PATH is a global nonprofit dedicated to achieving health equity. With more than 40 years of experience forging multisector partnerships, and with expertise in science, economics, technology, advocacy, and dozens of other specialties, PATH develops and scales up innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing health challenges.

PATH has been working in Mozambique since 2012, supporting the Ministry of Health (MISAU) and Provincial Health Directorates selected in enhancing the quality of health services, particularly in the areas of nutrition, Early Childhood Development (ECD), and prevention and control malaria.

PATH intends to collaborate with the Provincial Directorate of Health (DPS) in Sofala, the District Service for Health, Women and Social Action (SDSMAS) in Buzi and the World Food Program (WFP) to implement a project to integrate specific health interventions. nutrition and integrated care for ECD to complement the communication activities for changing nutritional behaviors that the WFP already implements in the District. This project will contribute to the implementation of the MISAU Nutritional Interventions Package (PIN) at the community level, and reinforce the integration of interventions that promote ECD in the communication activities for behavior change implemented by the WFP.

These interventions will provide children in the district of Buzi, who are at increased risk of malnutrition and impaired development due to their exposure to climate shocks, aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic, a greater opportunity to survive and thrive in such adverse conditions, and improving the resilience of caregivers to deal with similar future conditions.

PATH is seeking to recruit for a DISTRICT TECHNICAL OFFICER to be based in Buzi and work closely with DPS-Sofala, SDSMAS-Buzi and WFP. The District Technical Officer will support the training of the different project stakeholders and lead the process of formative supervision and mentoring of Multipurpose Elementary Health Agents (APEs), Volunteers, and Theater Groups, in coordination with the local supervisors, SDSMAS technicians, and WFP staff, to ensure the implementation of the PIN and quality IPR promotion activities.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support the training of trainers from the Government (DPS and SDSMAS), from the PMA to reinforce the PIN and DPI package.
• In collaboration with SDSMAS, support training courses in the PIN and DPI Package for community actors: APEs and Volunteers and support in the organization and logistics of training.
• Train journalists from community radio and theater groups in the District to promote integrated care for ECD.
• Provide technical assistance to strengthen the capacity of the SDSMAS-Buzi and WFP staff to ensure the quality implementation of PIN interventions and the promotion of IPR by community actors.
• Supporting supervisory visits and technical support to strengthen the capacity of APEs and volunteers trained to implement the PIN and activities to promote ECD in communities.
• In coordination with the SDSMAS, ensure the availability of work materials and monitoring and supervision tools for implementing the PIN, as needed.
• Support the monitoring of nutritional supplement stock levels at the community level during technical support and supervision visits, reporting problems to the responsible health area and / or the SDSMAS, and supporting actions to replenish or redistribute stocks, as needed.
• Prepare monthly and quarterly reports for the Training Coordinator and participate in monthly planning meetings.
• Reinforce links between the Health Unit and the community to facilitate referrals and follow-up for children with acute malnutrition and developmental delays.
• Participate in planning and review meetings of SDSMAS, PMA and district partners to monitor and support the integration of PIN and DPI in existing services.
• Participate in planning and review meetings of SDSMAS, PMA and district partners to monitor and support the integration of PIN and ECD in existing services.
• Assist in monitoring PIN data and promoting ECD by APEs and Volunteers.
• Document the project's activities by taking photographs, recording videos and collecting stories of interest.
• Provide other types of technical support to the project, in accordance with the instructions of the Training Coordinator, and support other relevant activities of the SDSMAS within reasonable limits.

Required Skills Required Experience

• Medium level certificate or training in community/rural development, Communication for Development, Community Health, Public Health, Maternal and Child Health, Preventive Medicine or Nutrition.
• At least five (05) years of experience providing technical assistance (training, supervision, data collection) to community-based projects working on relevant areas such as maternal and child health, nutrition, HIV, and orphans and vulnerable children.
• Experience working with SDSMAS officials and with health facilities.
• Experience working at the community level with APEs, community health committees, CBOs, and caregivers of young children.
• Ability to ride a motorcycle (motorcycle will be means of transport for all the field activities) and a relevant driver’s license.
• Proven experience in community mobilization and community-based education and counseling.
• Experience in community nutrition and / or ECD programs.
• Demonstrated ability to organize and provide trainings and to mentor community providers.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work and meet deadlines within a flexible, fast-paced environment with multiple and competing demands.
• Excellent interpersonal competence, with a demonstrated ability to solve problems with energy, flexibility, attention to detail and positive attitude.
• Strong knowledge of the culture of the Central Mozambique area, especially on care and practices of nutrition, stimulation, health, etc.
• Strong oral, written and presentation skills in Portuguese.
• Fluency in the local Ndau language is desirable.
• Availability to work and live in Buzi, with frequent trips to the localities.

Must have legal authorization to work in Mozambique

PATH is dedicated to building an inclusive workforce where diversity is valued.

PATH is an equal opportunity employer. Every qualified applicant will be considered for employment. PATH does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or orientation, genetic information, age, national origin, marital status, disability status, political ideology, military or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.