Job Summary
- Employer: Catholic Relief Services
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Health and Nutrition
- Closing Date: 2026-10-20
Key Responsibilities
- Support the district coordination and implementation of all assigned project activities as outlined in the detailed implementation plan in line with CRS program quality principles and standards, donor requirements, and good practices.
- Data Management
- Ensuring quality district data integrity, security, and compliance with government, organizational and donor requirements.
- Maintain district project dashboards and databases for real time monitoring using tools like Power BI, Tableau, or DHIS2.Visualize data through interactive dashboards and charts.
- Facilitate implementation of digital data collection systems (e.g. mobile apps, online forms).
- Monitor and report on any district challenges and/or gaps identified to inform adjustments to plans and implementation schedules. Assist partners in their efforts to reflect on project experiences.
- Support district accountability through coordinating project evaluation activities and assisting partners in their efforts to collect and analyze project data per specified mechanisms and tools. Collaborate with local partner(s) to prepare reports per established reporting schedule.
- Collect information on district government staff capacity needs and technical assistance needs of TSFP implementing structures and monitor capacity building and technical support activities to ensure effective impact.
- Coordinate and oversee working relationships with available project stakeholders and serve as the liaison between stakeholders to mobilize local actors and promote project activities, impact and sustainability.
- Complete project documentation for assigned activities. Assist with identifying information for case studies and reports on promising practices.
- Coordinate and facilitate the implementation of activities and prepare regular movement plan to TSFP distribution points.
- Monitor implementation of the TSFP program quality
- Facilitate training and work closely with Health staff at Health facilities, Health centers, and the district level.
- Organize bi-weekly and monthly overview and reports of TSFP.
- Ensure children discharged from NRU are transferred to TSFP to continue their treatment.
- Adherence to medical and nutritional treatment protocols and procedures for children and infants in TSFP.
- Ensuring availability of TSFP tools at participating health facilities.
- In liaison with the District nutritionist, facilitate quality reports from Health facilities, cross-checking for completeness and accuracy.
- In liaison with the District Nutritionist, facilitate the screening of children for further referrals.
- Participate in capacity-building training, in health education sessions, and ENA/BCC application
- Facilitate follow-up of absentees/defaulters and keep a current record of both children and TSFP staff.
Requirements
- Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Public Health, Nutrition or other related fields
- Minimum of 6 months of work experience in TSFP.
- Experience in participatory action planning and community engagement
- Experience in SFP for children 6-59 months
- Experience of Integrated Management and Prevention of Wasting.
- Knowledge of nutrition digital plat forms.
- Knowledge, training, and experience in the management of MAM.
- Experience monitoring projects and collecting relevant data preferred.
- Experience using MS Windows and MS Office packages (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
How to Apply
About the Company
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Founded in 1943 by the Bishops of the United States, the agency provides assistance to 130 million people in more than 110 countries and territories in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and Eastern Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a Project Officer in Health and Nutrition at an NGO like Catholic Relief Services in Malawi?
Most employers require a bachelor's degree in public health, nutrition, food science, or a related social science field. A master's degree is often preferred for senior roles. Relevant certifications in project management (such as PMP or PRINCE2) and at least 2-3 years of experience in health or nutrition programming strengthen your application.
What does a typical day look like for a Project Officer in this role?
Your day usually involves field visits to monitor nutrition programs in rural communities, coordinating with Ministry of Health staff and local partners, preparing activity reports, and managing project budgets. You will also train community health workers and ensure compliance with donor requirements. Office work in Lilongwe or Blantyre alternates with significant time spent in the field.
How is the work culture different in Malawian NGOs compared to government or private sector jobs?
NGO culture emphasizes community participation, flexibility, and results-based accountability to international donors. Hierarchical structures exist but are less rigid than government; teamwork and adaptability are highly valued. Punctuality is expected, though field realities in rural Malawi sometimes require schedule adjustments.
What career progression opportunities exist for Project Officers in Malawi's health and nutrition sector?
With strong performance, you can advance to Senior Project Officer, then Project Manager or Program Coordinator overseeing multiple projects. Some professionals move into technical advisory roles or transition to UN agencies like UNICEF or WFP. Specializing in grant management or monitoring and evaluation opens additional pathways.
What benefits should I expect when working as a Project Officer for an international NGO in Malawi?
Benefits typically include medical insurance covering you and dependents, annual leave of 20-25 days, and pension or provident fund contributions. Many organizations provide hardship allowances for remote postings, professional development funding, and sometimes housing or transport support. Specific packages vary by employer and funding source.
How do I apply for Project Officer positions, and what do Malawian employers prioritize in candidates?
Apply through organization websites, job portals like MyJobo or LinkedIn, and professional networks; CRS and similar NGOs often advertise on Devex or ReliefWeb. Employers prioritize demonstrated experience with community-based health programs, strong report writing in English, and familiarity with Malawi's health system. Include references from previous supervisors and highlight any experience with USAID, EU, or other major donors.