National Professional Officer (Environment, Climate Change and Health)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO's work is guided by the principles of equity, inclusiveness, and respect for human rights, aiming to ensure that everyone can attain the highest possible level of health.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer (NPO) will play a crucial role in supporting the development, strengthening, and implementation of policies and programs aimed at enhancing national public health capacity in the areas of Environment, Climate Change, and Health (CCH). This position requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including the WHO Division of Pacific Technical Support, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services of Solomon Islands, and other partners. The NPO will be responsible for mobilizing beneficiaries, facilitating project activities, and ensuring effective stakeholder engagement. The role involves monitoring project timelines, contributing to technical reports, and utilizing WHO guidelines and frameworks to inform project implementation. The NPO will also be expected to analyze data, report findings, and assist in the evaluation of project activities, ensuring alignment with national and global health strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will coordinate the day-to-day operational aspects of the GEF project focused on building resilience in health systems against climate change in the Pacific Islands. Responsibilities include supporting project activities at the national level, analyzing best practices, and reporting findings to relevant officers. The NPO will technically assist in monitoring work plans and budgets, ensuring that project activities are executed efficiently and in accordance with development plans. Regular meetings will be attended to report on country-level activities and facilitate communication with WHO project management and other stakeholders. The NPO will maintain partnerships to enhance collaboration in combating communicable and noncommunicable diseases, collect data on partner activities, and support the development and implementation of health policies and strategies. The role also involves contributing to the drafting of progress reports, analyzing research on Environment, Climate Change, and Health, and assisting in community engagement activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in public health, geography, environmental sciences/management, environmental engineering, or a related field recognized by the International Association of Universities. A qualification in environmental health or climate change is desirable. The WHO only considers higher educational qualifications from accredited institutions listed in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Educational Background:
Essential educational qualifications include a university degree in relevant fields such as public health, environmental sciences, or environmental management. Desirable qualifications may include specialized training in environmental health or climate change, which would enhance the candidate's ability to perform the job effectively.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2 years of experience in a similar or related position, particularly in program or project planning and management roles. Significant experience in environmental health and climate change is essential. Desirable experience includes working with governmental and partner organizations, report writing, and familiarity with GEF-funded projects and their operational requirements.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position, along with intermediate knowledge of Solomon Pidgin, which is beneficial for effective communication within the local context.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning that only applications from nationals of Solomon Islands will be accepted. The remuneration package includes an annual base salary starting at SBD 223,740, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Employees are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. The WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States. Candidates may be required to provide proof of vaccination as part of the recruitment process, and the organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse.