability to work effectively in a culturally sensitive environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a medical degree (MB.BS, MD, or equivalent) from a recognized institution. Candidates must also have a valid practicing license to operate within the healthcare system in Nigeria. Continuous professional development and training in relevant medical fields are encouraged and may be required as part of the role.

Experience:
The position requires 1-3 years of relevant experience in a clinical setting, particularly in emergency and constrained environments. Experience working with international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the Nigerian health system and previous involvement in humanitarian crises. Candidates should be able to demonstrate their ability to manage high volumes of work under tight deadlines and deliver quality patient care with minimal supervision.

Languages:
Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory, as well as fluency in Hausa, which is considered a valuable asset for effective communication with patients and community members. Knowledge of additional local languages may also be beneficial in enhancing patient interactions and outreach efforts.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may require travel up to 25% of the time. FHI 360 is committed to providing a safe working environment and adheres to strict safeguarding policies to protect vulnerable populations from abuse and exploitation. The organization is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including those with criminal histories, in compliance with applicable laws. Compensation and benefits will be competitive and commensurate with experience.