Health Programme 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 aims to achieve universal health coverage, protect people from health emergencies, and ensure that everyone can enjoy better health and well-being.

Job Overview:
The Health Programme Officer position is designed to provide technical assistance and operational coordination to the Provincial Health Authorities in Papua New Guinea. The officer will focus on strengthening primary health care through two main pillars: immunization and vaccine-preventable disease surveillance, and integrated primary health care. The role is critical in addressing the persistent burden of communicable diseases in Papua New Guinea, where low routine immunization coverage poses a significant risk for outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. The officer will work closely with various health authorities and partners to enhance health interventions, particularly in rural and remote areas, ensuring effective delivery of health services and improving health outcomes for the population.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of tasks aimed at improving health service delivery. Under Pillar 1, the officer will support Provincial Health Authority (PHA) officers in enhancing vaccination coverage and disease surveillance. This includes analyzing vaccination data, applying national and WHO standards for immunization, convening stakeholders to address gaps in outreach and reporting, and mobilizing technical support to build capacity among health workers. Under Pillar 2, the officer will assist in identifying gaps in primary health care services, supporting integrated planning and implementation, facilitating collaboration among health programs and partners, and promoting consistent standards for service delivery. The officer will also monitor progress, document effective practices, and share lessons learned with relevant stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong organizational, coordination, and time management skills, along with the ability to monitor implementation progress and manage multiple actions simultaneously. They should have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, good written and verbal communication abilities, and the capacity to maintain excellent interpersonal relationships with various stakeholders. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications is essential, as is a demonstrated commitment to improving health systems in Papua New Guinea. Familiarity with the National Department of Health's structure and health information tools is desirable.

Educational Background:
Essential qualifications include a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree or equivalent) or a diploma in Public Health, Nursing, Medicine, Health Management, Social Sciences, or a related discipline from a recognized institution. Candidates with strong academic standing are encouraged to apply. A postgraduate qualification in a relevant health discipline is desirable but not mandatory.

Experience:
Candidates may qualify through two pathways: Emerging Leaders, who have recently completed a bachelor's degree with strong academic standing and demonstrated leadership in health-related activities; or Experienced Practitioners, who have at least three years of relevant work experience in public health or community health, preferably at the provincial level. Both pathways require familiarity with health facilities and partners, as well as basic data reporting tools.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of spoken and written English is essential for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position will be based in various provinces, including the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, East Sepik Province, Madang Province, Southern Highlands Province, Eastern Highlands Province, and the National Capital District, with extensive travel required. The remuneration for this position ranges from PGK 9,000 to 10,000, depending on qualifications and experience. The assignment is expected to last for twelve months, with an initial six-month probation period. 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 adhere to the highest ethical standards. Additionally, candidates must confirm their vaccination status as required by WHO before commencing the assignment.