National Professional Officer

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 has a mission 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, which includes addressing global health challenges such as infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and health systems strengthening.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer position focuses on strengthening the capacity of the WHO country office in Guinea-Bissau, particularly in the areas of malaria control and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). The officer will work closely with the National Malaria Control Program and other health partners to provide technical assistance and ensure that activities align with established technical guidelines. The role involves collaboration with government entities and health partners to enhance the effectiveness of malaria and NTD control programs, ensuring that interventions are evidence-based and tailored to the country's specific needs. The officer will also facilitate community-based activities and advocate for sustained government support and funding for these health initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide technical assistance to the Government and health partners for the management of national malaria control and NTD programs.
• Engage in technical cooperation activities related to the prevention, control, and elimination of malaria and other infectious diseases.
• Contribute to the development and updating of national guidelines on malaria and NTDs based on country priorities.
• Facilitate the coordination of community-based activities, including disease management and documentation of best practices.
• Strengthen the evidence-based approach in preparing key norms and strategies for vector-borne diseases and NTDs.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to improve the national health information system on malaria and NTDs.
• Develop Public-Private Partnerships for service delivery in malaria and NTD control.
• Support the management of the supply chain for antimalarial drugs and other inputs.
• Advocate for domestic financing for integrated malaria and NTD control activities. 1
• Assist in capacity building for Malaria and NTD programs and other health services. 1
• Perform additional tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a university degree in a health-related science from a recognized institution. A master's degree in communicable diseases, epidemiology, or public health is desirable. Candidates should possess theoretical and practical knowledge of epidemiological methods, information systems, and biostatistics as they relate to vector-borne diseases and NTDs. Proven expertise in preventive public health and epidemiological research is essential, along with the ability to design and develop project interventions. Strong skills in project planning, management, and evaluation, including resource mobilization, are also required. Candidates must demonstrate strong oral and written communication skills, particularly in developing reports and technical documents.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a university degree in a health-related field from an accredited institution. A master's degree in a relevant area such as epidemiology, public health, or communicable diseases is highly desirable and would enhance the candidate's profile for this position.

Experience:
A minimum of 2 years of national experience in epidemiological work, public health, and vector-borne disease control is essential. Experience in research, policy briefs, and data analysis is considered an asset. Candidates should have a background that demonstrates their ability to work effectively in public health settings and contribute to disease control and prevention efforts.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of Portuguese is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of English and French is desirable, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning that only applications from nationals of Guinea-Bissau will be accepted. The remuneration package includes an annual base salary starting at XOF 21,352,000, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. The position offers 30 days of annual leave. Candidates should be aware that a written test and/or an asynchronous video assessment may be part of the selection process. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States. The organization maintains a smoke-free environment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse.