Program Manager - Communicable diseases

Follow us@ngobox

About the Organization

Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) and Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) are two serious public health problems on the Indian subcontinent, causing high morbidity and mortality. The governments in the region have launched elimination initiative for both these diseases. The Govt of India (GOI) goal is to eliminate LF and VL, i.e. Reduce annual incidence of the disease to less than threshold levels at the sub district (block) level.

This project aims to contribute to the Government's comprehensive initiative to eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) and Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) from the states of Bihar and Jharkhand.

The key strategies for the elimination of lymphatic filariasis (LF) are: Mass Drug Administration (MDA) and Morbidity Management & Disability Prevention (MMDP). The key strategies for Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) or Kala Azar is Early Case identification & complete treatment and Indoor Residual Spray in all villages reporting any VL cases in last 3 years. 

The strategic goal and primary outcome of the project is to support the Government of Bihar and Government of Jharkhand to attain sustainable elimination of LF and LF in the two states.

Job Description

Program Manager – Communicable Diseases is responsible for ensuring high-quality operational support to the key activities of the VL and LF elimination programs of the government in the district. The key elimination program activities include IRS, ACD, Mass Drug Administration (MDA), Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention (MMDP), and line listing of LF cases. The nature of operational support to be provided includes capacity and skill building; generation, analysis, and use of data for supervision and monitoring; generating and filing reports; participating in pilots and formative studies; supporting governance; engaging key informants and private practitioners; and supporting the organization of program reviews and communication campaigns. S/he works closely with the AD cum SPO- VL & LF, Civil Surgeon, District Vector Borne Disease Control officials, and staff to mitigate field-level problems and ensure smooth implementation, while maintaining appropriate working relationships with staff of partner agencies involved in the LF elimination program.

Job Responsibilities

• Mentor and guide district teams to ensure effective implementation, coordination, and timely corrective actions for Lymphatic Filariasis (LF), Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL), and Malaria programs.
• Support districts in planning, review, and smooth execution of interventions, ensuring alignment with state priorities and national guidelines.
• Facilitate coordination and strategic engagement with the District Magistrate (DM), Civil Surgeon, and other senior district officials for program ownership and administrative support.
• Strengthen convergence and coordination with key line departments such as Education, Panchayati Raj, JEEViKA, WCD, and Urban Development for integrated implementation.
• Mentor teams on data analysis, visualization, progress tracking, and report preparation for evidence-based decision-making.
• Conduct regular district-level and state-level review meetings to monitor performance against indicators and guide necessary corrective measures.
• Review logistics for drugs, diagnostics, insecticides, and equipment, and coordinate with the state for uninterrupted supply and utilization.
• Provide technical support in developing circulars, advisories, training modules, job aids, and communication materials to standardize implementation.
• Lead and facilitate training, orientation, and capacity-building of field teams and district stakeholders to strengthen program delivery.
• Undertake frequent field visits to endemic districts for on-spot review of MDA, IRS, and surveillance activities, and share actionable recommendations with the state.
• Collaborate with departments to institutionalize LF- and VL-related activities within existing schemes and annual action plans.
• Support in preparation of Programme Implementation Plans (PIPs), offer post-NPCC comments, and advocate for inclusion of innovative and convergence-driven strategies.
• Facilitate issuance of government orders, circulars, and departmental communications to enhance coordination and accountability.
• Identify operational and programmatic gaps, provide timely feedback, and drive on-ground corrective actions.
• Promote joint reviews, monitoring visits, and data-sharing mechanisms between departments for improved convergence and ownership.
• Lead thematic interventions, ensuring that activities are strategically aligned with program goals and partner expectations.
• Support innovation and adoption of best practices for improved outcomes across districts.
• Document case studies, success stories, and key learnings for dissemination and continuous program improvement.
• Liaise with state and district officials, partners, and stakeholders to ensure collaborative and result-oriented implementation.
• Any other work assigned by CTM/PD from time to time.

Education Qualification/Required Skills & Experience

Essential:

• Master’s degree in science / Social Work / Social Science / Public Health At least 5-7 years of health program experience with 5-7 years program experience

Preferred:

• Demonstrated experience of leading field teams
• Experience in working with government programs and dealing with government officials

Skills & Competencies

• Proven ability to identify problem areas, analyze, plan, innovate and execute ideas, as well as impart knowledge and skills
• Demonstrated ability to mobilize Government program staff
• Demonstrated ability and judgement to identify programmatic issues that require immediate attention, prioritize and take appropriate and timely action
• Ability to travel extensively to block and villages and gather first hand information from community
• Excellent negotiation skills
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills
• Demonstrated learning agility, pro-activeness and openness to embrace new technologies at work
• Demonstrated ability to manage a diverse team
• Ability to function effectively as a team member and respect diversity in a team
• Excellent knowledge of local language (Hindi)
• Accountability and Managing Performance

Candidates interested in the role are requested to follow the steps below:

Step 1: Submit your application by filling out the Microsoft form using the link below:
🔗 Application form link – https://forms.office.com/r/Dt90Lfc8sE

Step 2: Email your updated resume (in Word or PDF format) to:
📩 recruitments@gandhifellowship.org

Step 3 : Please ensure that the subject line of your Email reads: Program Manager – Communicable disease.

Note: All the above steps are mandatory for your application to be considered

📅 Last Date to Apply: 13^th November 2025

Tags Jobs in Jharkhand Jobs in Program Management Jobs in Communication