National Professional Officer (Mental Health and Psychosocial Support)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on 7 April 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has more than 7,000 employees worldwide. WHO works with countries to improve health outcomes and achieve Universal Health Coverage, aligning its strategies with the health priorities of Member States and the sustainable development agendas.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer (Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support) position is crucial for assessing and addressing mental health needs within the country. The role involves contributing to the development of mental health service organization plans, focusing on integrating mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) into health and social sectors. The officer will provide technical input to civil society organizations and participate in developing community-based mental health services. Monitoring the integration of mental health into primary health care services is also a key responsibility. The position requires preparing briefing notes and reports on mental health topics, ensuring that the WHO's strategies are effectively implemented at the country level.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assess mental health and psychosocial support needs, resources, and capacities within the country.
• Assist in developing mental health service organization plans, focusing on MHPSS programming.
• Promote a systems-based approach to integrate MHPSS into health and related social sectors, coordinating with relevant agencies.
• Provide technical input to partner civil society organizations on MHPSS activities.
• Participate in the development of community-based mental health services.
• Monitor the integration of mental health into primary health care services.
• Prepare briefing notes, meeting reports, and information products on mental health topics.
• Perform all other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Essential: A first-level university degree in psychology (with an emphasis in Mental Health), Psychology, or Public Health (with an emphasis in Mental Health). Desirable: An advanced university degree (Master's level or above) in Public Health, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field. Specialized training or certification in public health and/or MHPSS in emergency and humanitarian crises is also desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess at least a first-level university degree in psychology or public health, with a focus on mental health. An advanced degree is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise in the field. Specialized training in public health or mental health support during emergencies is also beneficial.

Experience:
Candidates should have more than two years of relevant experience in providing mental health and psychosocial support. Experience in humanitarian or emergency response settings is desirable, as is experience working with WHO, other UN agencies, or recognized humanitarian organizations.

Languages:
Essential: Expert knowledge of English and Arabic. Desirable: Working knowledge of another UN official language is a plus, enhancing communication capabilities within the organization.

Additional Notes:
This position is a National Professional Officer role, meaning only applications from nationals of Israel will be accepted. The remuneration includes an annual base salary starting at ILS 282,290, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Employees are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. The vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level. Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test or video assessment may be part of the screening process. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, ensuring a safe and respectful workplace.