International Consultant - Climate change and DRM Capacity Development

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 has a mission 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. In the Solomon Islands, WHO focuses on enhancing the health sector's capacity to respond to climate change and disaster risk management, ensuring that public health systems are resilient and effective in the face of environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The International Consultant will provide essential technical assistance to the Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) through the World Health Organization. The primary focus of this consultancy is to enhance the capacity of the public health and clinical workforce in managing climate-sensitive health risks (CSHRs) and disaster risk management (DRM) for health. The consultant will play a crucial role in developing training materials and conducting workshops aimed at increasing awareness and skills among healthcare personnel regarding the impacts of climate change on health. This position is vital for strengthening the health sector's response to climate-related diseases and improving overall health resilience in the Solomon Islands. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including the MHMS and educational institutions, to ensure that training programs are effectively integrated into existing health curricula and practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key outputs, including refining and finalizing a training package for healthcare personnel on climate change and health impacts, conducting training sessions for public health and clinical service personnel, and developing materials for learning sessions with the National Health Training and Research Institute. Specific deliverables include updating in-service training materials, conducting training reports, developing a WASH roadmap for healthcare facilities, and providing technical support to the MHMS. The consultant will also be expected to coordinate with WHO and provincial health authorities to implement WASH standards in healthcare settings and produce a final assignment report summarizing achievements and challenges encountered during the consultancy period.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a Master’s degree in public health or a related field, with a desirable post-graduate qualification in Climate Change or Disaster Risk Management. The consultant must possess at least five years of experience at the national level in areas such as Climate Change and Health, Public Health Emergency Preparedness, and Disaster Risk Management. Experience in developing training materials and conducting training sessions is essential, while experience working in the Pacific region and with government agencies in the Solomon Islands is considered an advantage. Proficiency in developing and implementing capacity development programs related to climate change and health is also required, along with strong facilitation, communication, and reporting skills.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in public health or a related field. A post-graduate qualification in Climate Change or Disaster Risk Management is desirable, indicating a strong foundation in both public health and environmental issues.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience at the national level, specifically in Climate Change and Health, Public Health Emergency Preparedness, and Disaster Risk Management. Experience in developing training materials and conducting training is essential, and familiarity with the Pacific region, particularly the Solomon Islands, is advantageous. The consultant should also have experience working with government agencies and international organizations.

Languages:
A high level of written and spoken proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. This proficiency is crucial for effective communication, training delivery, and reporting.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is based onsite at the WHO Country Office in Honiara, Solomon Islands, with an expected travel component to priority provinces for project activities. The contract duration is for 11 months, with a remuneration of USD 6,300 per month. This position is full-time and may involve collaboration with various stakeholders, including government ministries and educational institutions.