International Consultant - Border Health

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 works in various areas including health systems, communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, and emergency response. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on improving health outcomes globally and ensuring that all people can attain the highest possible level of health.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant - Border Health is aimed at providing technical support to the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) in Fiji. The consultant will focus on strengthening the International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) core capacities at designated Points of Entry (PoE). This involves assessing the current capacities of PoE, developing a Public Health Emergency Contingency Plan, preparing operational guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and establishing a roadmap for compliance with IHR requirements and Joint External Evaluation (JEE) PoE capacities. The consultant will play a crucial role in enhancing Fiji's health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, particularly in light of the increasing risks associated with international travel and trade, including infectious disease outbreaks and other public health emergencies. The consultant will be expected to engage with various stakeholders, conduct assessments, and facilitate consultations to ensure a comprehensive approach to public health preparedness and response at PoE.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key deliverables throughout the consultancy. These include:

• Assessment of IHR Point of Entry Capacities: This involves reviewing relevant legislation, policies, and previous assessments, developing a detailed workplan, and conducting structured assessments at designated airports and seaports in Fiji.
• Development of a Public Health Emergency Contingency Plan: The consultant will facilitate stakeholder consultations, draft the contingency plan, and conduct a validation workshop to finalize the plan based on feedback.
• Development of Operational Guidelines and SOPs: The consultant will create a package of operational guidelines and SOPs to support the implementation of the contingency plan and enhance operational readiness at PoEs.
• Submission of Final and Mission Report: A comprehensive final report summarizing activities undertaken, assessment findings, key recommendations, and finalized documents will be prepared. The consultant will also be expected to engage in multisectoral coordination and ensure effective communication with all stakeholders involved.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a university degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Health Security, Environmental Health, Emergency Management, or a related field. A Master's degree in any of these areas or relevant training in border health, disaster management, aviation health, or health security is desirable. The consultant must have at least 5-10 years of professional experience in public health, emergency preparedness and response, IHR implementation, or health security. Demonstrated experience in conducting assessments and developing public health plans, guidelines, and SOPs is essential. Experience supporting JEE assessments, National Action Plans for Health Security (NAPHS), and working with WHO or other international partners is also desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree in a relevant field such as Public Health, Epidemiology, Health Security, Environmental Health, or Emergency Management. A Master's degree in these areas is preferred, along with relevant training or qualifications in border health or related disciplines. Educational qualifications must be from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The consultant should have a minimum of 5-10 years of professional experience in areas related to public health, emergency preparedness, and response. This includes experience in implementing International Health Regulations and health security measures. Experience in conducting assessments and developing public health plans is crucial, as well as familiarity with the specific challenges faced by Small Island Developing States and the Pacific region. Previous work with WHO or similar international organizations is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in the English language is essential for this position. Strong communication skills are necessary for effective stakeholder engagement and report writing. While English is the mandatory language, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy is a nil remunerated position, with an expected duration of up to 6 months, starting in October 2026, subject to the completion of recruitment and selection formalities. The consultant will be required to travel to designated Points of Entry in Fiji to conduct assessments and consultations as needed. The WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test may be used as part of the screening process. The WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of tobacco.