WHO Technical Officer - Immunization

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 works to ensure that every person can attain the highest possible level of health. The organization focuses on various health issues, including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response, aiming to achieve universal health coverage and health equity.

Job Overview:
The WHO Technical Officer for Immunization will play a critical role in ensuring that children and high-risk populations are fully immunized with effective vaccines against targeted diseases. This position involves providing technical assistance to the Government of Lesotho to strengthen routine immunization and disease surveillance. The officer will work closely with the Ministry of Health and other partners to promote equitable access to immunization services, support the introduction of new vaccines, and maintain efforts towards polio eradication and measles elimination. The role requires a deep understanding of national and regional health priorities and the ability to analyze health data to inform policy and operational decisions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for coordinating with technical focal points at regional and headquarters levels, providing guidance for planning Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIA), and prioritizing resource allocation based on national health priorities. They will support the Ministry of Health in implementing evidence-informed strategies to reduce under-immunization and address zero-dose children, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. The officer will also collaborate with partners to enhance polio surveillance and respond to outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs). Additional responsibilities include managing epidemiological data, supporting capacity building in immunization, and acting as a liaison between the government and WHO on immunization matters. The officer may also be tasked with other duties as assigned by supervisors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in medicine, nursing, midwifery, public health, or a related field. A postgraduate degree in epidemiology or public health is desirable. Essential experience includes at least five years in public health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, with a focus on disease eradication, immunization, and child health services. Significant experience with vaccine-preventable diseases and polio eradication programs is also preferred. Familiarity with international organizations and non-governmental organizations is an added advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a university degree in a relevant field such as medicine, nursing, midwifery, public health, or international development. A postgraduate degree in epidemiology or public health is considered an asset and will enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in public health, particularly at national or sub-national levels in low- and middle-income countries. Candidates should have at least four years of experience specifically in disease eradication, immunization, child health services, or infectious disease control. Experience with vaccine-preventable diseases and polio eradication programs is highly desirable, as is experience working with international organizations or NGOs.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. A beginner's knowledge of French is considered desirable, as it may facilitate communication in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning that only applications from nationals of Lesotho will be accepted. The remuneration package includes an annual base salary starting at LSL 737,382, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Staff members are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. The WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization also emphasizes the importance of ethical standards and integrity in its workforce.