Program Specialist in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization emphasizes the importance of gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, and it works to ensure that sexual and reproductive health services are accessible to all, particularly vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Program Specialist in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights will play a crucial role in coordinating, implementing, monitoring, and reporting on sexual and reproductive health (SRH) activities aimed at improving maternal, neonatal, and reproductive health outcomes in vulnerable populations in Zulia State, Venezuela. This position is under the supervision of the National Representative of the Venezuela Country Office and the programmatic guidance of the SRH program officer. The specialist will ensure the timely and cost-effective delivery of project results, lead the implementation of new interventions, and align efforts with the UNFPA Country Program. The role requires close collaboration with the Public Health System, UNFPA implementing partners, and other UN organizations to enhance access to SRH services for the most vulnerable groups. The overarching goal is to achieve universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, in line with the UNFPA Strategic Plan 2022-2025, which focuses on ending preventable maternal deaths, unmet needs for family planning, and gender-based violence.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Specialist will be responsible for effective technical and financial management of SRH programmatic implementation. Key duties include formulating recommendations on critical implementation issues, ensuring effective planning, monitoring, and evaluation of SRH interventions, and conducting strategic dialogues with government counterparts and civil society. The specialist will coordinate needs assessments, collect and systematize data on population access to SRH, and promote the diffusion of technical knowledge and good practices. Responsibilities also include supervising the procurement and distribution of SRH supplies, coordinating training for health personnel and communities, developing assistance and referral protocols, and preparing regular progress reports to share with stakeholders. The role may require additional tasks as directed by the representative or supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree, preferably in public health or obstetrics and gynecology. A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in the development and management of Sexual and Reproductive Health programs is required, along with at least 7 years of managerial experience in the Public Health System. The ideal candidate should demonstrate leadership and management skills in multicultural environments, effective communication abilities, and skills for supervision, mentoring, and monitoring. Knowledge of UN System work programs and procedures is desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a Master's degree in a relevant field, such as public health, obstetrics, or gynecology. This advanced degree is essential for understanding the complexities of sexual and reproductive health and rights and for effectively managing related programs.

Experience:
The position requires at least 7 years of relevant experience in the development and management of Sexual and Reproductive Health programs, as well as managerial experience within the Public Health System. Candidates should have a proven track record of leadership in multicultural settings and experience in design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and reporting.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, along with a working knowledge of English. Proficiency in other official UN languages is considered desirable, enhancing communication capabilities within the international context of the role.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, and persons with disabilities. The organization is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, and compensation, regardless of personal characteristics. Selection and appointment may be subject to background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.