National Professional Officer (Malaria, Vector-borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases)

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. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO's work includes addressing global health issues, providing leadership on health matters, shaping the health research agenda, and setting norms and standards for health practices.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer position focuses on the Malaria, Vector-borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases (MTD) program in the Solomon Islands. The primary objective is to strengthen local and national capacities to prevent, detect, and respond to malaria and other vector-borne diseases. The incumbent will be responsible for implementing projects aimed at controlling MTD, which includes procuring safe and effective medicines and technologies. The role requires technical support in documenting best practices, analyzing data related to MTD, and providing recommendations for disease prevention and control measures. The officer will also monitor the national burden of malaria and neglected tropical diseases, coordinate the development of information systems, and support the management of operational research and health surveys. Additionally, the position involves advocating for partnerships and mobilizing resources to enhance disease prevention and control efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties including facilitating the implementation of MTD control projects, providing technical support for data analysis and evaluation, identifying disease sources, and recommending appropriate responses. Responsibilities also include monitoring the national burden of malaria, coordinating the development of information systems, and supporting the management of operational research. The officer will leverage local knowledge to communicate effectively with the public about MTD and propose community outreach activities. Furthermore, the role involves advocating for partnerships to enhance multi-sectoral collaboration and mobilize resources for integrated disease prevention and control.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree (bachelor’s or higher) in medicine, public health, epidemiology, or a related medical field. Desirable qualifications include training or specialization in malaria, vector-borne, and neglected tropical diseases. WHO only considers higher educational qualifications from accredited institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Educational Background:
Essential educational background includes a university degree in relevant fields such as medicine, public health, or epidemiology. Additional desirable training in malaria and neglected tropical diseases is preferred. Candidates must ensure that their educational qualifications are from recognized institutions as per WHO standards.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of relevant work experience in supporting tuberculosis (TB), HIV, and neglected tropical diseases control programs at the national level is essential. Desirable experience includes providing technical services to national health ministries and partners on MTD issues, working with WHO or UN agencies, and experience in writing proposals and technical reports. Experience in malaria and vector-borne diseases is also beneficial, particularly in an international context.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential, along with proficiency in the local language. This bilingual capability is crucial for effective communication and outreach within the community.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning only applications from nationals of the Solomon Islands will be considered. The remuneration package includes an annual base salary starting at SBD 223,740, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. The position offers 30 days of annual leave. Candidates should be aware that a written test or video assessment may be part of the screening process. WHO emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages 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.