Consultant for Rapid Response Training

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. With over 7,000 employees and operations in more than 150 countries, WHO plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to health emergencies, providing technical assistance, and setting global health standards.

Job Overview:
The consultant will support WHO’s Division of Pacific Technical Support (DPS) in enhancing the capacity of Pacific Island Countries (PICs) to manage public health events through the implementation of a rapid response training program. This role is critical in addressing the gaps identified in the response capabilities of EpiNet teams, which are essential for timely investigation and containment of public health threats. The consultant will work closely with national health authorities and EpiNet team leads to adapt and deliver training, ensuring that it is contextually relevant and effective. The position requires a proactive approach to capacity building, with a focus on establishing minimum standards for EpiNet teams and facilitating after-action reviews to capture lessons learned from public health events.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Roll Out RRT/EpiNet Training in Three Pacific Island Countries: Adapt and deliver standardized training, document lessons learned, and produce comprehensive training reports.
• Strengthen and Standardize EpiNet Teams: Conduct a review of EpiNet team structures, identify gaps, and support the development of a minimum standards framework.
• Strengthen Outbreak Response Measures: Provide technical support during outbreak responses, develop outbreak response plans, and conduct after-action reviews. The consultant will also facilitate meetings, draft technical documents, and develop work plans for the EpiNet Technical Working Group.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a university degree in public health, epidemiology, or a related field, along with training in field epidemiology or experience in infectious disease outbreaks. Desirable qualifications include an advanced degree in a relevant field and experience in training or instructional design. The consultant must possess excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and experience in outbreak response and data management.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a university degree in public health, epidemiology, or a related field. An advanced degree (master’s level or above) is desirable, particularly for those with experience in training or instructional design.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of practical experience in disease surveillance and outbreak response is required, with at least one year in an international setting, preferably in the Pacific region or with small island developing states. Experience in gathering, analyzing, and reporting communicable disease data is also essential, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and data visualization tools.

Languages:
Fluency in English is essential for this position. A working knowledge of French is considered an asset, enhancing the consultant's ability to communicate in diverse settings.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 11 months, with remuneration set at BAND B between USD350 and USD499 per day, based on qualifications and experience. The position is primarily remote, with potential travel as needed. Candidates should be aware that WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of any form of tobacco. Additionally, candidates must confirm vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking assignments.