Technical Officer - Non-Communicable Diseases

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. With over 7,000 employees across more than 150 countries, WHO works in various areas including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response. The organization operates in multiple countries, coordinating international efforts to address health emergencies and improve health outcomes globally.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) will play a crucial role in the WHO's Health Emergencies Programme. This position involves providing technical input to the work program focused on NCDs, conducting research on public health topics related to NCDs, and facilitating the development and implementation of health programs and activities. The officer will be responsible for monitoring work plans and budgets, analyzing data on best practices for NCD prevention and control, and conducting capacity-building initiatives. The role also includes serving as a technical resource for NCD-related inquiries, participating in community outreach activities, and collaborating with various stakeholders to implement policies and strategies related to NCD activities. The officer will be expected to prepare and disseminate information, deliver presentations, and ensure quality assurance in contractual engagements with partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide technical input to the work program in the area of Non-Communicable Diseases.
• Undertake research on NCD public health topics to facilitate the development and implementation of NCD health programs and activities.
• Conduct the implementation of a research agenda on NCDs, promoting operational research on cost-effectiveness of community-based interventions for NCDs.
• Monitor work plans and budgets, including resource mobilization for the work program, and follow up on the implementation of planned activities.
• Analyze data on best practices in implementing NCD prevention and control strategies and prepare and disseminate information.
• Conduct capacity building in the area of NCD.
• Serve as a technical resource at the counterpart level concerning NCD in the country(ies); respond to inquiries and provide detailed and technical information concerning related principles, practices, issues, measures, techniques, and procedures.
• Participate in community outreach activities concerning the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of NCD; prepare and deliver oral presentations; compile, prepare, and distribute related informational materials.
• Exchange information with counterparts in technical departments at HQ, Regional and Country Offices, and with donor and development partners (UN and bilateral) on implementation of policies and strategies related to NCD activities. 1
• Review and ensure quality assurance and relevance of contractual engagements with partners and institutions and make recommendations regarding WHO's support. 1
• Perform all other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Essential: A first university degree in Health (medicine or public health) with a specialization in noncommunicable diseases. Desirable: Advanced university degree in Health (medicine or public health) with a specialization in noncommunicable diseases. Skills required include knowledge of country-level situations regarding NCDs, ability to identify issues and formulate recommendations, interpersonal skills, excellent knowledge of health and safety regulations, public speaking techniques, and excellent drafting and communication skills. Commitment to gender equality and teamwork is also essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess at least a first university degree in Health, specifically in medicine or public health, with a specialization in noncommunicable diseases. An advanced degree in the same field is desirable, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex health issues related to NCDs.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of progressively responsible professional experience in non-communicable diseases, focusing on investigation, surveillance, and control. Demonstrated experience at the international level is essential, while firsthand working experience at the country level is desirable, providing practical insights into local health systems and challenges.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to WHO Staff Regulations and Rules. The Director-General retains discretion regarding appointments, including potential modifications to job descriptions. Candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of their current duty station. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization offers a range of benefits, including parental leave, flexible work arrangements, and a smoke-free environment. Candidates must confirm vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking assignments.