Technical 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 over 7,000 employees in more than 150 countries, WHO operates in various regions, including the Eastern Mediterranean Region, where it focuses on health promotion and disease prevention initiatives. WHO's work is guided by its General Programme of Work, which outlines strategic priorities and initiatives to improve health outcomes globally.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer position is integral to the Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control Directorate at WHO. The role focuses on providing technical advice and support to Member States in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, particularly in the area of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and cancer prevention and control. The incumbent will work to raise the priority of NCDs in national development agendas, strengthen national policies for NCD prevention, and promote partnerships to enhance cancer control efforts. This position requires a strategic approach to integrate cancer prevention into broader health policies and to foster collaboration among various stakeholders to achieve WHO's health objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of duties, including:

• Providing technical advice to Member States on cancer prevention and control, particularly in implementing comprehensive national responses to childhood cancer.
• Drafting and revising national cancer control programs and plans, ensuring alignment with national NCD strategies.
• Assessing the regional situation regarding childhood cancer control, collecting data through desk reviews and expert consultations to enhance collaboration and policy development.
• Coordinating networks for information exchange and promoting the adaptation of WHO guidance on childhood cancer control.
• Supporting national capacity building for the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer and facilitating workshops and exchanges of experiences among countries.
• Mentoring consultants involved in regional initiatives related to cancer control.
• Assisting with other technical tasks related to NCDs and cancer prevention as part of the NPH unit's workplan.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Medicine, public health, or related fields relevant to cancer control. An advanced degree in oncology is desirable. Essential qualifications include at least five years of relevant experience in medicine and public health, particularly in cancer control in low- and middle-income countries. Experience within WHO, the UN system, or international health organizations is also desirable. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of the political, social, and health systems in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, as well as technical knowledge in NCD prevention and management.

Educational Background:
The position requires a university degree in Medicine, public health, or a related area directly relevant to cancer control. An advanced university degree in oncology is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience, particularly with international exposure in medicine and public health practice. Experience in cancer control within low- and middle-income countries is essential, along with familiarity with WHO or UN systems and international health organizations, especially in the Eastern Mediterranean Region.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of French and Arabic is desirable, as it would facilitate communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 71,335, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment reflecting 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's Staff Regulations and Rules, and candidates are encouraged to apply online through Stellis. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States. The organization also emphasizes the importance of ethical standards and integrity in its workforce.