Technical Officer - Polio Eradication

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 in more than 150 countries, WHO works in various areas including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response. The organization operates globally, focusing on health issues that affect populations worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer for Polio Eradication will play a crucial role in the Department of Polio Eradication and Vaccine-Preventable Diseases (PVD) at WHO. This position involves providing technical guidance and support for the planning and coordination of Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIA) in countries affected by polio. The officer will work closely with Member States and partners to ensure effective responses to polio outbreaks and to strengthen immunization systems. The role requires a deep understanding of public health, particularly in the context of vaccine-preventable diseases, and the ability to analyze and respond to complex health challenges in various geographic areas. The officer will also be responsible for monitoring progress towards polio eradication goals and developing strategies to overcome barriers to immunization coverage.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide technical guidance for the planning and coordination of Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIA) in endemic and outbreak-affected countries.
• Plan and prioritize the allocation of vaccine supplies, funding, and human resources based on a thorough understanding of risks and the polio virus situation.
• Respond effectively to any importation of wild poliovirus or outbreaks of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus in previously polio-free areas.
• Conduct assessments of outbreak status and effectiveness of responses.
• Monitor progress and identify risks in assigned countries or sub-regions.
• Promote activities to enhance Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) surveillance and develop action plans to improve surveillance.
• Develop guidelines and tools for best practices in interrupting poliovirus transmission.
• Analyze polio priority areas to understand root causes of transmission and propose strategies to address these issues.
• Identify training needs and evaluate outbreak response activities to incorporate lessons learned into best practices. 1
• Assist in identifying and responding to other vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks, focusing on measles and diphtheria.

Required Qualifications:

• University degree in medicine, sciences, engineering, international development, or a related discipline.
• An advanced degree (at least at Masters level) in public health, epidemiology, or a related health discipline.
• At least seven years of relevant experience in public health, including developing country settings, with at least four years in disease eradication, immunization, or infectious disease control.
• Significant experience with polio eradication programs and management of large-scale public health programs involving immunization.
• Experience working with international organizations and/or non-governmental organizations is desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree in a relevant field such as medicine, sciences, or international development, along with an advanced degree in public health or epidemiology. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of public health and vaccine-preventable diseases.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in public health, with a strong emphasis on disease eradication and immunization efforts. Candidates should have experience in both national and international contexts, particularly in developing countries. A proven track record in managing public health programs and working with international organizations is highly desirable.

Languages:
Essential: Expert knowledge of English is required. Desirable: Intermediate knowledge of French and Arabic is preferred, as these languages may facilitate communication in various regions and with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 86,027, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living, 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The role is subject to WHO's regulations and policies, including a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of their background, and reasonable accommodations will be provided for persons with disabilities. The successful candidate will be required to confirm vaccination status as per WHO requirements.