Job: Social and Behavior Change (SBC) Technical Specialist at FHI 360 - Rwanda Country Office. Deadline 22nd August 2021

Job Description

Social and Behavior Change (SBC) Technical Specialist – Rwanda Schools and Systems Activity

FHI 360 is a global development organization, with a rigorous, evidence-based approach to human development. Our team of professionals includes experts in health, nutrition, education, economic development, civil society, environment and research. FHI 360 operates from over 60 offices with more than 4000 employees in the United States and around the world. Our commitment to partnerships at all levels and our multi-disciplinary approach allows us to have a lasting impact on the people, communities and countries we serve by improving the lives of millions.  We are currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of Social and Behavior Change (SBC) Technical Specialist for the Schools and Systems (S&S) USAID-funded project in Rwanda.

Project Description 

The Rwanda Schools and Systems Activity will strengthen the education system to enable all pre-primary and lower primary school and classroom environments to be of high quality, inclusive, and focused on learning of foundational reading skills. Specifically, the five-year activity will improve learning outcomes by focusing on increasing Kinyarwanda literacy skills of boys and girls through primary 3 (P3) through four intermediate results: (1) Pre-primary education system enhanced to develop, promote and improve emergent literacy, (2) Lower primary reading classroom instruction improved, (3) School environments improved for increased lower primary reading outcomes, and (4) Education systems management strengthened for improved literacy outcomes. The Schools and Systems Activity will include a focus on learning for children with disabilities to ensure project approaches reach all children.

Position Description  

The SBC Specialist will work under the oversight of the DCOP to provide specialized technical assistance to design, implement, monitor, and coordinate SBC and demand generation interventions. S/he will be an upper mid-level member of the project team and oversee the work of approximately two SBC consultants. S/he will work with the government, regional and local partners, non-governmental organizations, community organizations, others to support the design, implementation, and monitoring of SBC activities to facilitate capacity building and educational curriculum development and other goals of the project.   

 Job Summary/Responsibilities

• Provides technical assistance and support related to the development and implementation of social and behavior change communication/demand generation/marketing strategies for improvements in primary level education curriculum development, acceptance and promotion among school and community-based stakeholders in all phases from formative research through design, media and material production, community mobilization, and evaluation.
• Supports the design and implementation of formative research in SBC and the development of related strategies
• Responds to the specified deliverables and goals of contracts and grant agreements, ensuring achievements in a timely manner and in full support and compliance with contractual agreements.
• Leads the implementation of SBC work plans, formative research, and other assigned activities. Contribute to and draft quarterly and annual reports, and all other reporting requirements as needed. 
• Liaises with and manages partner organizations involved in country program activities and assists in the implementation of project activities.
• Supervises and manages consultants who help carry out focus groups and reporting.
• Other assigned tasks that support the Chief of Party to successfully complete FHI 360 workplan activities.

Required Qualifications

At least 7 years in researching, designing, implementing and managing demand generation, marketing, social and behavior change programs and projects in developing countries and experience working in Rwanda.

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent required in public health, health communications, marketing, communications or related field.  Master’s degree preferred with at least 5 years’ experience

Specific Knowledge Requirements:

• Strong knowledge social and behavior change communication models and strategies and their practical application to improving the uptake of key behaviors and community engagement (with a preference toward experience in primary education and instruction).  Strong understanding of schools and education systems in Rwanda.
• Knowledge of evidence-based, innovative, and practical solutions to communication challenges in developing countries.
• Field experience in developing and implementing SBC projects and programs in Rwanda and/or other African countries that have demonstrated impact, at scale.
• Understanding of widely accepted formative research, pretesting, and monitoring and evaluation methodologies for effective demand generation and SBC interventions.
• Understanding of capacity strengthening strategies and approaches to develop and strengthen SBC knowledge, ability, and skills among a wide array of technical staff.  
• Demonstrated strong technical, programming, and management skills.
• Proven ability to work as an effective team member
• Proven ability to work independently by setting own milestones and completed assigned tasks
• Excellent oral/written communication skills in English, French, and Kinyarwanda.  Demonstrated interpersonal and negotiation skills, and experience working in collaboration with the private sector, government, partners, donors, and NGOs.
• Ability to set priorities while multitasking and meet deadlines.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work and are subject to modification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with the job. 

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 a package of exceptional benefits. Please visit the FHI 360 Career Center at http://www.fhi360.org/careers  for a list of all open positions. 

FHI 360 is an employer with equal opportunity and affirmative action. FHI 360 is committed to providing equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or veteran status in policies, programs, or activities. 

The deadline:22nd August 2021

CLICK HERE TO APPLY