Ebola Response Positions

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF is a global organization that works in some of the world's most challenging environments to reach the most disadvantaged children. Established in 1946, UNICEF operates in 190 countries and territories, focusing on promoting children's rights and ensuring their survival, development, and protection. The organization is committed to equity, aiming to provide all children with the opportunity to thrive without discrimination. UNICEF's mission is to advocate for children's rights and to implement programs that address the needs of the most vulnerable populations, thereby contributing to sustainable growth and stability in nations.

Job Overview:
The position involves supporting the Ebola response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) through a multidisciplinary approach that emphasizes community engagement and health system strengthening. Candidates will be part of a roster of qualified professionals who may be deployed at short notice to assist in emergency operations related to Ebola outbreaks. The role requires expertise in various technical areas, including risk communication, mental health support, water sanitation, community surveillance, gender equality, health expertise, nutrition, and data analysis. The overarching goal is to ensure that communities are informed, engaged, and empowered to adopt protective behaviors during the Ebola response, while also addressing the broader health and social needs of affected populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE): Design and implement RCCE strategies, conduct community assessments, develop culturally appropriate messaging, and establish feedback mechanisms. Strengthen coordination with government and partners, and build capacity of local stakeholders.
• Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support (MHPSS): Deliver MHPSS services, strengthen partner capacity, and maintain referral pathways.
• WASH – Infection Prevention and Control (IPC): Implement WASH and IPC interventions, train health workers, and facilitate coordination across sectors.
• Community-Based Surveillance (CBS): Establish community-based surveillance systems, conduct training, and promote timely identification of suspected cases.
• Gender Specialist: Integrate gender equality into the Ebola response, conduct gender analyses, and advise on gender-responsive approaches.
• Ebola Health Expert: Provide technical leadership on Ebola prevention and case management, support clinical care protocols, and train health workers.
• Nutrition and Specialized Care: Deliver integrated nutrition services, promote safe feeding practices, and manage acute malnutrition.
• Data Analysis: Support evidence-based decision-making through data collection and analysis, produce analytical products, and strengthen data quality assurance processes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess relevant expertise in one of the specified technical areas related to the Ebola response. This includes experience in community engagement, mental health support, WASH, surveillance, gender analysis, health expertise, nutrition, or data analysis. Strong communication skills, the ability to work in a multidisciplinary team, and a commitment to UNICEF's mission and values are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate cultural sensitivity and the ability to adapt interventions to local contexts.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in public health, social sciences, psychology, nutrition, data science, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in the relevant technical areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience in their respective fields, particularly in emergency response or humanitarian settings. Experience working in the DRC or similar contexts is highly desirable, as is familiarity with international health standards and protocols related to Ebola and other infectious diseases.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, as it is the official language of the DRC. Proficiency in English is also desirable. Knowledge of local languages such as Lingala is a plus, as it can enhance community engagement and communication efforts.

Additional Notes:
The assignment will take place in Kinshasa, which is a family duty station. The position may involve short-notice deployments and requires adherence to UN security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security regulations. Volunteers should ensure they are up to date on vaccinations and follow medical advice regarding travel to the DRC. The living conditions in Kinshasa are generally good, with access to essential services and a vibrant international community. However, volunteers should maintain situational awareness and follow security advice to ensure personal safety.