Data Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to mobilizing research, resources, and relationships to ensure that people everywhere can access the opportunities they need to lead full, healthy lives. Established with a mission to improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities, FHI 360 employs over 2,000 experts and operates in more than 50 countries worldwide, focusing on various global health initiatives and programs.

Job Overview:
The Data Specialist position is integral to the Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) project, which is a global health initiative funded by the U.S. Department of State and running from 2019 to 202

• This role specifically supports the Global Health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security (GHS) workplan in the Philippines, which aims to enhance national, subnational, and local capacities for preventing, detecting, and responding to public health emergencies, including pandemic preparedness. The Data Specialist will provide specialized technical leadership and hands-on support to modernize the national surveillance information systems, ensuring that data flows from frontline detection to national decision-making are timely, secure, and actionable. This position will also involve close collaboration with various health departments and technical teams to improve data quality, system functionality, analytics, and usability across multiple surveillance platforms.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Stabilization and Modernization of National Surveillance Information Systems: Lead technical support for restoring and stabilizing Case-Based Surveillance (CBS) and Event-Based Surveillance (EBS) operations following cyber disruptions. Provide oversight for the DHIS2 surveillance environment to ensure operational functionality at all levels. Oversee clean-data restoration protocols to ensure data accuracy and integrity post-cyberattack. Support improvements to PIDSR and EBS workflows for enhanced usability and efficiency.
• Data Integration, Analytics, and Decision-Support Systems: Develop interactive dashboards and analytics platforms that integrate various data streams. Support the integration of laboratory and genomic data with epidemiologic surveillance to enhance response times. Develop predictive analytics and automated alerts to support timely detection and response cycles.
• Data Quality, Governance, and Cybersecurity Compliance: Formulate and enforce data quality standards and validation rules across surveillance platforms. Ensure compliance with national data privacy laws and cybersecurity standards. Assist in defining data specifications and audit-ready documentation for reviews.
• Subnational Capacity Building and Operational Support: Mentor regional and local epidemiology units on data management practices. Support troubleshooting of data submission issues and develop standard operating procedures for data practices.
• Data Management, Systems Design, and Program Support: Provide systems analysis and technical input for surveillance platform enhancements. Assist in the preparation of technical inputs for proposals and reports related to surveillance systems.
• Coordination and Cross-Technical Collaboration: Work closely with various technical teams to ensure data systems support operational responses. Document lessons learned and best practices for knowledge management.
• Other Duties: Perform additional related duties as assigned by the supervisor in support of the EpiC/GHS project.

Required Qualifications:
Demonstrated expertise in database management and cybersecurity awareness, with proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite. Proficiency in at least one software development language and data management software. Adept understanding of development frameworks and data wrangling languages. Demonstrated capacity to deliver training and technical assistance to various stakeholders. Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability in fast-paced environments. High proficiency in English and Tagalog, with knowledge of additional local languages being an advantage.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in Epidemiology, Public Health, or a related field is required, with a Master’s Degree preferred. Formal training in Epidemiology and Surveillance is highly desirable, including courses in Basic Epidemiology and Event-Based Surveillance.

Experience:
5-7 years of progressively responsible experience in epidemiology, infectious disease control programs, and health data analysis. Experience in surveillance system implementation and public health emergency response is essential.

Languages:
High proficiency in English and Tagalog is mandatory, with additional local languages considered advantageous.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Manila, Philippines, and may require domestic travel of at least 25%. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse and harassment in the workplace. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and professional development opportunities.