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, where it focuses on health promotion and disease prevention. The organization aims to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, addressing both communicable and noncommunicable diseases.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer position is pivotal in leading and strategically directing the newly established Department of Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control (HPD) within WHO. The incumbent will oversee regional actions aimed at preventing and managing both communicable and noncommunicable diseases, promoting mental health, and addressing the social, economic, and commercial determinants of health. This role involves guiding Member States in developing and implementing evidence-informed policies and interventions related to mental health and substance use disorders. The officer will also work to strengthen WHO's collective impact in advancing health promotion and disease control priorities across the Eastern Mediterranean Region, ensuring alignment with WHO's General Programme of Work and the Regional Director's Vision.

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

• Supporting Member States in developing and implementing evidence-informed policies, legislations, national strategies, and action plans related to mental health and substance use disorders.
• Providing technical support and advice to civil society organizations on public health issues associated with mental health conditions and substance use disorders, including suicide prevention.
• Strengthening coordination and international collaboration for effective implementation of WHO EMRO Flagship initiatives.
• Assisting countries in implementing the regional action plan on mental health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support in emergencies for 2024-203
• Drafting project proposals for regional, national, and global donors to enhance health system responses.
• Fostering collaboration with other EMRO programmes to enhance mental health and substance use initiatives.
• Supporting Member States in implementing global action plans related to dementia and suicide prevention.
• Establishing or strengthening monitoring and surveillance systems for mental health and substance use disorders.
• Preparing technical documents, briefing notes, and information products related to the incumbent's responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a Master's degree in psychiatry or clinical psychology from a recognized institution. Desirable qualifications include a doctorate and certification in mental health and substance use disorder/addiction medicine. The candidate must possess expert knowledge of international policy frameworks for addressing public health issues related to mental health and substance use disorders, as well as psychosocial and epidemiological aspects of these conditions. The ability to provide expert advice and technical assistance to countries is crucial, along with skills in proposal writing, data interpretation, and effective communication.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Master's degree in psychiatry or clinical psychology from an accredited institution. A doctorate in a related field and certification in mental health and substance use disorder/addiction medicine are desirable qualifications that would enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 7 years of relevant experience with international exposure in developing and implementing policies, strategies, and action plans in the prevention and treatment of mental health conditions and substance abuse. Experience working in developing countries and with UN bodies or NGOs in the mental health field is highly desirable.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of Arabic or French is considered desirable, as it would facilitate communication in the Eastern Mediterranean Region.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive remuneration package, starting with an annual base salary of USD 86,027, along with a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living in Cairo. Benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The position is subject to WHO 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 nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization emphasizes the importance of integrity and ethical standards in its workforce.