Public Health Emergency Preparedness 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 and operations in more than 150 countries, WHO plays a critical role in addressing global health challenges, including disease outbreaks, health emergencies, and the promotion of health equity. The organization works collaboratively with member states and partners to strengthen health systems and improve health outcomes worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Public Health Emergency Preparedness Officer position is integral to the WHO Health Emergencies Preparedness and Response (EPR) program at the country level in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This role is designed to provide strategic technical leadership and operational support to enhance emergency preparedness across all 26 provinces of the DRC. The officer will contribute to strengthening the national capacity for emergency preparedness and readiness, ensuring that the country is better equipped to handle public health emergencies. The incumbent will work closely with national health authorities and partners to assess public health risks, develop and implement national multi-hazard strategic plans, and monitor the effectiveness of these plans in line with WHO standards and the International Health Regulations (IHR). The position requires a proactive approach to building essential capacities for preparedness and readiness, focusing on high-risk areas and ensuring that the health system is resilient in the face of emergencies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties, including but not limited to: supporting and monitoring the implementation of IHR amendments and their evaluation frameworks, including SPAR reporting and JEE; facilitating the rollout of the One Health approach in accordance with the Quadripartite Action Plan; collaborating with the External Partnership and Resource Mobilization Officer to develop Pandemic Fund proposals and implement approved grants; providing specialized public health guidance to the Ministry of Health on risk assessment and emergency management; designing and evaluating early warning systems and rapid response frameworks; coordinating with stakeholders to align health emergency preparedness interventions; organizing and conducting specialized public health training for local teams; and enhancing WHO’s capacity to detect and respond to outbreaks in conflict-affected areas.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s level or above) in public health or a health-related field from an accredited institution. A doctorate in medicine or postgraduate studies in emergency preparedness is desirable. Candidates should have at least seven years of relevant experience in public health emergency preparedness or health sector coordination, with a focus on managing outbreaks and health emergencies. Experience in capacity building and developing collaborative partnerships is essential. Desirable qualifications include relevant work experience with WHO, other UN agencies, or recognized humanitarian organizations, as well as experience in project management and resource mobilization in emergency settings.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s level or above) in public health or a related field. A doctorate degree in medicine or specialized training in emergency preparedness is considered an asset. Candidates with a Master in Public Health or equivalent qualifications are encouraged to apply.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience at both national and international levels in public health, specifically in emergency preparedness or health sector coordination. Candidates should have a proven track record in managing health emergencies and outbreaks, as well as experience in capacity building and collaborative partnerships. Desirable experience includes work with WHO or other UN agencies, project management, and resource mobilization in emergency contexts.

Languages:
Essential languages for this position include expert-level proficiency in French and intermediate-level proficiency in English. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages, as they will be required to engage with diverse stakeholders and partners in the field of public health emergency preparedness.

Additional Notes:
This position may involve a range of additional notes, including the potential for contract duration, seniority level, and whether the role is full-time or part-time. The WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Candidates should be aware that WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or tobacco users. The successful candidate will be required to provide proof of vaccination as per WHO requirements before undertaking the assignment. The statutory retirement age for staff appointments is 65, and only those expected to complete the term of appointment will be considered for external applications.