The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is currently inviting applications for seven fieldworker positions as part of an important multi-country research initiative aimed at improving adolescent nutrition and health across Sub-Saharan Africa. These roles are linked to the ARISE Network’s ongoing NUTRINT project, which focuses on policies and interventions to combat nutrition-related noncommunicable diseases among young people.
Role and Responsibilities
The appointed fieldworkers will play a crucial role in recruiting and tracking adolescents aged 10 to 24 years, who have been enrolled in the first wave of the study. Their key duties include:
- Conducting follow-up interviews and data collection using standardized survey tools.
- Administering finger-prick tests to measure haemoglobin levels as an indicator of anaemia.
- Measuring height and weight to gather clinical health data.
- Tracing and retaining participants for ongoing study activities.
- Referring participants to appropriate health services when necessary.
- Supporting quality assurance goals set by the project coordinator and data manager.
This role requires candidates to engage directly with the community in Umlazi, ensuring data accuracy and participant wellbeing throughout the study period.
Candidate Requirements
UKZN is looking for applicants who meet the following criteria:
Minimum Qualifications:
- Completion of Grade 12.
- At least one year of experience in administering surveys or research using tools such as REDCap.
- Prior involvement in home- or community-based research.
- Computer literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Residency within wards 79 or 82 of Umlazi.
- A valid driver’s license.
- Certification in Good Clinical Practice (GCP).
Preferred Qualifications:
- A degree in Public Health, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.
- Experience working with adolescent populations.
- Familiarity with making home visits for research or follow-up.
- Skills in basic clinical measurements.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Fluency in both IsiZulu and English.
- Ability to work under pressure and adhere to deadlines.
- Willingness to work weekends and late afternoons when required.
Commitment to Employment Equity
UKZN upholds an Employment Equity Plan aimed at improving representativity within the institution. Preference will be given to applicants from designated groups, ensuring inclusivity and fairness in recruitment.
Application Process
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by completing the official application form available on UKZN’s Vacancies website (www.ukzn.ac.za). Applications must be submitted via email to Tankiso Mahlase at Mahlaset@ukzn.ac.za, quoting the advert reference number CRH/AND004(2025) clearly in the subject line.
The closing date for applications is 24 May 2025. Incomplete applications will not be considered. For further inquiries, prospective applicants may contact the project coordinator via email.
Check also: General Worker Job Opportunities at Enaex Africa
Based within the Centre for Research in Health Systems at UKZN’s School of Nursing and Public Health, the ARISE Network collaborates internationally with institutions such as Heidelberg University, the Technical University of Munich, and Harvard University.
The NUTRINT project, funded by the European Union’s Horizon program, is now entering its second wave of data collection, and requires skilled fieldworkers to work primarily at the USINGA HDSS site in wards 79 and 82 of Umlazi township, Durban.
