Company Profile

The International Development Division focuses on improving the lives and economic well-being of people in lower and middle-income countries. We command technical expertise in health, agriculture, climate change, food security and governance—as well as in international evaluation. Our multi-layered health portfolio includes policy, health promotion and disease prevention, health finance, and health systems management. In partnership with government clients and local experts, our high-quality programs in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East are known for impact and innovation.

At Abt Associates, we are committed to creating a lasting culture of equity, diversity and inclusion and recognize that in order to achieve full participation, our practices must be free of prejudice, discrimination, and bias that result in inequitable outcomes. We are actively working to advance equity for everyone, and while we still have much work to do, we know that racial and cultural diversity are an asset to our business and the communities where we live and serve. Our ongoing commitment is focused on creating business practices that advance racial and social equity, investments in community impact programs for the benefit of Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC), and expand upon project work related to racial equity and social justice.

Job Description

• Duration: 1 year with a possibility of extension
• Number of vacancies: 2

Abt Associates seeks a qualified Project Assistant / Entomology Assistant, to support the International Health Division in Ghana implementing the USAID-funded President's Malaria Initiative (PMI) AIRS (Africa Indoor Residual Spraying 2) Project.

The USAID-funded PMI AIRS Project supports the PMI, as well as USAID Missions and Bureaus with malaria programs outside the PMI focus countries, in planning and implementing IRS programs with the overall goal of reducing the burden of malaria in Africa by enhancing USAID's ability to implement IRS programs on the ground through cost-effective commodities procurement and logistics systems, access to technical expertise, and implementation of IRS in countries affected by malaria.

Under supervision of the Entomological Coordinator, the Project Assistant/Entomology Assistant is expected to support the PMI AIRS Ghana Operational Research projects and field activities. 

Key Roles and Responsibilities
Duties of the position will include, but are not limited to:

• Supporting one or more Technical Specialists and/or the Project Director in carrying out technical project work.
• Conducting field studies and laboratory research projects in relation to the operational research protocols.
• Ensuring that all data from all field data collection activities are recorded on data entry forms, perform mosquito identifications, and undertake data analysis and prepare progress reports.
• Working closely with projects staff, field technicians and other research assistants assigned to the research.
• Performing other project related duties assigned to him by his supervisor

Required Skills or Experience

3+ Years of experience OR the equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred skills / Prerequisites 

• Bachelor’s Degree and above in Entomology, Biology, Biological Science or other relevant field.
• Three (3) years of relevant professional experience in the implementation of vector control and entomological monitoring activities.
• General experience as field biologist working with research projects in health or natural resource disciplines
• Experience with malaria entomology/applied entomology research methods for laboratory and field studies.
• Ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, adhere to strict protocols, keep accurate records, and comply with company policies.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, self-motivation, adaptability, and a positive attitude
• Strong management and planning skills of project tasks.
• Excellent communication (oral and written) and attention to detail
• Excellent computer skills, computer software programs, including MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• English language fluency
• Experience in international development programs, preferably at USAID-funded programs or other international development experience will be an advantage.