Public Health Associate

Public Health Associate

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

May 28, 2026July 12, 2026CoxsbazarBangladesh
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195
  • Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR works in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members. The organization aims to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. UNHCR is committed to promoting the inclusion of refugees into national health programs and advocating for their access to universal health coverage.

Job Overview:
The Public Health Associate position is crucial for supporting the implementation of public health interventions in low-resource refugee settings, particularly in the context of the Rohingya Refugee Response in Bangladesh. The role involves advancing UNHCR's Global Public Health Strategy and the Global Compact on Refugees, focusing on the integration of refugees into national health programs and advocating for their inclusion in health insurance and social protection schemes. The incumbent will provide technical guidance, oversight, and support for the development of UNHCR's Public Health strategy, ensuring that public health programs meet minimum standards to minimize morbidity and mortality among forcibly displaced persons. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including health authorities and partners, to enhance the effectiveness of public health programming and ensure that refugees have access to essential health services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Public Health Associate will be responsible for a range of duties, including facilitating the transition of UNHCR's engagement in the Public Health Sector, performing inventories and quality checks of medical supplies, supporting pharmacy management processes, analyzing medicine consumption patterns, and reviewing requisitions from implementing partners. The role also involves using digital tools to track pharmaceutical consumption, addressing complaints related to health protection, and ensuring compliance with UNHCR policies and standards. Additionally, the incumbent will assist in the implementation of public health programs, participate in emergency responses, support intersectoral collaboration, and contribute to capacity strengthening of partners. The position requires a proactive approach to risk management and decision-making, ensuring that public health objectives are met effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a Bachelor of Science in Medical Sciences, preferably with a Master's in Public Health or other relevant qualifications. Essential qualifications include demonstrated capacity to support transitions in health service delivery, experience in ensuring complementarity of activities among partners, and the ability to conduct data analysis and reporting. Desirable qualifications include knowledge of UNHCR public health programs and expertise in implementing public health responses in resource-limited settings. The role requires strong analytical skills, effective communication abilities, and a commitment to the principles of humanitarian assistance.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor of Science in Medical Sciences as a minimum qualification. A Master's degree in Public Health or related fields is preferred, as it provides a deeper understanding of public health principles and practices. Candidates should have a solid foundation in medical sciences, which is essential for understanding health systems and public health programming.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or two years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor's degree or higher. Essential experience includes public health programming, understanding health systems, and data collection and analysis. Desirable experience encompasses public health emergency preparedness and response, coordination with stakeholders, and familiarity with health information systems. Candidates should demonstrate a history of working in humanitarian settings and engaging with various partners to achieve public health goals.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, and familiarity with the UN working language of the duty station is required if it is not English. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also necessary. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse populations and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA6 category and is not remote. The target start date for the position is June 1, 202
  • The role is full-time and involves working in a challenging environment, given the humanitarian context of the Rohingya Refugee Response. Candidates should be prepared for the demands of working in a multi-sectoral and coordinated manner, contributing to the overall effectiveness of public health interventions in refugee settings. The recruitment process may include written tests and interviews for shortlisted candidates.
Apply now
Similar Jobs