Technical Specialist, Africa

Position: Technical Specialist, Africa
Employer: The Vitamin Angel Alliance, Inc. (VA)
Contract Type: Independent Contactor
Location: Africa, preferably based in East Africa

About Vitamin Angels

 Vitamin Angels (VA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit, global public health organization working to improve nutrition worldwide. VA works directly with local organizations, including governments, to reach the most nutritionally vulnerable populations – pregnant women, infants, and young children – who are underserved by existing systems. 

Vitamin Angels is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We are a dedicated group of individuals who aim to foster a supportive environment where everyone can contribute, thrive, and grow. 

Role or Purpose of the Position

 VA’s work is guided by an implementation science (IS) approach to improve the implementation and impact of nutrition policies, programs, and interventions. The Technical Specialist, Africa will be responsible for coordinating and supporting implementation research projects and providing technical support for activities aimed at strengthening the implementation of evidence-based nutrition interventions within the Africa region. This individual will work closely with cross-functional teams to design, implement, and evaluate research studies and programs aimed at informing programmatic decision-making and improving outcomes. 

Responsibilities

  • Provide technical assistance to support the design and implementation of implementation research studies, including developing research protocols, data collection tools, and analysis plans.
  • Collaborate with project teams and country teams to identify research questions, objectives, and outcomes that align with organizational goals.
  • Coordinate data collection activities, including training staff, managing data collection processes, and ensuring data quality and integrity.
  • Support the analysis of quantitative and qualitative data analysis, interpretation of findings, and preparation of reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Provide technical guidance and capacity-building support to staff and partners on research-related activities.
  • Contribute to the dissemination of research findings through the preparation of manuscripts, reports, presentations, and other publications.
  • Keep up to date with emerging trends and best practices in implementation science, research methods, and evaluation techniques.

Qualifications

  • Master’s or Ph.D. in public health, nutrition, social sciences, or a related field
  • Minimum 8-10 years of experience in implementation science, implementation/operations research, program evaluation, or a related research field
  • Strong understanding of research methodology, study design, and data analysis techniques.
  • Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., STATA, SPSS) and qualitative software (e.g., NViVo, ATLAS.ti, Dedoose)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences.
  • Experience leading or coordinating research projects and program initiatives, including coordinating team members, managing budgets, and meeting deadlines.
  • Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
  • Knowledge of global health and nutrition issues, and experience working in low- and middle-income countries is desirable.
  • Fluency in English language; working knowledge of French is desirable.

Application

To apply, interested persons should submit a cover letter; resume, or curriculum vitae to: programs@vitaminangels.org. Resumes will be accepted until July 8, 2024, or until a qualified applicant is identified.