JOB OPPORTUNITY: Public Health Advisor

HealthNet TPO is a knowledge-driven, non-profit organization. We work in areas disrupted by war, disasters and poverty. Together with the local population we channel aid into sustainable health care development. We promote capacity building and encourage the local population to carry out initiatives to combat disease, provide psychosocial care, strengthen organizational systems and restore civil society infrastructures. HealthNet TPO offers innovative and unconventional solutions that foster self-reliance and promote durable health care delivery.

In Southern Sudan Healthnet TPO provides support to the health systems development in Jur River County, Western Bahr el Ghazal State and Psychosocial Care and Mental Health interventions in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State. In order to strengthen its public health interventions, Healthnet TPO is looking for a Public Health Advisor with expert knowledge of community involvement.

Duty Station

The Public Health Advisor (PHA) will be stationed in Mapel, approx. 80 kms East of Wau in WBEG State, at the HealthNet TPO Base. The compound in Mapel is a secured area with newly constructed offices, private tukuls, new kitchen, new sanitary facilities and community tukul. There is solar power, internet connection (V-sat) and DSTV. The compound is located near the airstrip.

Tasks and responsibilities

The PHA will be part of the Project Management team in Mapel and will be answerable to the Program Manager. He/she is expected to work both independently as well as in consultation with other team members. Main tasks include:

• Coordinate with local authorities, community (leaders) and local NGOs on Health Promotion & Education related issues in Jur River County
• Plan and (take the initiative to) organize the implementation of Health Promotion & Education activities in Jur River county
• Form and build the capacity of community health teams and/or initiate other community based health related activities
• Support community health teams in planning and carrying out health activities
• Form and lead the Public Health Department at the PHCC in Mapel – including EPI programme
• Form, train and support outreach teams at PHCU and PHCC level
• Represent HealthNet TPO in relevant meetings
• Prepare periodic monitoring & evaluation reports e.g. monthly reporting on collected data.

Preferred profile

• Applicants should have a sound knowledge of spoken and written English and Arabic, and – preferably - local languages e.g. Jur, Luo and Dinka
• Should posess a degree or diploma in Public Health from a recognized institution with a clear focus on health promotion and education
• Should have at least five years of experience working in a similar position preferably with an international NGO or relevant government department
• Computer skills with knowledge of MS Microsoft software applications (Word, Excel, Powerpoint and Access) as well as with the use of the internet
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Training skills (with proven knowledge of adult learning and community mobilization)
• Ability to work under difficult field conditions
• Ability to ride a motorcycle (possesion of valid license)

Remuneration

The successful applicant will be on probation for three months, after which he/she will be evaluated and if competent will be confirmed on a one year employment (renewable annually). Salary for this position will depend on qualification and experience. Accomodation will be provided. Healthnet TPO offers an R&R scheme.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should send their application letter plus CV to:
The Program Manager, HealthNet TPO, Mapel, Jur River County, WBEG State;
email wrmeje@yahoo.com with cc to vic.alia@healthnettpoug.org.
Sat-phone: +8821651193534; mobile: +256 782 754660 and marcel@healthnettpoug.org.

Applicants with no access to e-mail can bring their applications directly to our office in Mapel or to the Regional Office (off Ggaba road, opposite KIU), P.O. Box 21646, Kampala, UGANDA.

Closing date

Applications should reach the above locations not later than 16th of June 2008. Only applicants short-listed for interview will be informed.