Senior Technical Specialist – Zoonotic Diseases

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization that has been dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established over 30 years ago, FHI 360 operates in more than 50 countries and all U.S. states and territories. The organization employs a diverse team of experts across various fields including health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, gender, youth, research, technology, communication, and social marketing. In the Philippines, FHI 360 has been active since 1994, focusing on comprehensive approaches to address health and development challenges through partnerships with the government, civil society, academia, and the private sector. Their initiatives include essential health services such as HIV and epidemic control, health system strengthening, and global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, particularly through the U.S. government’s Global Health Security program.

Job Overview:
The Senior Technical Specialist – Zoonotic Diseases is responsible for providing applied technical leadership and implementation support for STRIDES activities that focus on the prevention, detection, and response to priority zoonotic and emerging infectious diseases. This role emphasizes the operationalization of multisectoral interventions, translating national strategies and technical guidance into practical actions at various levels including regional, local, and facility levels. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders including the Department of Health, Department of Agriculture, and local government units to ensure coherent and effective zoonotic disease interventions. The specialist will focus on field implementation and hands-on technical support rather than national policy formulation, making it crucial to work closely with local counterparts and partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key responsibilities of the Senior Technical Specialist include supporting the implementation of zoonotic disease prevention, detection, and response activities aligned with the STRIDES Philippines workplan. This involves operationalizing multisectoral approaches, strengthening coordination among human health, animal health, and wildlife sectors, and supporting field-based surveillance and response activities. The specialist will provide technical support for zoonotic disease surveillance activities, assist in linking epidemiologic data with laboratory and genomic surveillance, and support biosafety and biosecurity activities in laboratories. Additionally, the role includes supporting outbreak preparedness and response, contributing to capacity-building activities, and ensuring integrated implementation of zoonotic activities through coordination and reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree or its international equivalent in Public Health, Epidemiology, Allied Health, Veterinary Medicine, Medicine, Infectious Diseases, or a related field, with a Master’s degree preferred. Formal training in Field Epidemiology or multisectoral health is also preferred. A minimum of 6 years of experience in health or social development sectors, particularly in project implementation, is required. Candidates should have substantial experience working with government and partners in zoonotic disease detection and surveillance, as well as experience in laboratory-based surveillance for infectious diseases. Experience in health emergency response projects and capacity-building activities is advantageous, along with proficiency in English and Filipino/Tagalog.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as Public Health, Epidemiology, Veterinary Medicine, or related disciplines. A Master’s degree is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and knowledge in the field. Formal training in Field Epidemiology or multisectoral health is considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in health or social development sectors, particularly in project implementation. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in working with government agencies, private sectors, and partners to support zoonotic disease detection and surveillance. Experience in laboratory-based surveillance for infectious diseases and zoonotic diseases is essential, along with a background in health emergency response projects. Previous experience in capacity-building activities for national and subnational counterparts is also beneficial.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Filipino/Tagalog is mandatory, with the ability to read, write, and speak both languages fluently. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an advantage, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in a typical office environment, with the ability to spend long hours looking at a computer screen and performing repetitive tasks. The role may require domestic travel of at least 25%. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and supports professional development and work/life balance.