National Professional Officer (Communicable and Noncommunicable 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. The organization operates in 194 member states and has a workforce of over 7,000 employees worldwide. WHO's work is guided by the principles of equity and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aiming to leave no one behind in health initiatives. The WHO Country Office in Albania plays a crucial role in coordinating health activities and implementing the European Programme of Work 2020–2025, focusing on better health outcomes for all citizens.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer will be responsible for managing the communicable and noncommunicable diseases programme in Albania. This role requires a multi-sectoral approach to ensure the availability of technical expertise to advise the government on integrated health programmes and initiatives. The incumbent will work closely with national counterparts to assess programme needs and strengthen capacity in disease investigation, surveillance, and control. The position is integral to the WHO's country cooperation strategy, contributing to the overall health goals of the organization and the country. The officer will also promote and strengthen programme activities within their assigned area of responsibility, ensuring effective management and coordination of health initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties, including but not limited to: facilitating the implementation of disease control projects, ensuring the procurement of safe and effective medicines, documenting and disseminating best practices, analyzing data related to communicable and noncommunicable diseases, identifying disease sources, and providing recommendations for risk responses. The officer will monitor the national burden of diseases through health information systems, coordinate the development of information systems, and support the management of operational research and health surveys. Additionally, the officer will engage in community outreach activities, advocate for partnerships, and mobilize resources for disease prevention and control initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in a relevant field such as public health, epidemiology, or statistics. Essential qualifications include a minimum of two years of relevant work experience in communicable or noncommunicable disease control programmes at the national level. Desirable qualifications include experience providing technical services to national health authorities and familiarity with WHO or UN agencies. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and organizational skills, proficiency in computer applications, and the ability to engage in collaborative partnerships.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a bachelor's degree in public health, epidemiology, statistics, or another relevant medical field. Additional training or specialization in communicable and noncommunicable diseases is desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to perform effectively in this role.

Experience:
The position requires at least two years of relevant work experience in the field of communicable or noncommunicable disease control at the national level. Candidates with professional experience providing technical or programme services to national health ministries or partners will be preferred. Experience working with WHO, UN agencies, or health cluster partners is also desirable, as it demonstrates familiarity with international health standards and practices.

Languages:
Essential language skills include expert knowledge of the local language and English. Intermediate knowledge of additional languages such as French, Russian, or German is considered desirable, as it may facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning that only applications from nationals of Albania will be accepted. The remuneration for this position starts at 4,536,000 Albanian Lek annually, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. The role includes 30 days of annual leave. The WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented member states. The organization emphasizes the importance of ethical standards and a safe workplace, with zero tolerance for harassment or abusive conduct. Candidates must confirm their vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking the assignment.