Technical Officer - Health Emergency Operations Centre

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. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO's Health Emergencies Programme aims to build the capacity of Member States to manage health emergency risks and coordinate international health responses during crises.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer for the Health Emergency Operations Centre (HEOC) will play a crucial role in managing health emergencies in the South-East Asia Region (SEARO). The incumbent will oversee the operational functions of the SEARO HEOC, ensuring that emergency-affected populations have access to timely and effective health services. This position requires the development and management of infrastructure, plans, and procedures necessary for the smooth operation of the HEOC. The officer will support WHO Country Offices and Member States in establishing and activating their HEOCs, serving as a central coordination hub during emergencies. The role also involves capacity building through training activities and contributing to the development of HEOCs in priority countries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will serve as the HEOC Manager for the SEARO Health Emergency Operations Center, supervising all operational functions. Key responsibilities include developing, updating, and managing necessary infrastructure and information management products for daily operations. During emergencies, the officer will manage the SEARO HEOC and support WHO Country Offices and Member States in activating their HEOCs. The role requires appropriate documentation of emergency response activities, serving as the focal point for HEOC-related communications, and contributing to training activities on Health Emergency Operations Centers. The officer will also organize and participate in internal and external meetings, submit end-of-assignment reports, and deliver comprehensive technical and administrative support across all budget centers.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in health sciences, public health, medicine, or social sciences. Desirable qualifications include training in Emergency Management, health services, or health administration. Essential experience includes at least five years of relevant experience in public health management, coordination, or health emergency management within the UN system, government institutions, or NGOs. Desirable experience includes coordination and external relations in health emergency operations. Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational and IT skills, the ability to multi-task under pressure, and excellent interpersonal skills for building relationships with stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A university degree in health sciences, public health, medicine, or social sciences is essential for this position. Additional training in Emergency Management or health administration is desirable, indicating a well-rounded educational background that supports the responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience, including some international experience in public health management, coordination, or health emergency management. This experience should ideally be within the UN system, government institutions, or NGOs, demonstrating a solid understanding of health emergency operations and coordination.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and Member States.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 71,335, 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 Staff Regulations and may involve mobility to different duty stations. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Candidates must confirm vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking assignments.