Rapid Response Team (RRT) Lead

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to mobilizing research, resources, and relationships to ensure that individuals everywhere can access the opportunities necessary for leading full and healthy lives. Established with a mission to improve lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions, FHI 360 has grown to employ over 2,000 experts who work across more than 50 countries globally. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, and economic development, and is committed to fostering sustainable change through collaborative partnerships and innovative approaches.

Job Overview:
The Rapid Response Team (RRT) Lead 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, aims to achieve HIV epidemic control and strengthen global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in the Philippines. The RRT Lead will be responsible for leading field-based outbreak detection, investigation, and response operations in designated regions, ensuring that all activities align with national standards and project priorities. This position requires a proactive approach to managing multidisciplinary rapid response teams, enhancing subnational readiness systems, and ensuring effective communication and coordination among various stakeholders, including government entities and local health organizations. The RRT Lead will also oversee the implementation of community-level outbreak response activities and provide technical support to various health units, ensuring timely reporting and adherence to project goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide technical and operational leadership for Community Event-based Surveillance and Response (CESR), ensuring alignment with Department of Health (DOH) priorities and national surveillance policies.
• Coordinate and deploy multidisciplinary Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) for early detection and containment of priority diseases, ensuring compliance with DOH protocols.
• Assist regional and local health units in operationalizing outbreak timelines and support transitions from passive to active surveillance.
• Strengthen laboratory and surveillance linkages to facilitate efficient communication and response actions.
• Work with community health workers and local groups to enhance early warning and reporting systems.
• Lead and mentor Disease Surveillance Officers and other personnel, ensuring readiness through training and drills.
• Oversee the development and implementation of CESR training packages and conduct training sessions for local health responders.
• Document field investigations and represent the project in coordination meetings with health authorities.
• Collaborate with project management teams to develop work plans and reports. 1
• Perform additional duties as assigned, particularly during health emergencies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in public health, epidemiology, or a related field, with a Master’s degree preferred. A solid background in emergency preparedness and response is also highly desirable. Applicants should have at least three years of combined national and international experience in disease surveillance programs and the development of surveillance systems. Training in Epidemiology and Surveillance, as well as Outbreak Response, is preferred. Knowledge of the International Health Regulations (IHR) and practical experience in outbreak control at both national and international levels are essential. Candidates should demonstrate strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills, with proven experience in training and mentoring staff.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in public health, epidemiology, or a related field is required, with a Master’s degree being preferred. Relevant training in emergency preparedness, epidemiology, and outbreak response is also beneficial, as it enhances the candidate's ability to effectively manage public health emergencies and contribute to the overall goals of the EpiC project.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of experience in disease surveillance programs, including both national and international contexts. Candidates should have experience in managing subteams and implementing disease surveillance systems, as well as a demonstrated ability to lead and coordinate rapid response efforts during public health emergencies.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is essential for communication and reporting. Knowledge of Filipino or other local languages is considered an asset, as it can facilitate better engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Manila, Philippines, and may require significant travel (at least 80%) within the country, especially during health emergencies. The role is full-time and may involve working under pressure during public health incidents. FHI 360 is committed to equal opportunity employment and safeguarding practices, ensuring a safe and inclusive work environment for all employees.