Surveillance Officer

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 aims to reduce morbidity and mortality from vaccine-preventable diseases and ensure equitable access to vaccines for all individuals across the life course.

Job Overview:
The Surveillance Officer position is crucial for coordinating vaccine-preventable disease (VPD) surveillance activities, contributing to Universal Health Coverage and Health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security. The role involves enhancing health outcomes by ensuring that surveillance systems are robust and effective. The officer will work closely with various stakeholders to monitor disease trends, evaluate vaccine impact, and support the introduction of new vaccines. The position requires a strong focus on leadership, research, and policy dialogue to address health outcomes related to VPDs. The officer will also be responsible for ensuring that the surveillance systems align with regional and global standards, thereby contributing to the overall mission of WHO in improving health security and access to vaccines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will have a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: updating and adapting guidelines and materials for VPD surveillance, providing technical support for the Rotavirus Sentinel Surveillance system, ensuring high-quality data collection and timely reporting, and capacity building for healthcare workers. The officer will also oversee VPD surveillance indicators, support vaccine safety surveillance, and assist in the development and evaluation of integrated surveillance for various diseases. Additionally, the role involves resource mobilization, project planning, and proposal development, as well as transferring knowledge to the Ministry of Health and other partners. The officer will be expected to perform other related responsibilities as assigned, ensuring that all activities align with WHO's policies and objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a First University Degree in a health-related science, such as medicine or public health, with a specialization in immunization or vaccine-related areas. A postgraduate training in public health is desirable. The position requires sound knowledge of vaccine-preventable diseases and immunization programs, as well as the ability to apply WHO's policies and guidelines effectively in the country office setting. Strong interpersonal skills, research capabilities, and a commitment to gender equality are also essential qualifications for this role.

Educational Background:
The essential educational requirement for this position is a First University Degree in a health-related field, such as medicine or public health, with a focus on immunization or vaccine-related areas. A postgraduate degree in public health is considered desirable, as it would provide additional expertise and knowledge relevant to the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of progressively responsible professional experience in immunization and vaccine development programs. This experience should include demonstrated professional involvement at the international level, providing support to Member States and evaluating vaccine-preventable diseases and immunization programs. Experience working within international organizations or UN systems is an asset, as is first-hand working experience in a developing nation.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English is mandatory, while good knowledge of Arabic is considered advantageous. Proficiency in additional languages may enhance a candidate's suitability for the position, particularly in a multicultural environment.

Additional Notes:
This position may be used to identify candidates for other similar consultancies at the same level. Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test may be used as part of the screening process. Candidates selected for an interview will need to provide scanned copies of their educational qualifications. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and all candidates must adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards. The position is expected to be full-time, and consultants will work as independent contractors, responsible for their own taxes and contributions.