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 in more than 150 countries, WHO works in various areas including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response. The organization operates globally, focusing on improving health outcomes and ensuring equitable access to healthcare services.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer (Immunization) position is crucial for the implementation of the National Immunization Program aimed at reducing mortality and morbidity from vaccine-preventable diseases (VPD). The incumbent will be responsible for facilitating the execution of immunization activities, providing technical support for the development and monitoring of workplans and budgets, and ensuring the effective management of immunization systems. This role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government ministries and health organizations, to develop integrated strategies for immunization and VPD surveillance. The officer will also engage with the community to raise awareness about VPD and promote vaccine uptake through effective communication strategies and educational materials.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Facilitate the implementation of the National Immunization Program activities, ensuring alignment with national health objectives.
• Provide technical support for the development and monitoring of high-quality workplans and budgets, ensuring that planned activities are executed effectively.
• Offer technical advice and develop strategies and policies to strengthen the country's immunization and VPD surveillance systems.
• Review and analyze immunization coverage and VPD surveillance data, providing recommendations based on identified risks of VPD outbreaks.
• Support the management and coordination of stakeholders and development partners in creating sustainable, multi-sectoral strategies for immunization.
• Strengthen partnerships with academic institutions and professional bodies to enhance the capacity of the health workforce.
• Serve as a technical communication focal point to foster community awareness on VPD and coordinate the development of information, education, and communication materials to increase vaccine demand.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a university degree (bachelor’s or higher) in medicine, public health, epidemiology, or a related field. A master’s degree in public health or international health is desirable. Candidates must possess excellent knowledge of immunization programs, disease burden, and surveillance for vaccine-preventable diseases. Strong analytical skills to interpret immunization program data and make evidence-based recommendations are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate sound knowledge in vaccine management, excellent drafting and communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment while managing time effectively.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a university degree (bachelor’s or higher) in a relevant field such as medicine, public health, or epidemiology. A master’s degree in public health or international health is preferred. WHO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from accredited institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have at least two years of relevant work experience in supporting public health immunization programs at the national level. Experience in VPD surveillance and data management is essential. Desirable experience includes working with national or provincial Ministry of Health and Medical Services, which would provide valuable insights into the local health system and its challenges.

Languages:
Strong written and spoken English is essential, along with proficiency in the local language. This bilingual capability is crucial for effective communication with both stakeholders and the community.

Additional Notes:
The position offers an annual base salary starting at SBD 223,740, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Employees are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. This vacancy may also be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level. Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test or video assessment may be part of the screening process. Candidates must provide scanned copies of their qualifications in advance of an interview. WHO emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The position is a National Professional Officer role, meaning only applications from nationals of the Solomon Islands will be accepted.