Career Opportunity at the Ethiopian Public Health Association (EPHA)

About the Ethiopian Public Health Association

The Ethiopian Public Health Association (EPHA) has been a cornerstone of public health advocacy and service delivery in Ethiopia for decades. As a leading organization, EPHA is committed to improving the health and well-being of communities through innovative and evidence-based interventions. Its programs are grounded in research, advocacy, and capacity building, ensuring that public health systems are strengthened to address the country’s most pressing health challenges.

EPHA is known for its collaborative approach, working closely with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and community groups. By fostering these partnerships, it has successfully implemented impactful projects across diverse regions in Ethiopia. The organization prioritizes community engagement, recognizing that sustainable health solutions require active participation and ownership from the people they aim to serve.

Currently, EPHA is spearheading an ambitious initiative through its Gidabo Policy Advocacy Center (GPAC)-funded project, focusing on family planning and reproductive health services. This comprehensive program is designed to enhance the quality of healthcare by equipping healthcare workers, improving service delivery, and strengthening referral systems. The project is being implemented across five woredas in the East Bale Zone, Oromia Region, and five woredas in the Sheka Zone, Southwest Ethiopia Region, with an expected completion date of April 2026.

RH/FP Project Officer

Role Overview

EPHA is seeking a qualified Reproductive Health/Family Planning (RH/FP) Project Officer to join its GPAC-funded project team. This role is pivotal in ensuring the successful implementation of family planning and reproductive health initiatives within the targeted regions. The officer will play a key role in planning, monitoring, and coordinating project activities to achieve the program’s goals of improving access to high-quality reproductive healthcare.

The position demands strong technical expertise and a hands-on approach to capacity building. Responsibilities include developing action plans, providing technical assistance to healthcare providers, and ensuring that services meet established quality standards. Additionally, the officer will collaborate with local health leaders, community groups, and project partners to ensure the smooth execution of activities and the sustainability of the interventions.

Qualifications

Candidates must hold either an MPH or MSc in Reproductive Health, with a background in midwifery, nursing, or health officer roles, and a minimum of four years of relevant experience. At least two years of this experience should involve project-based roles, preferably in reproductive health or family planning programs, and two years in maternal and child health services, with a focus on long-acting contraceptives. Alternatively, applicants with a Bachelor’s degree in Midwifery, Nursing, or Health Officer must have at least six years of relevant experience, including four years in project-based roles and two years in maternal and child health services.

Proficiency in data analysis software such as SPSS and Epi-Info is essential, as is experience in coordinating projects in humanitarian or conflict-affected areas. Strong organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills are critical for this role.

Key Responsibilities

The RH/FP Project Officer will oversee a range of responsibilities, including planning and monitoring project activities, coordinating logistics and technical support for fieldwork, and providing direct technical assistance to healthcare providers. They will ensure the quality of services, supervise project progress, and compile detailed reports that document lessons learned and best practices.

The officer will also work closely with local communities, utilizing community-based structures and media channels to promote family planning and reproductive health services. Financial management is another key component, requiring adherence to EPHA’s guidelines to ensure efficient use of resources. Additionally, the officer will represent EPHA in regional meetings and perform other duties as assigned.

Location and Travel

The duty station for this role is Tepi, Shaka Zone, with frequent travel to the five project woredas within the zone. This requires a candidate who is willing and able to work in remote and diverse environments, ensuring effective implementation of project activities at the grassroots level.

How to Apply

This is a unique opportunity for skilled and dedicated professionals to contribute to a transformative project that aims to improve reproductive health services in Ethiopia. If you are passionate about public health and meet the qualifications, EPHA invites you to apply for this impactful role.

Interested candidates should submit an application letter, along with a CV, academic credentials, and supporting documents (e.g., work experience and training certificates). Applications can be delivered in person to the EPHA Head Office, located near Kebena Roundabout, Addis Ababa.

The deadline for submissions is November 30, 2024. Join EPHA in its mission to create lasting change in Ethiopia’s healthcare landscape and make a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals and families.