Prosthetist _at Emergency (Life Support for Civilian War Victims), Ethiopia

Job Description

Roster position for: Ethiopia

Required languages: English

Type of contract: Fixed-term contract – paid (6 months)

Necessary requirements: Practical experience in the production and fitting of prosthetic and orthotic devices

BACKGROUND AND ORGANISATION OF WORK

EMERGENCY is working at Suhul Hospital in Shire, Ethiopia, where a rehabilitation centre was built with the aim of ensuring access to high-quality free rehabilitation, basic care, and social inclusion for people with disabilities in Shire, Tigray.

The Prosthetist will be responsible for examining, interviewing, and measuring patients to determine their prosthetic and orthotic needs, while identifying factors that may affect device suitability. The role includes the production, modification, and repair of prosthetic and orthotic devices, as well as direct support to patients in adapting to and using these aids.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Key responsibilities include:

• Fitting, testing, and evaluating devices on patients
• Adjusting static and dynamic prostheses and orthoses to ensure proper fit, function, and comfort
• Training patients in the use and maintenance of prosthetic and orthotic devices
• Selecting appropriate materials and components based on device design
• Manufacturing, repairing, remaking, and modifying prosthetic and orthotic appliances
• Creating and modifying plaster casts of body areas to be fitted with devices, for use in the construction process
• Training and supervision of local colleagues

MANAGEMENT AND TRAINING OF LOCAL PERSONNEL

Clinical activities and patient care are always carried out alongside and in collaboration with local personnel, who thus benefit from training in the field. There is also provision for more specific teaching activities, managed by the international specialists, in accordance with the clinical protocols in use and as agreed with the Medical Coordinator.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Diploma or certification in orthopedic technology, rehabilitation, or a related field
• Practical experience in the production and fitting of prosthetic and orthotic devices
• Knowledge of materials and construction techniques
• Ability to work within multidisciplinary teams
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Minimum intermediate level of English proficiency is required

REQUIRED AVAILABILITY

6 months’ overseas stay including a period of leave to be taken at the end of the mission in agreement with the coordinator. Shorter missions may only be considered for specific needs as defined by the organization