UN Volunteer - Health System Recovery

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) Office in the occupied Palestinian territory serves as the principal technical adviser to the Palestinian Ministry of Health. Established to provide guidance and support in strengthening health services, addressing public health issues, and promoting health research, WHO plays a crucial role in the humanitarian Health and Nutrition Cluster. This organization coordinates assistance from international and local partners to the health sector, employing approximately 45 staff members across its offices in the West Bank and Gaza. The team comprises both international and local professionals with expertise in various fields, including medicine and public health nursing. As the leading health agency, WHO collaborates with numerous partners, including United Nations agencies, donors, non-governmental organizations, universities, and the private sector, to support the Palestinian Authority in achieving its national health development goals and ensuring coordinated efforts among all involved organizations.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer will be engaged in supporting health system recovery and transition activities in Gaza, particularly under the supervision of the WHO Health Systems team and in coordination with the WHO Health Emergencies Programme (WHE). The role will focus on conducting health system assessments, enhancing monitoring and evaluation of recovery efforts, and aiding in the planning and implementation of health system recovery initiatives. The volunteer will be expected to contribute to the analysis of health system performance and recovery trends, which will inform evidence-based planning and decision-making. This position is critical in addressing the significant challenges faced by the health system in Gaza due to prolonged conflict and disruptions to health services and infrastructure, necessitating coordinated efforts for recovery and strengthening of the health system.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Supporting health system assessments by identifying recovery needs, service gaps, and system capacity following conflict-related disruptions.
• Assisting in the collection, compilation, and analysis of baseline and post-conflict health system indicators.
• Contributing to the analysis of health system performance and recovery trends to support informed planning and decision-making.
• Supporting the development and implementation of health system recovery and transition plans in coordination with national authorities and partners.
• Identifying priorities for health system strengthening, including service delivery, workforce, infrastructure, and governance functions.
• Drafting technical documents, policy briefs, and recovery plans related to health system strengthening.
• Tracking progress against agreed indicators and reporting on the implementation of recovery initiatives.
• Drafting reports, analytical summaries, and technical documentation related to health system recovery.
• Collaborating with WHO technical units, national authorities, and partner organizations involved in health system strengthening and recovery programs. 1
• Participating in technical working groups and coordination mechanisms related to health system recovery. Additionally, the volunteer is encouraged to engage with communities and promote voluntary action through various activities, such as strengthening knowledge of volunteerism, contributing articles for publications, and assisting with the UNV Buddy Programme.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong commitment to the principles of volunteerism and be able to demonstrate agility, accountability, adaptability, and flexibility in their work. They should have excellent planning and organizing skills, sound judgment, and decision-making abilities. Integrity and professionalism are essential, along with self-management skills and a commitment to continuous learning. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are necessary for effective teamwork and collaboration, as well as cultural sensitivity and inclusiveness in diverse environments.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically including a degree in public health, health systems management, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in health system recovery or emergency response may be advantageous and are often preferred by the organization.

Experience:
The position requires prior experience in health systems assessment, recovery planning, or related fields. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to work in complex environments, particularly in contexts affected by conflict or humanitarian crises. Experience in monitoring and evaluation, as well as familiarity with health system strengthening initiatives, will be beneficial for this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the organization. Knowledge of Arabic is highly desirable, given the local context and the need for effective communication with stakeholders in the Palestinian territory. Additional languages may be considered an asset, depending on the specific needs of the role.

Additional Notes:
This is a remote national UN Volunteer position, meaning that the volunteer will be responsible for securing and maintaining appropriate housing and covering all related living arrangements and expenses. The initial contract duration is six months, with potential extensions based on funding availability, operational requirements, and satisfactory performance. A monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) will be provided to assist with housing, utilities, and living expenses. Furthermore, the UN Volunteer will receive life, health, and permanent disability insurance coverage, including health insurance for up to three eligible dependents, as well as an exit allowance contingent upon the satisfactory completion of service.