Technical Advisor I, Workforce Development

FHI 360 is a global development organization with a rigorous, evidence-based approach. Our professional staff includes experts in health, nutrition, education, economic development, civil society, environment and research. FHI 360 operates from 60 offices with 4,400 staff in the U.S. and around the world. Our commitment to partnerships at every level and our multidisciplinary approach enable us to have a lasting impact on the individuals, communities and countries we serve–improving lives for millions. We seek qualified candidates for a Washington DC-based position of Technical Advisor, Workforce Development to provide technical support for a new USAID cooperative agreement being implemented in Iraq.

 

Position Description:

 

Unemployment and underemployment has been identified by the Government of Iraq as among the most pressing problems facing the nation. The problem has serious implications for establishing lasting peace and security as well as building the foundation for future economic prosperity. In support of this national development priority, USAID/Iraq is considering a program designed to improve livelihoods and create jobs for Iraqis with special emphasis on youth, women, and vulnerable populations.

The Technical Advisor, Workforce Development provides technical leadership to those designing and implementing technical strategies, programs or tools in specific technical areas; provides technical advice based upon expertise and knowledge of evidence- based methods and strategies, current practice, and established operational and research standards to ensure quality and rigorous design; and builds Iraq-based program staff capacity and assesses current technical, managerial and operational efficiencies at the program level as appropriate. In addition the Technical Advisor will be responsible for providing guidance to ensure that program implementation adheres to appropriate technical standards and guidelines and that programs are technically sound; sharing new knowledge/evidence and best practices through collaboration with relevant departments and personnel; and will provide technical leadership to FHI 360 on the design and development of new proposals in this technical area based upon evidence- based practice.

The position will be required to travel to Iraq (Irbil and Baghdad) for up to 25% and may be required to coordinate and work with a diverse group of organizations, such as local governments and ministries, international and national development partner organizations, and the USAID Mission in order to complete work.

 

Job Responsibilities:

 

• Provide technical leadership in a specific technical component and activities related to the following:
  • workforce intermediary design;
  • local workforce needs and trends assessments;
  • employment, and self-employment strategies;
  • internship or apprenticeship programs and job placement support services;
  • vocational skills training, curriculum development, and improving the quality of workforce development programs;
  • education-to-employment preparedness;
  • targeting out-of-school or at-risk youth;
  • entrepreneurship and life skills training;
  • facilitating access to credit and business development opportunities for start-ups;
  • public/private partnerships and business-oriented approaches for job creation.
• Provide technical leadership in design, development, planning, implementation; and capacity-building of specific technical components of the Iraq program, among others.
• Participate in business development and business capture activities.
• Maintain a constructive dialogue and technical exchange with field counterparts and technical staff of implementing partners and other FHI 360 departments and projects.
• Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with donor/client organizations, relevant government agencies, bilateral and other NGOs.
• Develop tools for the design and implementation of specific technical components.
• Represent FHI 360 in appropriate technical forums, events, and conferences.
• Ensure that project implementation adheres to the appropriate global strategy and remains technically sound.
• May serve as a departmental resource on procedural, administrative and operational issues.

 

Minimum Requirements: 

• 7+ years of substantial technical experience in workforce development or related field as outlined above.
• Master’s degree in social sciences or its international equivalent.
• Has ability to manage projects, set realistic priorities, and plan for the successful implementation of activities.
• Excellent writing and verbal communication skills.
• Experience writing USAID proposals required.
• Must be able to read, write and speak fluent English; Arabic or French language skills a plus.
• Informed of current program developments in division/unit/technical area.
• Ability to manage projects, set realistic priorities, and plan for the successful implementation of activities.

 

FHI 360 has a competitive compensation package. Interested candidates may register online through FHI 360's Career Center at www.fhi360.org/careercenter or through the Employment section at www.fhi360.org. Please submit CV/resume and cover letter including salary requirements. Please specify source in your application.