International Consultant - Oral Health Surveillance

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 and operations in more than 150 countries, WHO works to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health. The organization focuses on various health issues, including communicable diseases, noncommunicable diseases, health systems, and emergency response, among others. WHO's commitment to global health is reflected in its strategic plans and initiatives, such as the Global Oral Health Strategy, which aims to improve oral health worldwide, particularly in underserved regions like the Pacific Islands.

Job Overview:
The consultancy aims to develop national oral health policies for Pacific Island Countries (PICs), integrate oral health into primary health care and noncommunicable disease (NCD) programs, and establish oral health indicators and monitoring systems in alignment with WHO’s Global Oral Health Strategy. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including governments and health organizations, to enhance oral health services and policies in the region. The role involves significant collaboration and coordination to ensure that oral health is prioritized within broader health initiatives, particularly in the context of NCD prevention and management. The consultant will also be responsible for leveraging existing data sources to inform policy development and improve accountability in oral health initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with several key objectives, including: 1) Developing national oral health policies by drafting or updating national oral health plans and integrating them into NCD strategies across at least three targeted countries. 2) Supporting countries in leveraging existing data sources to review and analyze oral health surveillance data, identifying gaps for service improvement. 3) Assisting PICs in enhancing monitoring and accountability processes for oral health initiatives through technical meetings with WHO and other partners. 4) Integrating oral health into NCD prevention programs by embedding oral health messages into tobacco control, alcohol harm-reduction, and sugar-reduction policies. 5) Expanding Universal Health Coverage (UHC) benefit packages to include essential oral health services and promoting an essential package of oral health interventions. 6) Building capacity among health and community workforce for essential oral health interventions, ensuring that oral health is integrated into broader health strategies. 7) Delivering technical assistance to promote oral health in schools, workplaces, and communities, ensuring comprehensive integration across all objectives.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a university degree in dentistry or a related field as essential qualifications. An advanced university degree (master's) in public health or a related field is desirable. The consultant should possess strong technical skills and knowledge in clinical oral health and public health interventions, particularly in resource-limited settings. The ability to work effectively in diverse teams and adapt to various educational and cultural backgrounds is crucial. Additionally, the consultant should demonstrate high personal standards and integrity in their professional conduct.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a university degree in dentistry or a related field. An advanced degree, such as a master's in public health or a related field, is preferred but not mandatory. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in health sciences, particularly in areas related to oral health and public health policy.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of experience in clinical oral health is essential for this position. Candidates with demonstrated professional experience in public health, particularly in working with ministries of health, WHO/UN agencies, and regional organizations, will be preferred. Relevant experience in the Pacific Island Countries or similar contexts is highly desirable, as it will enhance the consultant's ability to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities in these regions.

Languages:
Fluency in the English language is essential for this role, as all communications and documentation will be conducted in English. While not mandatory, knowledge of additional languages spoken in the Pacific region may be considered an asset, as it could facilitate better engagement with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based, allowing the consultant to work remotely in support of activities coordinated by the WHO Division of Pacific Technical Support. The expected duration of the contract is between 6 to 11 months, starting from September 1, 2026, subject to the completion of recruitment and selection formalities. The remuneration for this international consultancy is estimated to be in the range of USD350 to USD499 per day, depending on qualifications and experience. Travel may be required if necessary, and travel requirements will be determined according to program needs and WHO travel policies. Candidates should be aware that WHO has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and all members of the workforce are expected to uphold the highest ethical and professional standards.