Immunization and Vaccine Development Specialist

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 primary goal is to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, and it coordinates international efforts to combat diseases and improve health systems globally.

Job Overview:
The Immunization and Vaccine Development Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting countries to enhance their immunization programs and respond effectively to vaccine-preventable diseases. This position involves collaborating with national health authorities and stakeholders to develop and implement the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) plans. The specialist will be responsible for monitoring vaccination campaigns, ensuring the availability of vaccines and necessary equipment, and evaluating the impact of newly introduced vaccines. The role also includes training national vaccinators and contributing to the development of guidelines for vaccine evaluation. The specialist will be expected to adapt to changing duty stations and responsibilities based on the program's technical needs, demonstrating flexibility and responsiveness to the evolving health landscape.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Liaise with national counterparts and stakeholders to develop the Expanded Programme on Immunization plan in assigned countries, assisting Member States in strengthening the evaluation and monitoring of immunization activities.
• Collaborate with the Ministry of Health and other health-related interlocutors to plan and organize vaccination campaigns effectively.
• Monitor the implementation of planned activities, ensuring the availability of potent vaccines and the necessary equipment and injection materials.
• Compile and share information on the impact of newly introduced vaccines in national immunization schedules, submitting project proposals for extending healthcare networks and strengthening existing systems.
• Participate in training and capacity building of national vaccinators in immunization and vaccine-related areas.
• Contribute to the development and dissemination of guidelines for evaluating the impact of newly introduced vaccines in Member States' national immunization schedules.
• Perform all other related duties as assigned, demonstrating adaptability and commitment to the program's objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a first-level university degree in a health-related science, such as medicine or public health, with a specialization in immunization or vaccine-relevant areas. Desirable qualifications include an advanced university degree in a health-related science. Candidates must possess sound knowledge of WHO's policies, practices, guidelines, and procedures, with the ability to apply them effectively in a country office setting. Strong interpersonal skills, excellent knowledge of healthcare systems, and a commitment to gender equality in the workplace are also essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a first-level university degree in a health-related science, such as medicine or public health, with a specialization in immunization or vaccine-related areas. An advanced university degree in a health-related science is desirable, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex health issues.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of progressively responsible professional experience in immunization and vaccine development programs. This experience must include demonstrated professional involvement at the international level, providing support to Member States and evaluating vaccine-preventable diseases and immunization programs. Desirable experience includes firsthand working experience in a developing nation, which can provide valuable insights into the challenges faced in these contexts.

Languages:
Essential language skills include expert knowledge of English and French. Proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the international health community. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive remuneration package, with an annual base salary starting at USD 70,212, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. A variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living at the duty station currently amounts to USD 2,434 per month. Other benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level, and only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted. A written test and/or asynchronous video assessment may be used as part of the screening process. Candidates must provide scanned copies of required degrees and certificates during the interview process. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, ensuring a safe and respectful workplace for all employees.