Epidemiology and Surveillance Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization that focuses on improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a diverse workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization is dedicated to addressing global health challenges, including infectious diseases, through innovative approaches and partnerships. FHI 360 emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and ethical practices in all its operations, ensuring that all personnel are committed to preventing abuse and exploitation in their work environments.

Job Overview:
The STRengthening Infectious disease DEtection Systems (STRIDES) Epidemiology and Surveillance Advisor will play a pivotal role in leading the implementation of epidemiology and surveillance activities under the STRIDES Jordan Activity. This position requires a strong technical background in epidemiology and public health, as the Advisor will provide essential support to government counterparts in developing and enhancing infectious disease detection and surveillance systems. The Advisor will ensure that these systems align with national priorities and adhere to international best practices. Responsibilities include overseeing the daily technical implementation of surveillance-related activities, monitoring progress against established workplans, and ensuring timely delivery of outputs. The Advisor will also contribute to donor reports, annual workplans, and other technical deliverables, while providing thought leadership on epidemiology and surveillance at the country level. Collaboration with project teams and headquarters will be crucial for evaluating program effectiveness and producing technical assessment reports.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Advisor will oversee the day-to-day implementation of epidemiology and surveillance activities, which will involve evaluating complex and rapidly evolving situations. They will demonstrate strong judgment in selecting appropriate methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria for obtaining solutions with minimal supervision. The Advisor will provide overall technical direction and guidance to project staff on epidemiological surveillance, ensuring alignment with the project’s expected outcomes. They will also provide strategic leadership and guidance to the epidemiology and public health surveillance component of the project, coordinating with other technical areas. Networking with key internal and external personnel will be essential, as the Advisor will liaise with the STRIDES Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning team to measure the Activity’s epidemiology and surveillance activities against project indicators. Additionally, the Advisor will contribute to the development of national guidelines and normative policies, work with project management to define and implement technical work plans, and coordinate with technical and programmatic staff to ensure compliance with award requirements. They will also assist in preparing subcontracts and budgets as needed, and contribute to planning and recommendations for implementation, particularly in developing One Health strategies and frameworks. The Advisor will work closely with national counterparts to provide the necessary technical assistance to achieve national objectives related to epidemiologic surveillance strategies and policies for priority emerging infectious diseases, zoonotic diseases, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess in-depth knowledge of epidemiologic research and public health surveillance concepts, practices, and procedures. They should have the ability to manage projects effectively, set realistic priorities, and plan for successful implementation of activities. A general understanding of the external environment and its impact on the industry is essential, including political, legal, environmental, financial, and social influences. Strong diagnostic, analytical, and problem-solving skills are required, along with the ability to communicate effectively, present recommendations, and collaborate with colleagues. The Advisor must also demonstrate strong negotiation skills and the ability to influence others to gain support for ideas or plans of action. Excellent leadership skills are a must, as the Advisor will serve as the in-country lead for epidemiology and surveillance, potentially supervising junior staff members.

Educational Background:
A Master’s Degree or its international equivalent in Epidemiology, Public Health, or other health-related fields is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the Advisor has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively lead epidemiology and surveillance activities.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in epidemiology, surveillance, or a related public health field. They must have a demonstrated track record of designing and evaluating infectious disease detection and surveillance programs. Documented experience leading epidemiology and surveillance activities in Jordan and collaborating with relevant government ministries and partners is crucial. Additionally, candidates should have relevant publications, presentations, technical reports, and experience in developing guidelines, tools, or manuals in the area of epidemiology and surveillance. Strong proficiency in current developments, methodologies, and best practices in the field is also required, along with prior work experience in a non-governmental organization, government agency, or private organization operating in the public health or global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security space.

Languages:
Professional proficiency in both Arabic and English, written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication with local counterparts and stakeholders, as well as for the preparation of reports and documentation in both languages.

Additional Notes:
This job posting summarizes the main duties of the position and does not prescribe or restrict the exact tasks that may be assigned. It should not be construed as a contract of employment, as management reserves the right to review and revise the document at any time. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, committed to preventing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law. The organization is dedicated to safeguarding the welfare of everyone who engages with its programs and requires all personnel to share this commitment. All offers of employment will be subject to appropriate screening checks, including reference, criminal record, and terrorism finance checks. FHI 360 also participates in the Inter-Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme (MDS) and will request information from previous employers regarding any substantiated findings of misconduct. The organization fosters the strength and health of its workforce through a competitive benefits package, professional development opportunities, and policies that support a healthy work/life balance.