National Project Specialist (Epidemiologist)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations, established to lead international efforts to defeat hunger. With 194 member states, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide, including South Africa. The organization aims to achieve the 2030 Agenda through its Strategic Framework, which focuses on transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. FAO's mission includes assisting governments in developing policies and programs to enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, reduce hunger and malnutrition, and promote sustainable use of environmental and natural resources. The FAO Country Office in South Africa plays a crucial role in designing and implementing country-specific field programs and liaising with local donors to support FAO initiatives.

Job Overview:
The National Project Specialist will be responsible for coordinating the implementation of the World Bank Funded project titled 'Building a Resilient Future: Strengthening Pandemic Prevention Preparedness and Response through One Health Approach Pandemic' in South Africa. This project aims to enhance national health systems' ability to respond to pandemics through improved surveillance, laboratory systems, and capacity building. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the FAO Representative in South Africa and will collaborate with various technical and operational colleagues within the FAO Representation and regional and global project teams. The role requires a strong focus on epidemiological activities, technical support for disease intelligence, and the development of training curricula for government officers and animal health community workers involved in the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Project Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including leading surveillance and epidemiological activities, providing technical support on disease intelligence, strengthening laboratory surveillance systems, conducting necessary epidemiological analyses, and developing training curricula tailored to the needs of government officers and animal health community workers. The incumbent will also lead training sessions on epidemiology, surveillance, and response strategies in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture. Mentoring government veterinary officers and laboratory personnel, supporting technical monitoring of project outputs and outcomes, participating in technical missions with project partners, and preparing technical reports and briefs for FAO and the Pandemic Fund Secretariat are also key responsibilities. The role requires close collaboration with the National Project Coordinator and other stakeholders to ensure alignment with government priorities and effective project implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Veterinary Science (BVSc) or a related field, and must be registered with the Veterinary Statutory Board. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in animal health or production is required. Additionally, candidates must have a working knowledge of English at level C and must be nationals of South Africa. FAO core competencies include a focus on results, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing for continuous improvement. Technical and functional skills required for this position include a strong understanding of communication and documentation standards, corporate computerized financial systems, and administrative procedures and policies.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in Veterinary Science (BVSc) or a related field, with a focus on epidemiology. Candidates must also be registered with the Veterinary Statutory Board, ensuring that they meet the professional standards required for this role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in animal health or production. This experience should include a strong understanding of South African biosecurity protocols and priorities in the primary animal health system, as well as knowledge of public health principles and experience in pandemic response or similar initiatives. Proficiency in data analysis and the use of project management software is also preferred.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at level C is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. It is important to note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED). The appointment will be subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.