Science and Research
Narok
Posted 9 months ago

Child.org

Project Field Assistant Job Vacancy in Narok, Kenya

Position Title: Project Field Assistant

About Child.org

Child.org is a dynamic, data-driven charity dedicated to advancing perinatal health in Kenya. Despite challenges, our commitment remains steadfast, collaborating with parents, communities, and the Kenyan government to deliver life-saving antenatal and postnatal health information. We strive to connect at-risk mothers and babies with essential healthcare services while advocating for and enhancing the quality of perinatal care in the region.

The Role

Child.org is embarking on a groundbreaking project in Narok County, focusing on supporting pregnant adolescents. With a staggering 28.1% prevalence of adolescent pregnancies (KDHS 2022), our project aims to boost health literacy, foster peer support, and enhance the utilization of maternal and child health services among pregnant adolescent girls. Join us in this pivotal initiative to improve safety during pregnancy and elevate the quality of specialized healthcare for adolescent girls and their newborns.

Opportunity Overview

This is your chance to become an integral part of our rapidly growing international development organization. We are seeking an agile, self-driven, and passionate Project Field Assistant to contribute to the implementation of our Pregnant Adolescents’ Support Group project in Narok. Your role involves collaboration with a dynamic programming team in Meru and Nairobi, as well as coordination with our UK-based team for communications and financial processes. Successful candidates must demonstrate compassion, conscientiousness, and ambition.

Role Location and Expectations

The position will be based in Narok South but will closely collaborate with the programming teams in Nairobi and Meru. Approximately 30% travel to Nairobi and Meru is anticipated.

Main Responsibilities

Implementation Support: Collaborate with health teams in Narok for effective planning, quality delivery, and adherence to Child.org’s standards.
Documentation: Maintain up-to-date project implementation documentation.
Progress Tracking: Monitor project implementation progress and resource utilization.
Workshop Organization: Organize project-related workshops and training sessions.
Mentorship: Provide mentorship to Community Health Promoters for effective group sessions with adolescent girls.
Data Collection: Collect and report data on programmatic outputs, outcomes, and impact indicators.
Reporting: Contribute to the development of monthly, quarterly, and annual project reports.
Referral Pathway: Collaborate with local health facilities to establish an effective referral pathway for pregnant adolescent girls.
Community Engagement: Ensure active community support for project activities.
Relationship Building: Maintain positive relationships with local leadership and organizations in Maternal Health, Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health, Education, and Gender.

Qualifications:

Degree in Public Health, Social Work, Community Health, or related social science (1-2 years of work experience).
Experience working with young women and children in the community.
Proficiency in working with community health promoters.
Background in running community-based groups.
Public speaking experience on health issues preferred.
Familiarity with local languages is advantageous.
Strong computer literacy skills.
Ability to work in complex cultural environments.
Effective communication and leadership skills.
Community engagement and social mobilization expertise.
Licensed motorcycle driver (advantageous).
Strong multitasking skills.

How to Apply

Send your CV (maximum of 3 pages) and a cover letter explaining your suitability for the position to programming@child.org. Shortlisting will be conducted on an ongoing basis.

Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant for Project Field Assistant

Demonstrate Passion: Express genuine passion for the project’s goals, emphasizing your commitment to improving perinatal health in Narok County.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Detail your experience in community health, particularly with young women and children, showcasing your ability to make a positive impact.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Emphasize instances where you’ve demonstrated effective leadership, crucial for guiding Community Health Promoters and engaging with local communities.
Cultural Sensitivity: Illustrate your ability to navigate complex cultural environments, ensuring a harmonious collaboration with the international team.
Effective Communication: Clearly articulate your communication skills, essential for conveying health information and building relationships within the community.
Data-driven Approach: Showcase your experience in collecting and analyzing data to measure project impact and guide decision-making.
Adaptability: Demonstrate your adaptability, as the role involves coordination with teams in different locations and diverse cultural settings.
Multitasking Abilities: Highlight your strong multitasking skills, essential for managing various project aspects simultaneously.
Tech Proficiency: Emphasize your computer literacy skills, crucial for maintaining documentation and contributing to reports.
Express Enthusiasm: Convey your enthusiasm for becoming part of a team dedicated to making a meaningful impact on perinatal health in Kenya.

SAMPLE COVER LETTER FOR PROJECT FIELD ASSISTANT

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my genuine enthusiasm for the Project Field Assistant position at Child.org, as advertised. With a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health and a demonstrated commitment to community health initiatives, I am excited about the prospect of contributing to the impactful Pregnant Adolescents’ Support Group project in Narok County.

In my previous role as a Community Health Coordinator, I led initiatives focusing on maternal and child health, where I successfully organized and facilitated workshops addressing crucial health issues. This experience equipped me with a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by pregnant adolescent girls, aligning seamlessly with the goals of Child.org.

My role involved active collaboration with local health authorities and community leaders, fostering positive relationships and ensuring the success of health education programs. One notable achievement was the development of a mentorship program for young women, resulting in improved health literacy and community engagement.

I am particularly drawn to Child.org’s data-driven approach and commitment to addressing the persistent challenges in perinatal health in Kenya. My proficiency in collecting and analyzing relevant data for strategic decision-making aligns perfectly with the organization’s objectives.

What sets me apart is not only my academic background but also my practical experience in navigating complex cultural environments. I have effectively communicated and collaborated with diverse teams, ensuring a harmonious integration of initiatives.

Moreover, my strong multitasking skills were honed through managing various aspects of community health projects simultaneously. For instance, I successfully coordinated health education sessions while overseeing comprehensive data collection, demonstrating my ability to handle diverse responsibilities.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and passion to Child.org. My cultural sensitivity, leadership abilities, and commitment to improving perinatal health make me an ideal candidate for this role. I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to the success of the Pregnant Adolescents’ Support Group project.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss how my experiences align with Child.org’s objectives in a personal interview.

Sincerely,

[Your Full Name]

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What inspired Child.org to focus on perinatal health in Kenya?
- Child.org’s dedication to perinatal health in Kenya is rooted in addressing the persistently high neonatal mortality rates and adolescent pregnancy prevalence. Our data-driven approach identifies key areas for intervention to improve the well-being of mothers and newborns.
Q: How does the Project Field Assistant role contribute to the overall mission of Child.org?
- The Project Field Assistant plays a pivotal role in implementing and ensuring the success of the Pregnant Adolescents’ Support Group project in Narok County. By working closely with health teams, promoting community engagement, and facilitating workshops, the assistant directly contributes to improving perinatal health outcomes.
Q: What qualifications are essential for applicants to be considered for the role?
- Applicants should possess a degree in Public Health, Social Work, or a related social science, with 1-2 years of relevant work experience. Proficiency in community health work, leadership skills, and cultural adaptability are crucial. Additional qualifications such as being a licensed motorcycle driver are advantageous.
Q: How does Child.org ensure the safety and well-being of pregnant adolescent girls in the project?
- Child.org prioritizes safety through effective project planning, mentorship programs, and community support. The establishment of referral pathways and collaboration with local health facilities ensures timely and appropriate care for pregnant adolescent girls.
Q: Can applicants from outside Narok County apply for the Project Field Assistant position?
- Yes, applications are welcome from candidates outside Narok County. However, candidates should be prepared for approximately 30% travel to Nairobi and Meru, as close collaboration with the programming teams in these locations is expected.
Q: How does Child.org measure the success of the Pregnant Adolescents’ Support Group project?
- Success is measured through key programmatic outputs, outcomes, and impact indicators. The Project Field Assistant actively contributes to data collection and reporting, providing insights into the project’s effectiveness and areas for improvement.
Q: Is proficiency in local languages a requirement for the role?
- While not mandatory, familiarity with local languages is considered an added advantage. Effective communication with the community is essential, and language proficiency contributes to building trust and rapport.
Q: What opportunities for professional development does Child.org offer to its employees?
- Child.org is committed to the continuous professional development of its employees. Opportunities for training, workshops, and collaboration with an international team provide avenues for personal and career growth.
Q: How can applicants showcase their commitment to Child.org’s mission in their cover letters?
- Applicants can express their passion for perinatal health, aligning their previous experiences with the organization’s goals. Highlighting specific achievements in community health and demonstrating a genuine commitment will resonate well with the hiring team.
Q: What sets Child.org apart as an employer in the field of international development?
- Child.org stands out for its data-driven approach, commitment to impactful projects, and dedication to improving the lives of mothers and newborns. The organization provides a dynamic and collaborative work environment, fostering innovation and positive change.

Possible Project Field Assistant Interview Questions With Answers

Q: Can you share a specific experience where you successfully organized and facilitated a health-related workshop in a community setting?
- A: Certainly. In my previous role, I organized a workshop on maternal health in collaboration with local health authorities. We engaged the community, addressing key concerns and providing actionable health information, resulting in increased awareness and positive behavioral changes.
Q: How do you approach building positive relationships with local leadership and organizations in the areas of Maternal Health, Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health, Education, and Gender?
- A: Building positive relationships involves active engagement, understanding local needs, and aligning our initiatives with community priorities. In my experience, I have successfully collaborated with local leaders through open communication and mutual respect, ensuring our projects complement existing efforts.
Q: How do you handle challenges in a complex cultural environment, ensuring effective communication and collaboration with an international team?
- A: Navigating complex cultural environments requires adaptability and cultural sensitivity. I prioritize understanding local nuances, actively seek feedback, and communicate transparently with the international team to ensure a harmonious and effective collaboration.
Q: Can you share an example of a time when you effectively contributed to the development of project reports based on performance indicators?
- A: Certainly. I played a key role in compiling data and developing monthly reports for a community health project. By meticulously tracking key performance indicators, we identified areas for improvement, leading to strategic adjustments for enhanced project outcomes.
Q: How do you ensure the active support of the community for project activities, especially in the context of Maternal Health and Adolescent Sexual Reproductive Health?
- A: Community support is integral to project success. I prioritize building trust through transparent communication, involving community members in decision-making processes, and tailoring initiatives to address their specific needs and concerns.
Q: In your opinion, why is it essential for the Project Field Assistant to have multitasking skills? Can you provide an example from your previous experience?
- A: Multitasking is crucial in managing diverse responsibilities simultaneously. For instance, I successfully coordinated health education sessions while overseeing data collection for a community health project. This enabled efficient project implementation and comprehensive reporting.
Q: How do you envision your role contributing to the overall improvement of safety during pregnancy and specialized healthcare for adolescent girls and their newborns in Narok County?
- A: My role is pivotal in implementing targeted interventions, fostering community engagement, and ensuring effective utilization of healthcare services. By collaborating with health teams and facilitating workshops, I aim to directly contribute to improving safety and healthcare quality for adolescent girls and newborns.
Q: How would you address the unique challenges faced by pregnant adolescent girls in Narok County, and what strategies would you implement to overcome these challenges?
- A: Understanding the unique challenges involves conducting needs assessments and collaborating with local health facilities. I would implement tailored mentorship programs, advocate for accessible healthcare services, and actively involve the community in developing sustainable solutions.
Q: How do you stay informed about the latest developments in public health and community health practices?
- A: Continuous learning is essential. I stay informed through regular participation in relevant workshops, subscribing to reputable publications, and actively engaging with professional networks. This ensures that my approach is informed by the latest evidence-based practices.
Q: Can you share a situation where your leadership skills were instrumental in resolving a conflict within a community health project?
- A: Certainly. I encountered a conflict regarding the scheduling of health education sessions. By facilitating open communication, understanding concerns, and adjusting the schedule collaboratively, I resolved the conflict and maintained a positive working relationship within the community.

Best wishes to all applicants for this rewarding opportunity at Child.org! We look forward to welcoming passionate individuals dedicated to making a lasting impact on perinatal health in Kenya.

Child.org is an equal opportunity employer. We do not charge any application fees (refundable or non-refundable) at any stage of the recruitment process.

To apply for this job email your details to programming@child.org