FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Our staff includes experts in Health, Education, Nutrition, Environment, Economic Development, Civil Society, Gender, Youth, Research and Technology; creating a unique mix of capabilities to address today’s interrelated development challenges. FHI 360 serves more than 60 countries, all 50 U.S. states and all U.S. territories. We are currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of: Technical Advisor
Project Description:
FHI 360’s TechLab adapts and designs affordable solutions that make FHI 360’s clients’ work more successful at meeting their human development goals. TechLab solutions are innovative, cost-effective, sustainable, scalable and customized depending on development objectives.
TechLab is seeking an ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) for Agriculture Advisor to work closely with FHI 360 projects and staff focusing on adapting to the impacts of climate change and variability, food security, nutrition and sustainable rural livelihoods to integrate information communications technologies to improve access to information and direct services. With a strong understanding of facilitation and systems thinking to catalyze the use of ICTs among market actors, s/he will be responsible for building FHI 360’s visibility and expertise in the ICTforAg sector. This job will focus on three core areas: new business development, technical assistance, and thought leadership.
Job Summary / Responsibilities:
New business development:
- Work with FHI 360 proposal teams on technical design inputs, partners, and staffing as necessary
- Cultivate relationships with partners and donors that work within the ICT for Agriculture (ICTforAg) sector
- Provide input and intelligence into FHI 360 business development strategies related to the sector
- Identify potential funding opportunities to support and grow FHI 360’s ICTforAg portfolio
Technical Assistance:
- Provide assistance and support in the design, implementation, and monitoring of innovative uses of ICTs in agriculture, food security, nutrition, and rural livelihoods with a focus on enhancing the effectiveness and visibility of project interventions. S/he will focus on the design of the full approach (content creation, user training, etc.) and working with technology developers to create the technology solution.
- Support projects by advising and designing technology-based support tools to improve livelihoods and build the resilience of farmers such as creating access to market information, information on improved agricultural practices and advisories, e-payments, etc.
- Design and support the deployment of mobile agriculture and technology solution(s) for supporting FHI 360 agriculture/livelihood programs.
- As requested, and with funding as it becomes available, develop a series of tools and approaches to incorporating ICTs into agriculture-related programming.
- Assess and track the latest technology tools and approaches and share on a regular basis with practitioners within FHI 360.
Thought Leadership:
- Conceptualize and organize, in collaboration with TechLab staff, 2-3 thought leadership events related to ICTforAg.
- Contribute to FHI 360 publications, articles, blog posts, and “Ask the Expert” sessions that build FHI 360 presence and expertise in the ICTforAg space
General Responsibilites:
- Provides technical and scientific leadership to those designing, and implementing technical strategies, programs or tools in specific technical areas. Provides chnical advice based upon expertise and knowledge of evidence- based methods and strategies, current practice, and established operational and research standards to ensure quality and rigorous design. Builds capacity in country-level, regional or global program staff. Assesses current technical, scientific, managerial and operational efficiencies at the program, regional, or global levels as appropriate. Provides guidance to ensure that program implementation adheres to appropriate technical standards and guidelines and that programs are technically sound. May evaluate proposal design and protocol development to en sure design is sound and based upon evidence- based practice. Provides global scientific leadership by staying current of evolving technical standards, guidelines, and program developments in area of expertise. Responsible for sharing best practices in their field of expertise and contribute to the knowledge base through participation in scientific forums and technical networks. Shares new knowledge/evidence and best practices through collaboration with relevant departments and personnel. May be required to coordinate and work with a diverse group of organizations, such as; the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MOHSW), district health staff, several international and national development partner organizations, and the USAID mission in order to complete work.
- Provide technical leadership in a specific technical component and/or program wide activities.
- With technical oversight, provide technical leadership in design, development, planning, implementation; and capacity- building of specific technical components of programs.
- Participate in resource development activities.
- Responsible for accomplishing assigned job responsibilities, and following the standards and practices of the department and division.
- Responsible for planning and scheduling own work flow and timetables, within area and function guidelines.
- Identifies areas for improved efficiency or effectiveness within prescribed parameters, and institutes enhancements to procedures.
- Maintains a constructive dialogue and technical exchange with field counterparts and technical staff of implementing partners.
- Develops and maintains collaborative relationships with donor/client organizations, relevant government agencies, bilateral and other NGOs.
- Develops tools for the design and implementation of specific technical components.
- Ensures that project implementation adheres to the appropriate global strategy and remains technically sound.
- May serve as a departmental resource on procedural, administrative and operational issues.
Qualifications:
- Master’s Degree or its International Equivalent in a related field.
- 5+ years of relevant experience in management of large projects and/or programs.
- 10 years of experience supporting agricultural practitioners through the deployment of technology is preferred, or experience in either agriculture or ITC.
- Experience in Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia strongly preferred.
- Experience working with USAID and other international donors required.
- Demonstrated understanding of facilitation and market systems thinking.
- Demonstrated ability to work with multi-sectoral teams
- Strong presentation skills
- Ability to travel internationally
- Ability to work in high pressure situations with hard deadlines
- Excellent oral and written communication skils
- Has ability to manage projects, set realistic priorities, and plan for the successful implementation of activities.
- Proficient writing and verbal communication skills.
- Relevant computer software skills (including, at a minimum, the standard applications in MS Office).
- Must be able to read, write and speak fluent English.
This job description summarizes the main duties of the job. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks that may be assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.
We offer competitive compensation and an outstanding benefit package. Please click here to visit FHI 360’s Career Center for a list of all open positions.
FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. FHI 360 is committed to providing equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or status as a veteran with respect to policies, programs, or activities.
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