Programme Development Officer – Nutrition (HPC/ND 4)

JOB PURPOSE

Under the general direction of the Director, Nutrition, the Programme Development Officer is responsible for providing technical guidance in the conceptualization, design, implementation, and evaluation of national nutrition programmes and initiatives. The incumbent is responsible to ensure that nutrition interventions are evidence-based, culturally appropriate, and aligned with national health priorities and global standards. The Officer will also be responsible for conducting programme performance reviews, generating policy recommendations, and managing capacity-building initiatives to strengthen the effectiveness, reach, and sustainability of nutrition services across the island.

KEY OUTPUTS

• National Policies and Programme in Nutrition developed
• Standards and norms to guide the operation of Nutrition Services in public hospitals developed
• National directional priorities for the nutrition component of health care established
• Technical guidance provided
• National Nutrition Surveillance system maintained

Key responsibility areas INCLUDES:

• Participates in the development and evaluation of National Food and Nutrition Policies and programmes which are consistent with the Ministry of Health’s priorities
• Develops and reviews periodically norms and standards (Nutrition Surveillance Systems) to guide the nutritional management and care of nationally vulnerable groups and establish guidelines for evaluating nutrition programme effectiveness.
• Sets national directional priorities for the nutrition component of health care, providing a critical link between the Ministry of Health and the Regions
• Utilizes various Nutrition research methodologies to inform national nutrition policies and develop national nutrition programmes
• Develops, monitors and evaluates national programmes related to Family Health with particular emphasis on childhood malnutrition, breastfeeding, anaemia in pregnancy and the chronic nutrition-related non-communicable diseases.
• Consults with various technical specialists regarding current methodologies for nutrition interventions in order to upgrade nutrition projects and programmes.
• Participates in the planning and coordination of an annual training programme for nutrition and dietetics interns.
• Determines the cost of the basic food basket on a quarterly basis to guide policy decisions relating to e.g. minimum wage guidelines, wage negotiations etc.
• Coordinates with other agencies e.g. TMRU, NFNCCJ, FAO etc. in the development of nutrition-related research and Programme Evaluation proposals.
• Promotes healthy eating habits through participation in public education programmes as well as formal training of health staff in the area of nutrition.
• Provides technical guidance to the Regional Health Services on all aspects of the nutrition services.
• Provides consultation to public and private agencies on nutrition related matters, as well as students at all levels involved in nutrition research and projects.

Minimum Required Education and Experience

• Master’s degree in Nutrition/Public Heath which must include one year of research

AND

• Bachelor’s Degree in Nutrition, Dietetics, Food and Nutrition.
• Minimum of Five (5) years’ experience in the field of Nutrition progressive professional responsible, including programme development and implementation.
• Post graduate training in Management would be an asset
• Be registered with the Council for Professions Supplementary to Medicine

The Ministry of Health thanks all applicants for their interest; however, please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.