Zonal TB Coordinator-Jimma Zone (Deadline: Oct 28, 2022)

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Position:                     Zonal TB coordinator (1)

Reports to:                 Regional TB Advisor

Location:                    Oromia, Jimma Zone

OVERALL RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Zonal TB coordinator is the lead technical TB expert at the Zone level for Eliminate Tuberculosis from Ethiopia (ETBE) project. S/he will provide technical support to project supported Zonal Health Department (ZHD), Woreda health offices (WoHOs) and health facilities (HF) in close collaboration with the project ETBE team. Work closely with the ZHD and will be located in the same office with the Zonal TB focal person. S/he will represent ETBE project in zonal and woreda technical meetings or workshops. S/he will coordinate trainings, supervisions; mentoring and review meetings for Woredas and health facilities in the Zone. S/he will actively participate in the TB program planning, supportive supervisions, monitoring and evaluation activities in the assigned zones.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

·       Develop close working relationships with ZHDs, WoHOs, EQA centers, health facilities and other stakeholders that have responsibility for strengthening and improving tuberculosis control and prevention program,

·       Adapt existing procedures in place to meet the needs of ZHDs, WoHOs and health facilities, and participation in woreda based planning or support planning and reviews the plan to align with the project implementation plan.

·       S/he will serve as a technical advisor who will provide technical support for ZHDs, WoHOs and health facilities to coordinate TB control and prevention program.

·       S/he will conduct/coordinate regular support at key affected population (KAP) and HFs which require strong follow up: MDR TICs & TFCs in his/her catchment area,

·       S/he will assist Woreda TB officers to conduct quarterly supportive supervision through standard of care tool,  ensure DQA, and support EQA slide randomization,

·       S/he will support ZHDs and WoHOs to ensure the timely recording, documentation, collection and reporting of comprehensive TB activities at all levels.

·       S/he will assist ZHDs and WoHOs to conduct regular training needs assessment (comprehensive TBL, MDR TB & comprehensive Lab training) and coordinate gap filling trainings.

·       Assist the ZHDs, WoHOs and health facilities in MDR TB suspect’s identification, organize sample transportation for suspects, facilitate the treatment start up and follow up of MDR TB patients,

·       Work with Zonal, Woreda and HF TB focal persons to effectively address operational challenges (e.g.  Lab equipment breakdowns, drug stock-outs, training needs, drug and reagent supply),

·       S/he will assist ZHDs and WoHOs in data analysis and utilization for local decision making.

·       S/he will assist ZHD and WoHOs in the implementation of GDF drug kit system and reagent consumption, and the overall drug supply and management system in collaboration with regional TB and Laboratory advisors,

·       S/he will support Zonal/Woreda TB focal persons and HFs to smoothly implement community-based DOTs to ensure proper adherence and treatment compliance.

·       Assist ZHD and WoHOs in the proper implementation of TPT, community TB care and PPM TB services in the Zone and Woredas and work with zonal TWGs if available or establish and work with the team.

·       Work with regional ETBE on the project baseline data collection, implementation of operational researches and data verification.

·       Undertake other responsibilities as assigned by the supervisors.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

·       BSc in health sciences field plus MSc/MPH from recognized university.

·       Previous experience of TB programs support in regions or zones is required,

·       Understanding of TB DOTS, PMDT and TB/HIV programs essential,

·       3+ years of work experience in TB or TB/HIV programs in Ethiopia.

·       Previous experience with USAID or other USG funded projects is an advantage.

·       Excellent communication, and interpersonal skills, demonstrated leadership, and the ability to work collaboratively with culturally diverse partners.

·       Computer literacy; competency with Microsoft Office, internet and email systems.

·       Previous work experience in the implementation region is desirable.

·       Fluency in written and spoken English is required.

·       Ability to work independently as well as in collaboration with colleagues and partners.

·       Capacity to do operational research is a plus.

·       Willingness to travel frequently within the catchment area is required