Consultant for HIV Surveillance and Data Systems

Job Posting Organization:
The consultancy is being conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) of Fiji, which is responsible for overseeing public health initiatives in the country. The MHMS aims to enhance health outcomes through effective management of health services and programs. The organization has been actively involved in addressing the HIV epidemic in Fiji, focusing on strengthening surveillance and data systems to inform public health decisions. The MHMS works closely with various stakeholders, including international organizations like WHO and UNAIDS, to implement strategic health initiatives. The organization is committed to improving health services and ensuring that data-driven approaches are utilized to combat health challenges in Fiji.

Job Overview:
The primary purpose of this consultancy is to support the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) in Fiji by enhancing the national systems for HIV, STI, and blood-borne virus (BBV) surveillance and data use. The consultant will provide technical leadership in areas such as epidemiology, surveillance, data integration, and modelling. The goal is to establish a person-centred, case-based surveillance framework that aligns with WHO and UNAIDS standards. This role is crucial for improving the quality and interoperability of data systems related to HIV, STI, and BBV, which will facilitate evidence-driven decision-making at both national and divisional levels. The consultant will also focus on building local capacity for data management and analysis through mentorship and training of national and divisional officers. This consultancy is particularly important given the evolving nature of Fiji's HIV epidemic, which has seen an increase in new infections and late diagnoses. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders to ensure that the surveillance and data systems are harmonized and responsive to the needs of the population.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties aimed at strengthening Fiji's national HIV surveillance and data architecture. Key responsibilities include conducting a rapid assessment of existing data systems, designing an integrated surveillance framework, developing standard operating procedures, and supporting data-sharing mechanisms. Additionally, the consultant will establish case-based reporting tools, develop national HIV cascade models, and support the creation of modelling to estimate resources needed to address the HIV outbreak. The consultant will also mentor the National Data for Impact Officer and provide training for Divisional Surveillance Officers, focusing on data quality and analysis. Furthermore, the consultant will implement national data quality assurance mechanisms, produce analytical outputs, and prepare surveillance reports. Finally, the consultant will develop a sustainability roadmap for maintaining the surveillance systems beyond the consultancy period.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Bachelor's degree in medicine, nursing, public health, epidemiology, biostatistics, data science, or a related field. A postgraduate qualification in epidemiology, public health, health information systems, or biostatistics is desirable. The consultant must possess strong expertise in HIV epidemiology, surveillance, and cascade of care frameworks, as well as experience in modelling HIV epidemics and resource allocation. Knowledge of WHO/UNAIDS monitoring and evaluation standards is essential, along with skills in developing tools and dashboards for decision-making. The ability to train and build capacity in data use and interpretation is also critical.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have at least a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as medicine, nursing, public health, epidemiology, biostatistics, or data science. A postgraduate qualification in a related area is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of public health issues, particularly in relation to HIV and data management.

Experience:
The consultant should have a minimum of 7 years of experience in public health, specifically in epidemiology, data analysis, and modelling. Experience working with the UN system and in the Western Pacific Region is considered an advantage, as it demonstrates familiarity with the regional health context and challenges.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and for reporting purposes. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region may be beneficial but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for eleven months, starting from February 1, 2026, and ending on December 31, 202

• The consultant will be required to provide a medical certificate of fitness for work and will be expected to travel to Fiji. Remuneration for the position falls within Band level B, with a daily wage rate ranging from USD 350 to 49
• Living expenses will be provided based on the daily subsistence allowance for Suva, Fiji. The consultant will work under the supervision of designated public health specialists and team coordinators from WHO.