Community Assistant x2 - Pure Earth

Pure Earth is a dedicated international nonprofit focused on addressing mercury and lead pollution issues in low- and middle-income countries. Since 1999, Pure Earth has executed over 150 projects worldwide, concentrating on research, training, and environmental remediation. By partnering with public, private, and civil society organizations, we combat toxic metal pollution, specifically from lead (Pb) and mercury, through innovative and evidence-based solutions. In Ghana, our efforts have identified over 150 toxic sites, with lead being a significant contaminant.

Job Description

• Duration: 3 Months 
• Location: Northern Ghana (Tolon and Yendi districts) 
• Reports to: Technical Project Officer
• Working relationship with: Technical Program Manager & HQ team.

Pure Earth and CGD are implementing a pilot study focused on assessing the feasibility of replacing contaminated cookware and cosmetics to reduce lead exposure in children. This initiative targets households identified with lead-containing products in Tolon and Yendi districts of Northern Ghana.

Role Overview

The Community Assistants will play a vital role in engaging with local households, facilitating communication between the project team and community members, and supporting various activities related to the pilot study. They will work directly with families to promote awareness of lead exposure and assist in implementing interventions. 

Key Responsibilities

Community Engagement:

• Facilitate recruitment of families to participate in the pilot study based on established criteria.
• Conduct household visits to explain the study aims, procedures, and benefits to potential participants.

Lead Awareness and Education:

• Deliver educational sessions to participating households about the health risks of lead exposure and the importance of replacing contaminated cookware and cosmetics.
• Distribute health and hygiene materials to families, focusing on best practices for maintaining a lead-free home environment.

Support Baseline and Follow-Up Assessments:

• Assist the project team in collecting data during the baseline assessment phase, including documenting existing cookware and cosmetic products.
• Participate in follow-up monitoring visits every two weeks to track adherence to study protocols and gather feedback from families.

Intervention Implementation:

• Aid in distributing lead-free cookware and cosmetics to selected households and ensure proper understanding of usage
• Work closely with families to encourage compliance with study guidelines and maintain regular communication regarding progress and challenges.

Data Collection and Reporting:

• Record observations, household feedback, and any challenges faced during the project implementation, contributing to ongoing assessments of the program's effectiveness.
• Assist in compiling reports on community engagement activities and outcomes.

Required Skills or Experience

Qualifications

• Minimum of a Diploma in Public Health, Social Sciences, Community Development, or a related field.
• Knowledge of lead exposure issues or experience in community health promotion is an advantage.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse community members.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Familiarity with data collection methods and community engagement strategies.
• Fluency in English, Dagbani and local language relevant to the study areas.
• Must reside in the project district (Yendi, Tolon)