The Foundation
We are the largest nonprofit fighting poverty, disease, and inequity around the world. Founded on a simple premise: people everywhere, regardless of identity or circumstances, should have the chance to live healthy, productive lives. We believe our employees should reflect the rich diversity of the global populations we aim to serve.We provide an exceptional benefits package to employees and their families which include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with no premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, foundation-paid retirement contribution, regional holidays, and opportunities to engage in several employee communities. As a workplace, we’re committed to creating an environment for you to thrive both personally and professionally.
The Team
The Polio Team partners with the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), country governments, donors, and technical agencies to drive progress toward eradication. We focus on translating global strategy into effective country-level action—particularly in the most complex and high-risk settings.
Our work is fast-paced, collaborative, and deeply mission-driven. We value clear thinking, strong partnerships, and a shared commitment to solving tough problems in the service of children and communities.
Application Deadline: 7/8/2026
Your Role
We are seeking two Program Officers, Outbreak Response to support the foundation’s efforts to stop Type 2 circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus outbreaks in Africa, with a focus on Nigeria.
In this role, you will manage a portfolio of investments, support the execution of outbreak response strategies, and work closely with partners to strengthen coordination and delivery. More so, tracking progress related to foundation investments in integrated service delivery in high-risk polio areas.
This position is based in Abuja, Nigeria, and reports toPolio SeniorManager, with significant collaboration across the Polio, Immunization, and Nigeria Country Office teams.
What You'll Do
Contribute to the implementation of outbreak response strategies, with a focus on Type 2 circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus in Nigeria
Serve as thefoundation’s polio focal point for high-priority states in northern Nigeria,using data analysis tomaintaina deep understanding of state-level performance, risks, andlocaldynamics, and driving targeted action to improve outcomes.
Support improvements in State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) performance, including coordination, data use, and execution discipline.
Supportanalysis of program performance across partners, grantees, and government entitiesidentifyinggaps, escalating critical issues, and driving rapid problem-solving to improve results.
Help strengthenaccountability at all levels (partners, grantees, and government counterparts),bypromoting clear expectations, supporting follow-up, andidentifyingand communicating risks related to underperformance
Support and strengthen the quality of polio campaigns, with a focus onidentifyingroot causes ofpoor performanceand implementing corrective actions to consistently reach missed children.
Manage a portfolio of grants and contracts, ensuringstrong performancemanagement, clear deliverables, and alignment with program priorities.
Review letters of inquiry and grant proposals; develop clear, concise analyses and funding recommendations that prioritize impact and performance.
Prepare high-quality briefs and syntheses that translate data into clear actions for leadership.
Contribute to a high-performance team culture, with a strong focus on results, ownership, and continuous improvement.
Your Experience
An Advanced degree or equivalent demonstrated experience preferably in public health or international development.
Some experience managing public health or development projects, including field experience in developing countries.
Experience in polio eradication, outbreaks response, vaccine delivery, or health emergencies programs in low and middle-income countriespreferred.
Familiarity withdisease control and polio eradication fields.
Previousexperienceworking withteams in cross-cultural, cross-location settings
Strong written and oral communication skills
Data synthesis, analysis, and presentation skills.
Attention to detail in proofing materials, tracking projects and grants.
Strong program management skills and attention to detail
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a team
Other Attributes
Must be legally authorized to work in the country where this position is based without requiring current or future visa sponsorship.
Ability and willingness to undertake domestic and international travel of up to 30–40% to support business needs.
Hiring Requirements
As part of our standard hiring process for new employees, employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a background check.
Candidate Accommodations
We’re committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring experience for all candidates. If you have a disability or medical condition and need an accommodation at any stage of the application or interview process—such as an ASL interpreter, alternative interview format, or physical accessibility support—we’re happy to help. Please contact HR@gatesfoundation.org with the position number and a brief description of your accommodation needs. Requests will be handled confidentially.
Inclusion Statement
We are dedicated to the belief that all lives have equal value. We strive for a global and cultural workplace that supports ever greater diversity, equity, and inclusion — of voices, ideas, and approaches — and we support this diversity through all our employment practices.
All applicants and employees who are drawn to serve our mission will enjoy equality of opportunity and fair treatment without regard to race, color, age, religion, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and prior protected activity.
Guided by the belief that every life has equal value, the Gates Foundation works to help all people lead healthy, productive lives. In developing countries, we work with partners to create impactful solutions so that people can take charge of their futures and achieve their full potential. In the United States, we aim to ensure that everyone—especially those with the fewest resources—has access to the opportunities needed to succeed in school and life. Based in Seattle, Washington, the foundation is led by CEO Mark Suzman, under the direction of Bill Gates and our governing board.
