Assistant Public Health Officer

Assistant Public Health Officer

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

March 10, 2026April 24, 2026KassalaSudan
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195
  • Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, providing assistance and protection to millions of individuals worldwide. The organization aims to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and it works towards durable solutions for those who are displaced. UNHCR is committed to promoting the inclusion of refugees in national systems and advocating for their rights, with a focus on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Assistant Public Health Officer position is crucial for ensuring that UNHCR's public health programs meet the minimum standards set by UNHCR and global health authorities. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Associate Programme Officer in Kassala, contributing to the implementation of public health initiatives aimed at reducing morbidity and mortality among forcibly displaced persons. The role encompasses a wide range of public health programs, including primary and secondary health care, sexual and reproductive health services, nutrition, and mental health support. The Assistant Public Health Officer will provide guidance and support to partners, ensuring that public health responses are effective and aligned with UNHCR's Global Public Health Strategy and the Global Compact on Refugees. This position requires a strategic approach to public health, focusing on the inclusion of refugees in national health systems and advocating for their access to health services and social protection schemes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Assistant Public Health Officer include supporting the implementation of public health programs in a coordinated manner with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and other humanitarian partners. The incumbent will participate in emergency responses to refugee influxes and disease outbreaks, gather information for assessments, and support program planning and monitoring. Additionally, the role involves assisting with the implementation of UNHCR Health Information Systems, strengthening the capacity of UNHCR and its partners, and ensuring compliance with public health administrative instructions. The Assistant Public Health Officer will also monitor the technical integrity of health care services, engage with communities to ensure their participation in health programming, and support the identification and management of risks related to public health objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Assistant Public Health Officer position must possess a strong background in public health programming, with a solid understanding of health systems and their building blocks. Essential qualifications include experience in data collection and analysis, as well as the ability to draft clear and concise documentation. Desirable qualifications include experience in public health emergency preparedness and response, coordination and stakeholder engagement, and familiarity with health information systems. The role requires a proactive approach to public health challenges and the ability to work collaboratively with various partners to achieve public health goals.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as Medicine, Medical Science, Nursing, Public Health, or Epidemiology. Candidates with a graduate degree or doctorate in these fields may also be considered, particularly if they have relevant experience in public health programming.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant experience for candidates with an undergraduate degree. Candidates with a graduate degree or doctorate may be considered with no prior experience. Essential experience includes public health programming, understanding health systems, and data collection and analysis. Desirable experience includes public health emergency preparedness and response, as well as experience in humanitarian settings.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, and candidates should also be familiar with the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also required. Proficiency in additional languages is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA8 category and is based in Kassala, Sudan. The target start date for the position is April 1, 202
  • The role is not remote and is classified as a non-family position with a residential location. The deadline for applications is March 10, 202
  • The position may involve working in challenging environments, and candidates should be prepared for the associated hardships.
Apply now
Similar Jobs