UN Volunteer Officer for Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established in 194

• Its mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable, ensuring that everyone, everywhere can attain the highest level of health. WHO leads global efforts to expand universal health coverage and coordinates the world’s response to health emergencies. The organization operates in multiple countries worldwide, focusing on various health issues, including noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), infectious diseases, and health systems strengthening. WHO employs thousands of individuals across various roles and is committed to using science-based policies and programs to achieve its ambitious Triple Billion targets for global health.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer Officer for Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) will play a crucial role in supporting WHO’s initiatives in Sudan, particularly in integrating NCD services into the national health system. This position is vital for ensuring that individuals living with NCDs receive continuous care, especially during emergencies and in fragile settings. The officer will provide technical support and coordination at the country level, working closely with national health authorities and partners to implement NCD activities. The role involves promoting community engagement in NCD prevention and management, developing national essential NCD services packages, and ensuring that NCD services are included in emergency preparedness and response plans. The officer will also be responsible for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of NCD interventions and contributing to the overall health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security agenda in Sudan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the UN Volunteer Officer for NCDs include:

• Supporting the integration of NCDs into primary, secondary, and tertiary health services, ensuring essential, people-centered, and equity-based NCD care during service disruptions.
• Providing technical assistance to develop a national essential NCD services package aligned with WHO guidelines, including stakeholder engagement and policy dialogue.
• Strengthening the capacity of the NCD workforce by developing clinical guidelines, conducting training needs assessments, and coordinating training and mentorship for health workers.
• Serving as an NCD focal point within Incident Management Support Teams (IMSTs) and contributing to needs assessments and resource mobilization.
• Assisting in integrating NCD services into humanitarian response plans and developing operational tools for continuity of care.
• Strengthening monitoring, reporting, and evaluation by developing a WHO country workplan and integrating NCD indicators into national health information systems.
• Producing regular progress reports and supporting NCD-focused operational reviews and follow-up action plans.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the UN Volunteer Officer position must possess a strong understanding of public health principles, particularly in relation to noncommunicable diseases. They should have experience in health program implementation, particularly in emergency and fragile settings. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, enabling them to work effectively with diverse stakeholders. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to WHO's mission and values, including teamwork, respect for cultural differences, and a results-oriented approach. Familiarity with WHO guidelines and frameworks related to NCDs is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position. Candidates should hold at least a bachelor's degree in public health, medicine, or a related field. A master's degree in public health or a similar discipline is preferred. Additional training or certifications in NCD management, emergency response, or health systems strengthening will be advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2-3 years of professional experience in public health, with a focus on noncommunicable diseases or related areas. Experience working in emergency settings or with international organizations, particularly in the context of health programming, is highly valued. The ability to work in challenging environments and adapt to changing circumstances is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of WHO. Knowledge of Arabic is highly desirable, given the local context in Sudan. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the communities served.

Additional Notes:
This position is categorized as a Category E hardship duty station and is a non-family duty station. The Rest and Recuperation (R&R) cycle for Port Sudan is 4 weeks, and international staff movement is restricted, requiring travel in UN vehicles. The role demands a mature level of cultural awareness and the ability to work in harsh conditions. WHO will arrange volunteer housing, and international UN Volunteers will receive a living allowance to support a basic and safe lifestyle. This allowance is not considered compensation but is intended to enable volunteers to maintain a modest standard of living at the duty station.