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's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With a workforce of over 7,000 employees, WHO operates in more than 150 countries, focusing on global health issues and providing leadership on health matters. The organization aims to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, emphasizing the importance of health as a fundamental human right. WHO's work is guided by the principles of equity and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in addressing non-communicable diseases and promoting health in all policies. The organization collaborates with national authorities and international partners to implement health strategies and improve health outcomes across the globe.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer position is designed to provide technical and managerial expertise to develop, strengthen, and implement policies and programs aimed at enhancing national public health capacity in Universal Health Coverage and Health Promotion. The incumbent will focus on reducing the burden of preventable diseases and injuries driven by various determinants of health, including environmental, social, and economic factors. This role involves working with diverse populations, including refugees and migrants, and requires a coordinated, intersectoral approach in alignment with the country cooperation strategy and WHO's global commitments. The position entails analyzing public health topics, supporting the development of national plans for disease prevention and control, and promoting health in all policies. The officer will also engage in capacity building, community outreach, and collaboration with national and international partners to improve health systems and outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: maintaining partnerships and networks to enhance collaboration in combating communicable and non-communicable diseases; conducting research and analysis on public health topics to support national teams; providing technical assistance in monitoring work plans and budgets; promoting health in all policies and developing healthy cities; analyzing best practices in public health and reporting findings; participating in capacity building initiatives; utilizing cultural insights for community outreach; drafting public health reports; collaborating with partners to improve disease surveillance and evaluation; assisting the ministry of health in policy development; and contributing to risk communication and community engagement efforts during public health emergencies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree (bachelor’s) in a relevant field such as health, public health, or social sciences. Additionally, training in epidemiology or social epidemiology is essential, along with a solid understanding of health promotion theories and practices. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of policies, strategies, and guidelines in public health, particularly regarding health promotion and determinants of health. Skills in community engagement, multisectoral action, and the prevention of communicable disease outbreaks are also required. Excellent oral and written communication skills, the ability to maintain relationships with stakeholders, and proficiency in research and analysis are crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
A university degree (bachelor’s) in a relevant field such as health, public health, or social sciences is essential. Candidates with additional training in epidemiology or social epidemiology will have an advantage. A good understanding of health promotion theories and practices is also required, as well as knowledge of the determinants of health.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of two years of relevant work experience in public health and disease control program management. Experience working with national or international organizations involved in health promotion, public health, or development is essential. Desirable experience includes planning, implementing, and monitoring major disease control programs, as well as familiarity with the United Nations or international non-governmental organizations.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English and the local language is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of additional languages such as Russian, German, or French is desirable, as it may enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning that only applications from nationals of North Macedonia will be accepted. The remuneration for this position starts at EUR 54,108 annually, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. The role includes 30 days of annual leave. Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test or video assessment may be part of the screening process. WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization adheres to strict ethical standards and has a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment and abuse.