Vector Control and Prevention Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The Clinton Health Access Initiative, Inc. (CHAI) is a global health organization founded in 2002, dedicated to saving lives and reducing the burden of disease in low- and middle-income countries. CHAI operates in over 40 countries and focuses on strengthening health systems by working closely with governments and the private sector. The organization initially responded to the HIV/AIDS epidemic but has since expanded its focus to include a wide range of health issues, including infectious diseases like COVID-19, malaria, tuberculosis, and hepatitis, as well as non-communicable diseases such as cancer and diabetes. CHAI emphasizes sustainable impact at scale, ensuring that programs are designed to be nationally scalable and that learnings are shared globally. The organization values diversity and inclusion, recognizing that a diverse workforce enhances its mission and effectiveness.

Job Overview:
The Vector Control and Prevention Advisor will oversee CHAI's vector control and prevention initiatives in Central America, focusing on malaria and dengue. This role involves providing strategic and technical support to government programs, optimizing vector control interventions, and introducing innovative tools such as Wolbachia and spatial emanators. The advisor will collaborate with various regional stakeholders, including PAHO, IDB, CDC, and academic partners, to ensure effective implementation of vector control strategies. The ideal candidate will possess strong organizational and project management skills, be able to translate complex scientific concepts into actionable recommendations, and adapt to changing priorities. Excellent communication skills and cultural sensitivity are essential, given the diverse stakeholders involved in this work.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Serve as a trusted adviser to national malaria and dengue programs on vector control and entomology issues.
• Ensure the technical quality of all CHAI Vector Control and Prevention work in the LAC region.
• Co-manage regional Vector Control and Prevention associates, providing training and mentoring to ensure high-quality assistance to countries.
• Support national programs in developing strategic plans, policies, technical guidelines, and operational plans for vector control.
• Assist countries in introducing and scaling new vector control technologies, including regulatory pathways and national operational plans.
• Analyze entomological and vector control data to support evidence-based decision-making.
• Compile and disseminate lessons learned from projects through presentations, reports, and publications.
• Collaborate with regional stakeholders and support funding proposal development for resource gaps in vector control.
• Coordinate with other CHAI colleagues and teams to ensure cohesive efforts across regions.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree with a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience, or a bachelor’s degree with at least 9 years of relevant experience in infectious disease prevention or entomology.
• Acceptable fields of study include public health, entomology, epidemiology, biology, medicine, or other health-related disciplines.
• Experience working remotely with a decentralized team is preferred.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with attention to detail and organizational abilities.
• Ability to remain effective and calm in high-pressure situations and work independently or as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including report writing and presentations.
• Strong interpersonal skills and capacity for diplomatic engagement with policymakers and partners.
• Willingness to work in higher-risk, developing settings for extended periods.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field with at least 7 years of experience, or a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 9 years of experience in projects related to infectious disease prevention or entomology. Fields of study that are acceptable include public health, entomology, epidemiology, biology, medicine, and other health-related disciplines. A PhD may reduce the required years of experience.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience for candidates with a Master’s degree or at least 9 years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Experience should be related to infectious disease prevention or entomology, with a preference for candidates who have worked in decentralized teams and have a strong understanding of global infectious disease issues, particularly malaria and dengue.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with reading, writing, and speaking proficiency. Additionally, fluency in French is considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate with diverse stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Panama City, Panama, and requires frequent travel across the region, including to remote areas with limited infrastructure and health services. The role may involve working in higher-risk, developing settings for extended periods, and candidates should be prepared for up to 60% travel. CHAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.