Technical Officer – Surveillance

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to mobilizing research, resources, and relationships to ensure that individuals everywhere can access the opportunities necessary for leading full and healthy lives. Established with a mission to improve lives in a sustainable way, FHI 360 employs over 2,000 experts and operates in more than 50 countries globally, focusing on various health and development issues.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer – Surveillance will play a crucial role in supporting the operations of the EpiC GHS project by delivering technical assistance in the area of surveillance. This position requires effective coordination and communication with the Department of Health (DOH), implementing partners, and key stakeholders at both local and national levels. The officer will assist in implementing various activities such as assessments, training, capacity strengthening, resource mobilization, and program reviews. Additionally, the role involves developing technical and knowledge products, including reports and presentations, to enhance the project's impact and effectiveness.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Officer will be responsible for several key areas:

• **Surveillance System Strengthening**: Coordinate with the DOH and Local Government Units (LGUs) to enhance local and national surveillance systems, including the development of surveillance information systems and strengthening case- and event-based surveillance.
• **Outbreak Investigation and Response**: Support the DOH and LGUs in conducting outbreak investigations and responses in priority regions, mentoring Epidemiology and Surveillance Units (ESUs) and Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) to improve surveillance activities.
• **Multisectoral Coordination for Zoonotic Diseases**: Facilitate coordination among various stakeholders to enhance the human-animal interface for surveillance and improve responses to zoonotic diseases.
• **Genomic Surveillance**: Standardize and improve genomic surveillance operations by aligning workflows and reporting loops.
• **Capacity Strengthening and Knowledge Transfer**: Deliver capacity-building initiatives for DOH and LGUs, providing operational and technical assistance tailored to local contexts.
• **Technical Documentation and Knowledge Products**: Collaborate with the project team to write reports and develop knowledge-sharing products.
• **Administrative and Operational Support**: Provide logistical support for meetings and maintain project documentation in accordance with requirements.
• **Cross-Country Learning**: Engage with the global GHS surveillance team to ensure harmonization of learning across countries.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate experience in implementing surveillance systems, particularly case- and event-based surveillance. They should possess the ability to collaborate effectively to develop innovative solutions for process bottlenecks in surveillance workflows. Proven experience working with government agencies, especially the Department of Health, is essential for supporting the development and implementation of strategies and plans.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree or its international equivalent in public health, nursing, social sciences, development studies, or related fields is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of health systems and disease surveillance.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 3 years of combined national and international experience working in disease surveillance programs and the development of disease surveillance systems. This experience is vital for ensuring that the Technical Officer can effectively contribute to the project's objectives and collaborate with various stakeholders.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential due to the nature of the work and the need for communication with international partners. Knowledge of local languages may be beneficial for engaging with community stakeholders and local government units.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Manila, Philippines, and may require domestic travel of at least 30%. The expected hiring salary range for this role is PHP 720,000 - 840,000 annually, depending on the applicant's relevant experience and education. FHI 360 is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action, ensuring a non-discriminatory hiring process. The organization also emphasizes safeguarding against abuse and exploitation in its work environments.