Nutrition Assistant

About the role

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is hiring a Nutrition Assistant in Gusau, Zamfara State, Nigeria. Working under the supervision of the Nutrition Manager, the post covers all USG/OHA projects in the assigned local government area and oversees nutrition activities for IRC-supported OTPs, supervised SMOH OTPs, SC staff and CNMs. The assistant reports to the Nutrition Officer.

Key responsibilities

• Support planning and implementation of project activities at field level and track progress against targets in each LGA.
• Ensure quality identification and treatment of medical complications of malnutrition in OTPs, advise on referrals to the nearest SC and escort patients to referral facilities when needed.
• Supervise patient management in OTPs, monitor and record vital signs, and improve the MIYCN program so mothers establish breastfeeding well.
• Monitor therapeutic feeds (RUTF, therapeutic milk, ReSoMal) and ensure clients receive them as required.
• Conduct periodic LGA-level progress analysis, document lessons learned, identify program gaps and propose solutions.
• Provide capacity building and on-the-job coaching to facility staff on IMAM services and MIYCF best practices.
• Support nutrition data collection, reporting to SMOHs through LGA health authorities (HMIS) and regular nutrition reports.
• Support community-based management of acute malnutrition, including follow-up, referrals and health education, together with community nutrition mobilizers.
• Monitor OTP performance with regular visits, collect success stories and photos, and collaborate with Environmental Health, Women Protection & Empowerment and Child Protection.
• Participate in proposals, budgets and concept notes, monitor purchases of materials and equipment, maintain equipment and submit inventory reports.
• Take part in evaluations against program objectives and any other tasks assigned by the supervisor.

Required profile

• BNSC, BSc or Diploma in Nursing, Midwifery, Nutrition or Health Education with a strong nutrition background.
• Registration with a professional body or council in Nigeria.
• At least 2 years' experience managing and implementing nutrition programs in OTPs.
• Able to lead a team and manage staff, and able to work under pressure with flexible, diplomatic behaviour.
• Ability to work with displaced communities of diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

Required skills

• Good use of Microsoft Office packages.
• Knowledge of IRC's core values of Integrity, Accountability, Service and Equality.