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Nutrition Action Zimbabwe (NAZ) is a registered local Private Voluntary Organisation (PVO) that has operated in Zimbabwe since 2014. The organisation focuses on combating malnutrition through high-quality nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive programming. NAZ is leading a consortium under the Mastercard Project, working alongside BOOST Fellowship and SNV to implement an integrated, locally led systems-strengthening programme. The initiative combines community health, nutrition, climate resilience and youth economic empowerment to improve maternal and child nutrition while creating livelihood opportunities for young people, particularly women aged 18-35 years, across Mudzi, Mutoko and Mbire districts. Position Summary The Nutrition Assistant will provide technical expertise in implementing climate-smart nutrition interventions that improve access to nutritious diets, promote maternal, infant and young child feeding practices, and strengthen coordination across multiple sectors.
Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Harare
- Category: Healthcare
- Closing Date: 2026-07-24
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate nutrition, maternal and child health, and entrepreneurship interventions.
- Lead community nutrition awareness and sensitisation activities.
- Roll out Care Group Methodology, Social Analysis and Action (SAA), Healthy Harvest and community visioning approaches.
- Train Village Health Workers, Care Group Leaders and community resource persons.
- Promote climate-smart agriculture and climate-resilient food production.
- Support production and consumption of locally available nutritious foods.
- Conduct cooking demonstrations and behaviour change communication activities.
- Promote regenerative agriculture, food forests and agroecological production.
- Facilitate community gardens and school food production initiatives.
- Strengthen women’s groups and community participation.
- Support recruitment of programme participants.
- Develop work plans and conduct technical review meetings.
- Produce technical reports and contribute to donor reporting.
- Ensure compliance with NAZ policies, including child protection and safeguarding.
- Preparing weekly, monthly and quarterly reports.
- Monitoring project implementation and analysing nutrition trends.
- Supporting project assessments and documentation of best practices.
- Maintaining programme records and inventories.
- Coordinating logistics for trainings and field visits.
- Supporting procurement and supply management.
- Assisting with budget tracking and financial documentation.
- Maintaining project asset records.
- Supporting audits and ensuring compliance with organisational policies.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition & Dietetics, Public Health Nutrition, Food Science & Technology (community nutrition focus), or Global Health/Maternal & Child Health with nutrition components.
- Additional humanitarian nutrition or emergency response training is an advantage.
- Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience implementing nutrition programmes, preferably in humanitarian or remote settings.
- Experience in mentorship, coaching and capacity building.
- Behaviour Change Communication (BCC) experience.
- Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) experience for nutrition programmes.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and data collection tools.
- Cross-cultural sensitivity and gender awareness.
- Fluency in relevant local languages where applicable.
- Strong communication, negotiation and presentation skills.
- Ability to work independently in remote areas.
- Adaptability, resilience and teamwork.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: jobs.smartrecruiters.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications, certifications, or education needed for a Nutrition Assistant position in Zimbabwe?
Most roles require a Diploma in Nutrition, Public Health, Community Development, or a related field from a recognized institution. Relevant experience working with communities or NGOs in a health-related capacity is highly valued. Candidates are often expected to demonstrate strong communication and community engagement skills.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Nutrition Assistant in Zimbabwe?
Day-to-day tasks typically involve conducting nutrition screening and assessments, providing health and nutrition education to communities, and supporting food demonstrations. You would also be involved in data collection, reporting, and linking beneficiaries with local health services. This often requires significant fieldwork and interaction with community members.
What is the typical work culture and what are the expectations for a Nutrition Assistant in Zimbabwe?
The work culture often emphasizes strong community engagement, teamwork, and adaptability, especially when working in rural or remote areas. Expect to work closely with local leaders and health workers, requiring respect for local customs and a flexible approach to problem-solving. A strong commitment to humanitarian principles and program objectives is essential.
What are the realistic career progression or growth paths for a Nutrition Assistant in Zimbabwe?
With experience and further education, a Nutrition Assistant can progress to roles like Nutrition Officer or Field Coordinator within NGOs. Opportunities may also arise to specialize in specific areas like maternal and child health or emergency nutrition. Continuous learning and demonstrated leadership can open doors to more senior program management roles within the NGO sector.
When applying for a Nutrition Assistant role in Zimbabwe, what do employers typically look for in candidates?
Employers seek candidates with practical experience in community health or nutrition programs, strong communication skills, and a genuine passion for community well-being. Demonstrating knowledge of local health systems, local languages, and the ability to work effectively in diverse community settings are also key. Your application should clearly highlight relevant volunteer or fieldwork experiences.