Job Vacancy For Program Officer At Institute of Social Research and Development (ISRAD) – (Upper East Region)



Company Profile

Institute of Social Research and Development (ISRAD) is a non-profit local development organization that has been providing development services in Ghana. It was founded to undertake integrated development research, design and manage development programmes to improve the lives of people. Since its inception, ISRAD has implemented various projects in the northern part of Ghana.

ISRAD is currently seeking a Program Officer for an anticipated project focused on Behavior Change Communication (BCC) initiative for the promotion of the use of microscopes and/or RDTS for malaria diagnosis.

Job Title: Program Officer – (Community Mobilization Officer BCC for Malaria Diagnosis)
Reports To: Regional Coordinator

Job Summary
The purpose of the Program Officer- Community Mobilization position is to effectively implement the program’s BCC activities at the community level. He/she oversees the proper implementation of the community based BCC activities of the program, in collaboration with other team members. He/she is also responsible for assisting the Regional Coordinator in program initiative designing, planning, budget preparation, reporting and learning. S/he is expected to maintain effective working relationships with, key government partners and NGOs working in the same geographic areas.

Working at the district and community levels, The Program Officer – Community Mobilization Officer is responsible for preparing and disseminating key messages related to malaria through innovative community-based communication tools and methodologies, appropriate to different audiences within target communities. S/he works with partners to design trainings, establish supportive social and peer networks and other community-based activities. S/he establishes implements and monitors peer education programs for youths, women and other members in the targeted community.

Key Responsibilities

•   Prepare and implement work plans (e.g. quarterly, monthly) and activity budgets for BCC community mobilization component in Upper East Region.
•   Facilitate the implementation of action plans.
•   Monitor BCC activities in program communities ? Participate in developing a monitoring/evaluation system including, identifying key indicators in collaboration with main actors at community and district level.
•   Facilitate and participate in reflective learning forums (meetings, workshops, etc) internally and externally with program initiative stakeholders.
•   Prepare reports on program initiatives assigned, and document lessons and experience.
•   Supervise and monitor activities of Community health volunteers
•   Write reports and success stories on implementation of program

Qualification Required & Experience

•   A Bachelor’s degree in Public Health Social Sciences, Mass Communications, Management, Marketing, Humanities or equivalent
•   At least 2 years’ experience in developing, implementing and reporting for community programs focused on health, including malaria and other services to women and children
•   Strong familiarity with communities and community health systems in Ghana
•   Demonstrated ability to work with the private sector, small business owners, community groups, government agencies, civil society groups, health institutions and trade unions
•   Excellent organizational, verbal and written communication skills with proficiency (reading, writing, speaking and comprehension) in English
•   High level of diplomacy skills with a strong focus on relationship building with other organizations. Commitment to building best practice, ability to replicate and transfer knowledge
•   Proficiency in computer application; word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation packages and internet applications highly desirable
•   Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to interact professionally with culturally diverse staff, consultants and project beneficiaries
•   Ability to work in rural areas

Contract Duration:
Initially 1 year, subject to performance review by Director of Programmes
Desired start date: 1st June, 2014

Location: Upper East Region

How To Apply For The Job

Interested applicants are kindly requested to send their applications in English in the form of a one page letter and a current CV describing their experience, qualifications and three reference contacts by email.

Emails should be sent to the Programme Director at hnyari@isradghana.org with copy to contact@isradghana.org

Closing Date: 20 May, 2014

•   Only shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews scheduled in Accra
•   Applicants should indicate in the subject line of the email: Program Officer- Upper East Region-Position.