Health Operations 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. 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 Health Operations Officer position is critical within WHO's Health Emergencies Programme, focusing on managing health operations during emergencies. The incumbent will be responsible for leading a team to implement response plans, develop technical guidance, and ensure effective communication and resource mobilization. The role requires collaboration with national authorities and partners to enhance health service delivery and manage communicable disease programs. The officer will also monitor health facilities to ensure quality care and support capacity-building initiatives for local staff. This position demands a proactive approach to prevent and control outbreaks, with a strong emphasis on research and data dissemination to inform public health strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage the health operations team and ensure the effective implementation of response plans.
• Develop and disseminate technical guidance and training materials.
• Collaborate with the Ministry of Health (MOH) and partners to implement WHO's prevention and response measures.
• Plan and implement communicable disease programs, addressing outbreak risks and health emergencies.
• Monitor early detection and investigation of outbreaks, ensuring timely data dissemination.
• Oversee rapid response teams for field assessments and early interventions.
• Support health facilities with necessary infrastructure and supplies to prevent disease spread.
• Ensure quality healthcare delivery and routine services during crises.
• Provide training on best practices for local health staff. 1
• Recommend actions for preventing excess morbidity and mortality in affected areas. 1
• Offer technical assistance on vaccination, surveillance, and infection control measures. 1
• Conduct research on health issues affecting the population and recommend actions. 1
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Incident Manager.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include an advanced university degree (Master's level or above) in medicine, public health, epidemiology, or a related field. Specialized training in emergency management and humanitarian response is desirable. Candidates should possess strong leadership skills, the ability to manage multidisciplinary teams, and a comprehensive understanding of public health principles and communicable diseases.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced university degree (Master's level or above) in a relevant field such as medicine, public health, or epidemiology. A first university degree in medicine or public health from an accredited institution is also essential. Specialized training in emergency management and humanitarian response is highly desirable.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of relevant experience at both national and international levels in health operations, particularly in managing outbreaks and health emergencies in low and middle-income countries. Experience in managing human and financial resources is essential, along with relevant work experience in outbreak management and health emergency response. Familiarity with WHO and UN agency operations is desirable, as is experience with non-governmental organizations and health cluster partners.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. A working knowledge of Arabic is desirable, as it will facilitate communication in the local context and enhance collaboration with local partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 86,027 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 may require mobility to different duty stations as part of WHO's international employment conditions. Candidates are expected to adhere to WHO's values and ethical standards, and the organization promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment. WHO has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and candidates must confirm vaccination status as part of the hiring process.