Technical Officer for Noncommunicable Diseases

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 194 member states, with a workforce of over 7,000 employees worldwide. WHO's work is guided by the principles of equity and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on leaving no one behind in health initiatives. The organization is committed to providing global health leadership, shaping health research agendas, setting norms and standards, and monitoring health trends.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer for Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) will play a crucial role in providing technical, organizational, and coordination support for the prevention and control of NCDs in Ukraine. This position emphasizes addressing NCD-related risk factors and services, particularly in alignment with EU standards. The officer will work closely with the NCD Management Unit to implement WHO's work plan, collaborate with national authorities, and support various health initiatives including tobacco control, nutrition, and diabetes management. The role requires a proactive approach to facilitate the development and evaluation of strategies and policies aimed at reducing the burden of NCDs in the country, especially among conflict-affected populations. The officer will also be responsible for documenting program experiences and ensuring effective communication among stakeholders to enhance the implementation of health programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties including: supporting the NCD Management Unit in delivering technical assistance to the Ministry of Health and other national partners; developing and evaluating strategies for NCD prevention and control; updating and adapting training materials; conducting training needs assessments; serving as a focal point for operational support; documenting program experiences and outcomes; assisting in the application of health policy tools; supporting the development of policies for trans fat elimination and salt reduction; promoting physical activity; facilitating information flow between WHO units; preparing reports and updates; and coordinating with partners and stakeholders in NCD prevention efforts. The officer will also monitor the implementation of collaborative agreements and provide assistance in other areas as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree at the Bachelor's level or equivalent in medicine, public health, or a related field. A Master's degree or post-graduate training in a relevant NCD-related area is desirable. Essential qualifications include expert knowledge of English and Ukrainian, with intermediate knowledge of another WHO language being advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate strong skills in teamwork, communication, and building partnerships, as well as a proactive approach to problem-solving and process improvement.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor's degree in medicine, public health, or a related field as a minimum educational qualification. A Master's degree or equivalent post-graduate training in a relevant area related to NCDs is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of public health issues.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least one year of professional experience in the field of NCDs, including work related to NCD risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diets, and physical inactivity. Desirable experience includes working with public health initiatives, particularly within WHO, UN agencies, or international organizations, which would provide valuable insights into global health practices and policies.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English and Ukrainian is essential for this position. Knowledge of an additional WHO language is considered an asset, enhancing communication capabilities within the international health community.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning that only applications from nationals of Ukraine will be accepted. The remuneration for this position starts at an annual base salary of USD 33,420, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. The role includes 30 days of annual leave and may involve a written test or video assessment as part of the selection process. Candidates are required to provide scanned copies of their educational qualifications during the interview process. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented member states. The organization maintains a smoke-free environment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse.