Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories. Its mission is to promote the rights of every child, focusing on the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families. UNICEF aims to save lives, defend rights, and help children fulfill their potential, operating with a commitment to equity and inclusion.

Job Overview:
The Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting UNICEF Afghanistan's efforts to strengthen health emergency preparedness and response systems. This position involves conducting assessments, developing plans, and facilitating training to enhance local capacities for managing health emergencies. The consultant will work closely with regional teams, UN agencies, NGOs, and UNICEF staff to ensure effective coordination and implementation of health emergency strategies. The role requires a deep understanding of health emergency management frameworks and the ability to analyze data and present findings to inform decision-making processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct After-Action Reviews (AAR) of 2025 health emergencies to identify lessons learned and gaps in response planning.
• Assess the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response (HEPR) system and develop or revise HEPR plans for zonal offices.
• Facilitate capacity development training for healthcare providers and partner agencies in managing humanitarian emergencies.
• Conduct field visits to priority provinces to evaluate health emergency preparedness and coordination mechanisms.
• Align health emergency data systems with reporting requirements to strengthen evidence-based planning.
• Prepare detailed consultancy plans, analytical reports, and emergency preparedness plans.
• Support the development of standardized documentation processes for health emergencies.
• Engage in inter-agency consultations and coordinate with stakeholders to enhance health emergency response capacity.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of three years of relevant work experience in the health sector, particularly in public health or medical disciplines with management experience.
• Proven experience in planning and coordinating health/humanitarian emergencies.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to present and report data effectively.
• Knowledge of health emergency management frameworks and coordination processes.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Fluency in English is required, and knowledge of a local language is preferred.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s or university degree in a relevant field is required, with additional qualifications in public health or emergency management being advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in the health sector, with a strong emphasis on emergency response and management. Experience in humanitarian settings and familiarity with health emergency frameworks are essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of local languages is considered an asset and is preferred for effective communication within the community and with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy assignment will require travel to various provinces in Afghanistan. The position is not classified as a staff member under UNICEF regulations, and consultants will not receive benefits such as leave entitlements or medical insurance. Compensation will be based on a daily rate, with UNICEF providing a daily subsistence allowance for in-country expenses. Applications must include a cover letter, resume, samples of previous work, and a financial proposal. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the selection process.