Technical Officer - Health Emergency & Communicable Diseases

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 has a mission 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 strategic objectives include addressing health emergencies, promoting universal health coverage, and enhancing health systems globally. The WHO Country Office in China specifically supports the Chinese government in strengthening national health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and emergency preparedness, aligning with international health regulations and global health initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer position at WHO involves providing critical technical support and advice on health emergency and communicable diseases. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the National Technical Officer on Disease Control and will coordinate with various technical focal points at regional and headquarters levels. The role is pivotal in enhancing national capabilities for emergency preparedness and response, particularly in the context of emerging infectious diseases and public health emergencies. The officer will engage with national authorities and stakeholders to improve health emergency management strategies and contribute to the development of national health policies and plans. This position requires a proactive approach to evidence generation, advocacy, and partnership building to mobilize resources for communicable disease prevention and control.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide technical support for WHO's approach in Emergency Risk Management and International Health Regulations.
• Collaborate with ministries and stakeholders to conduct gap analyses for emergency preparedness.
• Assess national capacities and develop training measures for health emergency preparedness.
• Enhance national capabilities in responding to infectious disease outbreaks.
• Generate evidence and strengthen partnerships for integrated communicable disease control.
• Support the development of sustainable national strategies for communicable disease management.
• Document and disseminate best practices and lessons learned from interventions.
• Identify collaboration opportunities with stakeholders to advance global health initiatives.
• Prepare briefings and presentations for senior WHO representatives. 1
• Perform additional duties as required by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a university degree in medicine, public health, epidemiology, or related health fields. A postgraduate degree in public health or applied epidemiology is desirable. Candidates must have a minimum of two years of relevant work experience in public health programs, particularly in epidemic preparedness and response. Experience working with stakeholders in public health in China is also desirable, along with knowledge of WHO's mandate and experience with UN programs.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess at least a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as medicine, public health, or epidemiology. A postgraduate degree or specialization in public health or related disciplines is preferred. WHO only recognizes higher educational qualifications from accredited institutions listed in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience in supporting public health programs, specifically in epidemic or emergency preparedness and response activities at the provincial or national level. Professional experience in collaborating with public health stakeholders in China on health emergencies and communicable diseases is highly desirable. Familiarity with WHO's goals and experience with UN funds and programs will be advantageous.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of written and spoken English and Chinese is essential for this position. Strong English writing skills are desirable, as the role involves drafting reports, briefings, and other documentation.

Additional Notes:
This is a National Professional Officer position, and only applications from nationals of China will be accepted. The remuneration package includes an annual base salary starting at CNY 620,459, subject to deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Staff members are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women and underrepresented groups. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, and candidates will undergo background verification. The successful candidate must confirm vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking the assignment.