National Professional Officer (Immunization)

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 over 7,000 employees across more than 150 countries, WHO works in various areas including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response. The organization aims to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer (Immunization) position is crucial for the implementation of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) in Pakistan, specifically in the assigned province of Peshawar. The role involves providing technical support to enhance immunization activities, ensuring the availability of vaccines, and coordinating vaccination campaigns with the Department of Health. The officer will analyze data related to immunization, draft project proposals, and participate in capacity-building programs. This position requires effective communication with national and regional counterparts to align WHO's strategies with local health policies and practices. The officer will also serve as a technical resource for the public regarding immunization and vaccines, ensuring that accurate information is disseminated and that the impact of newly introduced vaccines is evaluated.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide technical support for the implementation of the Expanded Programme on Immunization in the assigned province.
• Strengthen the evaluation and monitoring of immunization activities.
• Advise and communicate national and regional guidance to colleagues and counterparts.
• Coordinate with the Department of Health for planning and organizing vaccination campaigns.
• Ensure the availability of potent vaccines and required equipment for immunization activities.
• Analyze data on immunization and provide feedback on the impact of vaccines in the national immunization schedule.
• Draft project proposals for extending health-care networks.
• Participate in capacity-building programs related to immunization and vaccine development.
• Deliver training and orientation programs for capacity building. 1
• Serve as a technical resource for the public regarding sustainable immunization practices. 1
• Disseminate guidelines for evaluating the impact of vaccines. 1
• Collaborate with the Provincial Department of Health to transition WHO-supported systems to government-supported institutions. 1
• Liaise with national counterparts and development partners to harmonize implementation activities.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a university degree in Medicine, Epidemiology, or Public Health. Desirable qualifications include a postgraduate degree in epidemiology/public health and training in EPI. Candidates should possess knowledge of immunization principles and practices, and the capacity to conduct training effectively. Excellent analytical skills in evaluating vaccine-preventable diseases and EPI-related data are also required, along with the ability to synthesize information and present clear conclusions for decision-making.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a university degree in Medicine, Epidemiology, or Public Health as a minimum requirement. A postgraduate degree in a related field is desirable, along with specific training in the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI).

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience in delivering immunization programs, which includes experience in conducting training programs. Experience working in an international organization or non-governmental organization (NGO) is considered desirable, as it provides a broader perspective on public health initiatives.

Languages:
Essential language skills include expert knowledge of English and the local language. Proficiency in additional languages is considered desirable but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning only applications from nationals of Pakistan will be accepted. The remuneration for this position starts at PKR 9,563,393 annually, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. The role includes 30 days of annual leave. The recruitment process may involve a written test or video assessment, and candidates will need to provide scanned copies of their educational qualifications. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and all candidates must adhere to high ethical standards.