Fresh Jobs at African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET)

Background

• We seek the service of qualified candidates to fill the positions below for a project titled "Partnership for enhanced learning towards advancing immunization equity in Nigeria". AFENET in this partnership will serve as a country partner to Gavi to lead the implementation of the Zero Dose Learning Hub in Nigeria.
• The goal of the Zero Dose Learning Hub is to provide a structured framework for the country to improve data use and promptly generate evidence that can be leveraged to successfully identify, measure, monitor and reach zero dose children and the missed communities in which they live. 

Terms of reference

• Provide technical support in the design of survey, Responsive Feedback Mechanism (RFM) and Implementation Research (IR) protocols, with focus on developing the methodology for gender perspectives assessment in alignment with the IRMMA strategy and ZD learning agenda.
• Provide technical support in the development of data tools with a gender outlook.
• Provide technical support in the implementation of surveys and IR.
• Provide technical support in data analysis with focus on gender perspectives.
• Provide technical support in the development of evidence-based recommendations and transformative approaches for addressing gender related barriers in the context of the IRMMA framework.
• Support the design of research output materials and dissemination.
• Provide technical input in the development of the country Zero Dose Learning Agenda coordinated by JSI, the global learning partner.
• Provide technical support in the implementation of the Zero Dose Learning Agenda with focus on gender perspectives.
• Support advocacy and stakeholder engagement activities.

Required Qualifications and Experience.

• MSc / MA in Gender Studies, Human Rights Law, International Relations, Development Studies or similar, or equivalent field experience
• At least 3 years of work experience on gender mainstreaming in NGO sector, development contexts or fragile states. Experience working in public health and /or immunization programmes in Nigeria is required.
• Ability to identify the main gender gaps and barriers in the context of the IRMMA framework to inform the development of holistic strategies.
• Experience in conducting assessments and implementing MEL processes and conducting rapid and participatory gender analysis.
• Experience of representation and ability to represent the project effectively in external forums.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Strong influencing skills and experience in advocacy
• Politically and culturally sensitive with qualities of patience and professionalism.

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Background

• The African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) seeks the service of qualified candidates to fill the positions below for a project titled “ Partnership for enhanced learning towards advancing immunization equity in Nigeria”.
• AFENET in this partnership will serve as a country partner to Gavi to lead the implementation of the Zero Dose Learning Hub in Nigeria.
• The goal of the Zero Dose Learning Hub is to provide a structured framework for the country to improve data use and promptly generate evidence that can be leveraged to successfully identify, measure, monitor and reach “zero dose” children and the “missed” communities in which they live. 

Terms of Reference

• The position will be primarily responsible for supporting the monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) component of the project with focus at national and sub-national level in assigned states, closely working with national, sub-national stakeholders and the Senior M&EL Officer.

Specific responsibilities include:

• Support the MEL function for the Zero Dose Learning Hub including development and implementation of the  MEL framework.
• Provide technical support in the design and implementation of rapid assessments, surveys, responsive feedback mechanism (RFM) and implementation research protocols on IRMMA strategy. This may include design and implementation of GIS based analyses supporting surveys or Implementation Research.
• Support the development and deployment of data collection tools for surveys, implementation research and RFMs in alignment with the Zero Dose learning agenda.
• Support collection, triangulation, analysis, and reporting on program data to strengthen identification and monitoring and measurement of Zero Dose children as well as missed communities. This will include review/modification of GIS data sets and spatial analysis.
• Support program learning including development and dissemination of learning products (e.g.,Power Point presentations, bulletins, scientific abstracts or manuscripts, policy briefs, etc).
• Support MEL capacity building activities including providing technical input in the development and delivery of training modules as well as design and implementation of capacity building evaluations.
• Provide technical support in the generation of project progress reports.
• Represent the ZD learning hub in relevant national and sub-national platforms and fora.
• Provide technical assistance to program/staff to develop, update and implement monitoring and evaluation of their programs/projects.
• Assist in developing M&E data collection tools and training field staff and partners in usage.
• Enter and manage M&E data, generate findings/results and translate these into actionable recommendations.
• Conduct internal data quality audits for quality assurance purposes.
• Support project staff and partners to understand M&E requirements and procedures including indicators, definitions, and targets.
• Maintaining an updated filing system for all M&E data and resultants reports, including for funding agreements/project reports.
• Foster reflection and dialogue on the evaluation process and outcomes both within the organization and with key stakeholders.

Required Qualifications and Experience.

• A Masters' Degree in Public Health, Statistics, Social Sciences, Development Studies or relevant discipline plus an advanced certificate in M&E.
• Demonstrable and proven practical experience of at least Two (2) years of Post Graduate practice in implementing Monitoring and Evaluation activities in Public Health related organizations and institutions.
• Proof of applied skills and experience in designing, implementation, and operating M&E systems from project initiation to close out; experience in NGO sector is preferred advantage.
• Knowledge of the major evaluation methodologies and experience in analysis of qualitative and quantitative data.
• Good knowledge and experience in geodatabase management and using geodatabase applications.
• Knowledge of vaccine preventable diseases, surveillance, and immunization programs, particularly in Nigeria, would be an advantage.

Key Competencies:

• Knowledge and skills in monitoring and evaluation methodology, including ability to develop/interpret a logic model and an evaluation plan.
• Ability to design monitoring and evaluation activities for public health programs or projects.
• Ability to organize and communicate with diverse stakeholders to work together, including organization of meetings and workshops.
• Skills in developing M&E indicators and data collection plans for research or applied evaluation projects.
• Experience in reporting on M&E findings through reports and PowerPoint presentations
• Excellent skills in conducting qualitative and quantitative data analysis using statistical and/or qualitative software packages.
• Excellent organizational and analytical skills, results oriented.
• Excellent written and oral communication, including presentation skills.
• A team player.

go to method of application »

Background

• The African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) seeks the service of qualified candidates to fill the positions below for a project titled “ Partnership for enhanced learning towards advancing immunization equity in Nigeria”.
• AFENET in this partnership will serve as a country partner to Gavi to lead the implementation of the Zero Dose Learning Hub in Nigeria.
• The goal of the Zero Dose Learning Hub is to provide a structured framework for the country to improve data use and promptly generate evidence that can be leveraged to successfully identify, measure, monitor and reach “zero dose” children and the “missed” communities in which they live.

Terms of Reference

• The position will be primarily responsible for leading the capacity building component of the project as well as the research design, implementation and translation activities including development and dissemination of learning products in alignment with the Zero Dose country learning agenda.
• S/he should have optimal knowledge of the Expanded Programme for Immunization (EPI) operations in Nigeria at national and sub-national level, in-depth knowledge and requisite skills as well as experience in capacity building focusing on adult learning and skills transfer as well as knowledge management within the context of immunization programmes.
• In addition, S/he should have sound knowledge and experience in health data management, public health implementation research including research translation.

The specific responsibilities include:

• Lead the planning and conduct of capacity needs assessment in data reporting, use and evidence generation at various levels to better inform implementation of Zero Dose Immunization Programme (ZIP) interventions at national and sub-national level.
• Develop a context tailored capacity building strategic plan to address identified capacity needs.
• Lead the co-creation and design of tailored training curricula and materials focusing on strengthening capacity for data reporting, routine data management and data use for evidence-based practise in the context of the “ Identify, Monitor, Measure, Reach and Advocate” (IRMMA) framework of ZIP.
• Lead the planning and implementation of capacity building activities, working closely with the project team, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), State Primary Health Care Development Agency (SPHCDA)  in targeted states and partners.
• Coordinate training activities and interface with all level actors to ascertain the status of activities with respect to the chronogram and timelines.
• Design and coordinate evaluations to assess effectiveness and impact of capacity building interventions supported through the project.
• Coordinate activities to strengthen the knowledge management system within relevant departments at NPHCDA and SPHCDAs in targeted states.
• Lead the design of relevant research protocols and tools aligned to the country Zero Dose Learning Agenda, working closely with the Project Coordinator and in consultation with key government stakeholders, JSI the Global learning partner and Gavi.
• Coordinate the timely submission of research protocols for ethical clearance by the relevant research regulatory/ ethics authorities.
• Lead the implementation of approved research protocols including the aspects of development of Standard Operation Procedures (SOPs) and implementation plan, protocol training, coordination of field data collection, data management and analysis.
• Coordinate the timely development and dissemination of learning products (e.g., research reports, targeted power point presentations, scientific abstracts/posters or manuscripts, bulletins, policy brief) to ensure that data and evidence generated through the Zero Dose Learning Agenda is widely available for use to inform policy reviews, direct interventions, and course- correct implementation approaches.
• Provide technical input in the development of the Zero Dose Country Learning Agenda that will be coordinated by the Global learning partner (JSI)
• Support stakeholder engagement activities at national and sub-national level
• Support representation of the ZD Learning Hub in relevant national and sub-national platforms and fora
• Provide technical oversight and work with the Behavioural scientist and Research officers.
• Perform other duties as assigned by your supervisor.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Post graduate Degree in Epidemiology, Public Health, Health Policy, Allied Health, Veterinary Science, Biostatistics or other related field.
• Pre-requisite: post-graduate training through a field epidemiology training program or equivalent
• At least four years' experience working within the primary health care system in Nigeria, with at least 2 years working within the EPI space.
• At least three years’ experience in a coordination role or directly supporting  capacity building initiatives in public health.
• At least three years' experience in public health research

Knowledge Requirements / Skills:

• Language proficiency in English.
• An in-depth understanding of EPI in Nigeria is a requirement.
• Strong technical knowledge in capacity building with focus on RI data management and metrics
• Practical experience in the design and implementation of operational research in public health
• Knowledge in qualitative research design and implementation is an added advantage.
• Skills in Microsoft Office, Epi Info and other data analysis software
• Excellent skills in written and oral communication, including presentation skills.
• Good leadership and management skills.