Senior Technical Advisor – Zoonotic Diseases and Surveillance

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to mobilizing research, resources, and relationships to ensure that people everywhere can access the opportunities they need to lead full, healthy lives. Established with a mission to improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities, FHI 360 employs over 2,000 experts who work across more than 50 countries globally. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, and economic development, aiming to create sustainable solutions that empower communities and enhance their resilience against challenges.

Job Overview:
The Senior Technical Advisor – Zoonotic Diseases and Surveillance is a pivotal role within the Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) project, which is a global health initiative funded by the U.S. Department of State. This project, running from 2019 to 2027, has a dual focus in the Philippines: achieving HIV epidemic control and strengthening global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security (GHS). The advisor will provide technical leadership and operational support for the design and implementation of activities related to zoonotic disease prevention and integrated surveillance. This role is crucial for translating national strategies into practical systems that enhance detection and response capabilities at the human-animal-environment interface. The advisor will work closely with national counterparts and subnational implementers to ensure that all activities are aligned with laboratory systems, biosafety standards, and emergency response mechanisms, emphasizing practical implementation and sustained capacity strengthening.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide senior-level technical leadership in the design, implementation, and monitoring of EpiC/GHS activities related to zoonotic disease surveillance and early outbreak detection.
• Ensure alignment with national priorities and international standards, leading the application of the 7–1–7 operational framework across activities.
• Support the Department of Health (DOH) and partner agencies in strengthening integrated surveillance systems, including community event-based surveillance and outbreak verification systems.
• Provide on-the-ground technical support to Regional, Provincial, and Local Epidemiology and Surveillance Units, mentoring teams on outbreak detection and reporting workflows.
• Facilitate multi-sectoral coordination among health stakeholders to enhance surveillance and response pathways.
• Provide epidemiologic support to Public Health Emergency Operations Centers during outbreaks and public health emergencies.
• Contribute to the development of SOPs and training materials related to zoonotic disease surveillance and response.
• Work closely with project directors and technical leads to ensure coordinated implementation across project components and support preparation of technical briefs and reports.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Epidemiology, Public Health, or a related field, with a preference for those holding a Medical Degree (MD) or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). A minimum of 9 years of progressively responsible experience in Epidemiology, Surveillance, Zoonotic Disease programs, or outbreak response at national or international levels is required. Experience working with government public health agencies, particularly the Department of Health and Department of Agriculture, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate substantial experience in providing field-based technical assistance and have a strong working knowledge of the 7-1-7 operational framework and outbreak performance metrics. Technical expertise in Zoonotic Disease Surveillance and outbreak response is crucial, along with strong analytical, coordination, and communication skills.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor’s degree in Epidemiology, Public Health, or a related field. A Medical Degree (MD) or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) is preferred, indicating a strong foundation in health sciences and a commitment to public health.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 9 years of relevant experience in Epidemiology, Surveillance, or Zoonotic Disease programs, demonstrating a progressive responsibility in these areas. Experience should include working with public health agencies and providing technical assistance to health systems, particularly in the context of outbreak response and surveillance.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with the ability to read, write, and speak fluently. Knowledge of Filipino/Tagalog is also required, as it is essential for effective communication within the local context. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Manila, Philippines, and may require domestic travel of at least 25%. The role is full-time and involves working in usual office conditions. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse and exploitation in its programs. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and promotes a healthy work/life balance.