Health Emergency Officer

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 a workforce of over 7,000 employees, WHO operates in more than 150 countries, working to combat health emergencies, improve health systems, and address health challenges globally. The organization focuses on various health issues, including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and health systems strengthening, ensuring that all people can attain the highest possible level of health.

Job Overview:
The Health Emergency Officer will play a crucial role in the WHO Health Emergencies Programme, which aims to enhance national capabilities in preparedness and response to health emergencies and outbreaks. This position requires collaboration with national authorities and stakeholders to assess health risks, develop strategies, and implement emergency preparedness plans. The officer will provide technical assistance, coordinate emergency health care systems, and represent WHO in inter-agency meetings. The role demands a proactive approach to identifying resource needs, advocating for funding, and ensuring effective monitoring and evaluation of health interventions. The officer will also be responsible for knowledge capture and dissemination of best practices in emergency preparedness and response.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate with technical focal points at regional and headquarters levels to ensure effective implementation of the WHO Health Emergencies Programme.
• Provide technical assistance to national authorities in enhancing preparedness and response capabilities for emerging infectious diseases and health emergencies.
• Conduct gap analyses and develop/revise national strategies and multi-hazard health emergency preparedness and response plans.
• Prepare national risk profiles by assessing and mapping health risks and vulnerable populations.
• Identify resource needs and funding gaps for health-sector risk reduction and advocate for mobilizing resources from partners and donors.
• Support national health authorities in establishing or strengthening emergency health care systems.
• Monitor and evaluate processes and outcomes of response and recovery interventions.
• Capture and disseminate knowledge from policy and field interventions.
• Represent WHO in external forums related to health emergencies and preparedness.

Required Qualifications:
Essential: A university degree (bachelor's) in a relevant field such as epidemiology, public health, or another medical field. Desirable: Training in applied epidemiology. Candidates must demonstrate a strong understanding of health emergency preparedness and response principles, as well as the International Health Regulations (IHR).

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as epidemiology, public health, or a related medical discipline. Additional training in applied epidemiology is desirable and will enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant work experience in public health, specifically in planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating epidemic and emergency preparedness and response activities. Experience in strengthening country capacities and response to emergencies, particularly in developing countries, is essential. Familiarity with WHO's mandate and experience with United Nations funds and programmes are desirable. Some experience should ideally be obtained in an international context.

Languages:
Essential: Expert knowledge of English is required for effective communication and documentation. Desirable: A beginner's knowledge of Arabic is advantageous, as it may facilitate communication with local stakeholders and authorities.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 71,335 annually, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment based on 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 Rules, and candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of their background. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, and candidates with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process. The organization maintains a smoke-free environment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse.