Job Description
Project Description
The anticipated Health Service Delivery Activity seeks to reduce maternal, newborn, and child morbidity and mortality in Malawi and execute interventions in health systems strengthening and four priority health areas: family planning (FP) and reproductive health (RH); maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH); malaria; and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).
Job Summary
The DCOP, under the supervision of the Chief of Party, assists in developing and implementing innovative approaches to strengthening the capacity of Malawian institutions and communities to deliver quality, integrated health services. The DCOP provides management and technical oversight for project staff.
The position will be based in Lilongwe, Malawi and is contingent upon contract award to Abt Associates.
Key Roles and Responsibilities
- Provide direct technical oversight and support to program activities under the project’s key technical areas.
- Ensure that activity components are results-oriented, that deliverables are high quality, and that reporting is relevant and timely. The DCOP must focus on achieving results in all areas on schedule and ensuring synergies and cohesion between the various result areas.
- Assist program teams to develop and implement innovative approaches to capacity building.
- Support project staff to ensure a high quality transfer of skills and knowledge to Malawian institutions and communities.
- Provide guidance and technical support to the Chief of Party on issues related to the technical areas/functions and to ensure that all activities are consistent with accepted best practices.
- Contribute towards monthly activity updates, quarterly and annual progress reports and technical reports, as needed.
- Work closely with other technical leads to ensure a cohesive and integrated approach across all project activities.
- Participate in technical networks, meetings and select technical working groups, as appropriate, to represent the project and ensure collaboration of relevant technical work.
- Other duties as assigned.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Public Health or Medical Degree (MD) (preferred) or other clinical care degree and at least 12 years of experience supporting health service delivery programs; or Bachelor’s degree and 16 years of relevant experience.
- At least 5 years of experience in a senior technical position for a public health and/or international development project; USAID project experience highly preferred.
- Expertise in at least two of the following target health services: FP/RH; MNCH; malaria; and/or WASH.
- Experience working in the Malawi and/or other African countries in similar health systems and service delivery issues.
- Demonstrated leadership, creative problem-solving, and management skills.
- Proven capacity in working with a diverse group of partners including USAID staff, key Ministry officials, and local and national civil society organizations.
- The ability to travel extensively to program locations within Malawi as well as to other countries as required.
- Advanced written and oral communication, presentation, and representational skills.
- Excellent computer skills in word processing, spreadsheets, database management, and PowerPoint.
- Professional proficiency in written and spoken English required.
Minimum Qualifications
- (10+) years of experience and a bachelor degree OR the equivalent combination of education and experience
About the Organization
Abt Associates is a global leader in research, evaluation and program implementation; driving innovation and measurable impact for more than 50 years. What sets us apart is our evidence-based and multi-disciplinary approach to solving tough challenges in health, social and environmental policy and international development.
Specific areas we work in include:
- Health
- Education and workforce development
- Climate change and the environment
- Food security and agriculture
- Housing and communities
- Survey and data collection
Abt is a mission-driven company with a staff of 2,600. Our focus is on using evidence and cutting-edge methods to improve the lives and economic well-being of people worldwide.
