
Public Health Programme Specialist (HER Roster)
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) was established on April 7, 1948, as the directing and coordinating authority in global public health within the United Nations system. With a workforce of over 7000 staff members, WHO operates at three levels: global, regional, and country. The organization collaborates with the governments of 194 Member States and various partners to achieve its founding vision of ensuring the highest possible level of health for all people. In the Western Pacific Region, which is home to more than a quarter of the world’s population, WHO has over 600 staff working in 15 country offices and the Regional Office located in Manila, Philippines. This extensive network supports nearly 1.9 billion people across 37 countries and areas in achieving better health outcomes. In Vietnam, WHO has been a member since May 17, 1950, and has played a pivotal role in supporting the Vietnamese health sector since the end of the war. The organization established a country office in Hanoi in 1977 and a sub-office in Ho Chi Minh City in 2003, employing over 50 staff members who work closely with the government and the people of Vietnam to enhance health services and achieve universal health coverage. The mission of WHO in Vietnam is to assist the government in providing high-quality health services that meet the needs and challenges of transitioning to a middle-income status. The United Nations agencies, including WHO, have adopted the Delivering as One principle, committing to the One United Nations initiative in Vietnam since 2006, which aims to streamline and enhance the effectiveness of UN interventions in the country through collaborative strategic planning.
Job Overview:
The Public Health Programme Advisor position is part of the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) initiative, specifically the Humanitarian Emergency Response (HER) Roster, which aims to facilitate the rapid recruitment of qualified UN Volunteers for emergency response assignments. Candidates will be pre-screened based on their qualifications and experience, and those shortlisted may remain in the UNV HER Roster for up to six months, awaiting potential emergency assignments. Inclusion in the roster does not guarantee recruitment, as selection will depend on the occurrence of emergencies and the availability of candidates. This role is crucial for WHO Vietnam's efforts to enhance public health systems, disease prevention, control, and emergency preparedness. The advisor will work closely with the Ministry of Health, public health institutions, development partners, healthcare facilities, and other stakeholders to support evidence-based decision-making, strengthen program coordination, build national capacity, and improve public health outcomes and preparedness for health emergencies. The expected results of this role include enhanced program performance, stronger collaboration among stakeholders, and improved monitoring and reporting of health initiatives.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The Public Health Programme Advisor will undertake a variety of tasks under the direct supervision of the Epidemiologist, including:
Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong set of qualifications, including a demonstrated commitment to public health and volunteerism. They should exhibit professionalism and integrity, effective communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to plan and organize effectively. Teamwork and collaboration are essential, as well as adaptability and flexibility in a dynamic work environment. Analytical and problem-solving skills are crucial, along with respect for diversity and inclusion. A commitment to accountability, creativity, and self-management is also expected from candidates.
Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have a relevant educational background, typically a degree in public health, health sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees such as a Master's in Public Health (MPH) or equivalent qualifications are highly desirable. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of public health principles, practices, and policies, as well as familiarity with health systems and emergency response frameworks.
Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of several years of relevant experience in public health program management, implementation, and evaluation. Experience working in emergency response settings or with international organizations, particularly in the context of health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and emergencies, is highly advantageous. Familiarity with the Vietnamese health system and previous work experience in Vietnam or similar contexts will be considered a strong asset.
Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the organization. Proficiency in Vietnamese is highly desirable, given the local context and the need for effective communication with government counterparts and stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the region may also be beneficial.
Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National UN Volunteer role, and the selected candidate will receive a Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of VND 32,804,37
The World Health Organization (WHO) was established on April 7, 1948, as the directing and coordinating authority in global public health within the United Nations system. With a workforce of over 7000 staff members, WHO operates at three levels: global, regional, and country. The organization collaborates with the governments of 194 Member States and various partners to achieve its founding vision of ensuring the highest possible level of health for all people. In the Western Pacific Region, which is home to more than a quarter of the world’s population, WHO has over 600 staff working in 15 country offices and the Regional Office located in Manila, Philippines. This extensive network supports nearly 1.9 billion people across 37 countries and areas in achieving better health outcomes. In Vietnam, WHO has been a member since May 17, 1950, and has played a pivotal role in supporting the Vietnamese health sector since the end of the war. The organization established a country office in Hanoi in 1977 and a sub-office in Ho Chi Minh City in 2003, employing over 50 staff members who work closely with the government and the people of Vietnam to enhance health services and achieve universal health coverage. The mission of WHO in Vietnam is to assist the government in providing high-quality health services that meet the needs and challenges of transitioning to a middle-income status. The United Nations agencies, including WHO, have adopted the Delivering as One principle, committing to the One United Nations initiative in Vietnam since 2006, which aims to streamline and enhance the effectiveness of UN interventions in the country through collaborative strategic planning.
Job Overview:
The Public Health Programme Advisor position is part of the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) initiative, specifically the Humanitarian Emergency Response (HER) Roster, which aims to facilitate the rapid recruitment of qualified UN Volunteers for emergency response assignments. Candidates will be pre-screened based on their qualifications and experience, and those shortlisted may remain in the UNV HER Roster for up to six months, awaiting potential emergency assignments. Inclusion in the roster does not guarantee recruitment, as selection will depend on the occurrence of emergencies and the availability of candidates. This role is crucial for WHO Vietnam's efforts to enhance public health systems, disease prevention, control, and emergency preparedness. The advisor will work closely with the Ministry of Health, public health institutions, development partners, healthcare facilities, and other stakeholders to support evidence-based decision-making, strengthen program coordination, build national capacity, and improve public health outcomes and preparedness for health emergencies. The expected results of this role include enhanced program performance, stronger collaboration among stakeholders, and improved monitoring and reporting of health initiatives.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The Public Health Programme Advisor will undertake a variety of tasks under the direct supervision of the Epidemiologist, including:
- Supporting the implementation of public health programs and activities aligned with national health priorities and WHO/UN strategic objectives.
- Assisting in the collection, analysis, and reporting of health data and information to facilitate evidence-based decision-making.
- Contributing to disease prevention, health promotion, health emergency preparedness, and community engagement initiatives.
- Monitoring and evaluating program activities, tracking progress, documenting results, and identifying lessons learned.
- Preparing technical reports, briefing notes, presentations, and other program documents.
- Coordinating and communicating with government counterparts, development partners, healthcare institutions, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders.
- Organizing meetings, workshops, training sessions, consultations, and public health events.
- Strengthening health systems through capacity-building, knowledge sharing, and dissemination of best practices.
- Supporting program management functions, including work planning, activity tracking, and administrative coordination as needed. 1
- Performing other related duties as assigned to ensure the effective delivery of health and public health programs. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to improving health outcomes and strengthening public health systems while gaining valuable experience in an international and multidisciplinary environment.
Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong set of qualifications, including a demonstrated commitment to public health and volunteerism. They should exhibit professionalism and integrity, effective communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to plan and organize effectively. Teamwork and collaboration are essential, as well as adaptability and flexibility in a dynamic work environment. Analytical and problem-solving skills are crucial, along with respect for diversity and inclusion. A commitment to accountability, creativity, and self-management is also expected from candidates.
Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have a relevant educational background, typically a degree in public health, health sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees such as a Master's in Public Health (MPH) or equivalent qualifications are highly desirable. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of public health principles, practices, and policies, as well as familiarity with health systems and emergency response frameworks.
Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of several years of relevant experience in public health program management, implementation, and evaluation. Experience working in emergency response settings or with international organizations, particularly in the context of health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and emergencies, is highly advantageous. Familiarity with the Vietnamese health system and previous work experience in Vietnam or similar contexts will be considered a strong asset.
Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the organization. Proficiency in Vietnamese is highly desirable, given the local context and the need for effective communication with government counterparts and stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the region may also be beneficial.
Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National UN Volunteer role, and the selected candidate will receive a Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of VND 32,804,37
- Comprehensive health, life, and malicious acts insurance coverage will be provided. The living conditions in Hanoi are comfortable and secure, with reliable access to essential services. The cost of living is moderate, and the city offers a rich cultural and historical environment, making it an enriching place to live and work. For further information on entitlements and conditions of service, candidates can refer to the UNV website.
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We are not liable for any decisions or actions taken by applicants in response to this job listing. By applying, you agree that all application processes, interviews, and potential job offers are managed exclusively by the listed employer or organization.
Beware of fraudulent job offers. Do not provide sensitive personal information or make any payments to secure a job.