Nutrition Officer: Goma, DR Congo

Job Context

The Nutrition Officer will play a key role in assessing and addressing malnutrition and food insecurity among vulnerable populations in Goma, DR Congo. The position involves assessing malnutrition levels, developing targeted feeding programs, and educating communities on proper nutrition. The officer will collaborate closely with local health workers, NGOs, and humanitarian partners to implement effective nutrition interventions. This role requires strong technical knowledge in nutrition, experience in emergency settings, and community engagement skills.

Job Responsibility

1. Nutrition Assessment & Program Implementation

• Conduct nutrition assessments using indicators like MUAC (Mid-Upper Arm Circumference), BMI, and dietary intake surveys.
• Design and implement feeding programs for malnourished children, pregnant women, and vulnerable groups.
• Monitor the effectiveness of food aid and therapeutic feeding programs.

2. Community Nutrition Education & Training

• Develop and deliver nutrition education sessions for mothers, caregivers, and local health workers.
• Promote infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices to reduce malnutrition rates.
• Educate communities on hygiene, food preparation, and balanced diets to prevent malnutrition.

3. Coordination & Collaboration

• Work closely with local health authorities, NGOs, and UN agencies to align nutrition interventions.
• Support capacity-building initiatives for local health workers on malnutrition treatment and prevention.
• Participate in inter-agency meetings and nutrition cluster coordination activities.

4. Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting

• Maintain detailed records of malnutrition cases, program progress, and community impact.
• Prepare monthly reports and impact assessments for IRN and funding partners.
• Ensure compliance with international nutrition standards and humanitarian guidelines.

Educational Requirement

• Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition, Public Health, Dietetics, or a related field.
• A Master’s degree in Nutrition or Global Health is an advantage.

Experience Requirement

• At least 3 years of experience in community nutrition, public health, or humanitarian nutrition programs.
• Experience in severe and moderate acute malnutrition (SAM/MAM) management in humanitarian settings.
• Background in working with refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), or conflict-affected communities is preferred.

Additional Requirement

• Languages:
  • Proficiency in English and French is required.
  • Knowledge of Swahili is highly preferred.
• Technical Skills:
  • Strong knowledge of nutrition assessment tools (SMART surveys, IPC classification, WHO growth standards, etc.).
  • Familiarity with therapeutic feeding programs (CMAM, IMAM) and food security initiatives.
• Soft Skills:
  • Excellent community engagement and training skills.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities in field conditions.
  • Ability to work under pressure in humanitarian crises.
• Willingness to travel to remote areas for fieldwork and program implementation.

Others Benefits

• Salary: $3,000 per month (may be tax-exempt for expatriates, depending on local regulations).
• Housing & Accommodation: Provided or covered as an allowance.
• Health & Insurance: Comprehensive medical, life, and travel insurance.
• Transportation: Work-related travel expenses covered.
• Paid Leave:
  • Annual leave: 25 days per year.
  • Rest & Recuperation (R&R) breaks for high-intensity deployments.
• Training & Career Development: Access to professional training, workshops, and career growth opportunities.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit:

1. Updated CV/Resume
2. Cover Letter explaining their motivation and relevant experience
3. Copies of academic and professional certifications

Apply via IRN’s career portal or email applications to hr@InternationalReliefNetwork.org with the subject line: "Nutrition Officer – Goma, DR Congo".