Immunization Advisor at Jhpiego - John Hopkins University

Overview

• The Immunization Advisor will provide technical leadership and support to Jhpiego Nigeria's immunization activities, focusing on strengthening routine immunization (RI) services, particularly for under-five children and tetanus toxoid (TT) or Tetanus with low dose diphtheria (TD) vaccination for pregnant women. The advisor will be responsible for leading the implementation of activities aimed at increasing immunization coverage, improving vaccine safety and quality, strengthening the cold chain system, and enhancing community engagement. They will work closely with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), State Primary Health Care Development Agencies (SPHCDA), Local Government Health Authorities (LGA), and other relevant stakeholders to achieve program goals and objectives across Ebonyi, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi and Ondo States. This role requires a strong understanding of immunizationprograms, public health principles, and experience in implementing and managing large-scale health programs in Nigeria.

Responsibilities

Technical Leadership and Program Implementation:

• Provide technical leadership in the design, planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of immunization activities in alignment with national immunization strategies and global best practices
• Lead the implementation of strategies to increase immunization coverage for under-five children and TT or TD vaccination for pregnant women, addressing barriers and bottlenecks in access and utilization
• Develop and implement innovative approaches to improve vaccine delivery, including outreach services, mobile vaccination clinics, and integration with other health services
• Provide technical guidance on improving vaccine safety and quality, including adverse events following immunization (AEFI) surveillance and management
• Lead the implementation of activities to strengthen the cold chain system, ensuring vaccines are stored and transported at appropriate temperatures
• Support the development and implementation of training programs for healthcare workers on immunization protocols, vaccine management, and AEFI management
• Collaborate with other technical advisors within Jhpiego particularly the Nutrition
• Program Manager and QI Specialists and partner organizations to integrate immunization services with other health interventions.

Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning:

• Work with the Snr. Strategic Information Advisor to develop and implement a robust monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system to track progress towards program goals and objectives
• Collect, analyze, and interpret immunization data to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities for improvement
• Prepare regular progress reports, including data analysis and recommendations for action
• Conduct routine field visits to monitor program implementation and provide technical assistance to healthcare workers
• Utilize data to inform program adaptation and continuous quality improvement.

Stakeholder Engagement & Coordination:

• Work closely with the NPHCDA, SPHCDA, LGA, and other relevant stakeholders to coordinate immunization activities and ensure alignment with national priorities
• Participate in national and state-level immunization meetings and technical working groups
• Represent Jhpiego at relevant forums, Technical Working Groups and conferences
• Develop and maintain strong working relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, healthcare providers, community leaders, and partner organizations
• Support community engagement activities to promote immunization uptake and address community concerns and misconceptions

Capacity Building and Mentorship:

• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to immunization officers/technical officers at the state/LGA level
• Support the development of training materials and job aids for healthcare workers
• Conduct on-the-job training and coaching to improve the skills and knowledge of healthcare workers
• Facilitate knowledge sharing and best practices among healthcare facilities and LGAs

Program Management and Reporting:

• Contribute to the development of annual work plans and budgets
• Manage program resources effectively and efficiently.
• Prepare timely and accurate reports on program activities and achievements.
• Ensure compliance with Jhpiego's policies and procedures
• Participate in program-related meetings and workshops.

Documentation and Dissemination:

• Document best practices and lessons learned from program implementation
• Prepare abstracts and presentations for conferences and workshops
• Contribute to the development of publications and other knowledge products
• Disseminate program findings and recommendations to relevant stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• Medical Doctor (MD) or Bachelor's degree in Nursing, Public Health, or a related field with a Master's degree preferred
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in implementing and managing immunization programs in Nigeria
• Strong understanding of the Nigerian healthcare system and immunization policies and strategies
• Experience working with the NPHCDA, SPHCDA, and LGA health authoritiesProven experience in developing and implementing training programs for healthcare workers
• Experience in monitoring and evaluation of immunization programs, including data collection, analysis, and reporting
• Strong knowledge of vaccine management, cold chain systems, and AEFI surveillance
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Fluency in English and at least one major Nigerian language
• Experience working with USAID or other international donors is an added advantage

Preferred Qualifications

• Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of immunization principles, practices, and strategies
• Program Management: Ability to plan, implement, monitor, and evaluate complex programs
• Data Analysis: Proficiency in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting immunization data
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders
• Problem Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Leadership: Ability to provide technical leadership and guidance
• Capacity Building: Ability to mentor and train healthcare workers
• Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and respect for local cultures and customs
• Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing program needs and priorities
• Travel Requirements: Frequent travel within Nigeria to support program activities at the state and local government levels