Public Health 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 crucial role in coordinating global health responses, particularly in emergencies. The organization focuses on building health systems, improving health outcomes, and addressing health emergencies through a comprehensive approach that includes risk reduction, preparedness, response, and recovery.

Job Overview:
The Public Health Officer position within WHO's Health Emergencies Programme (WHE) is critical for managing health emergency risks and coordinating international health responses. The incumbent will be responsible for data collection and analysis, focusing on strengthening the country's capacity to implement the International Health Regulations (IHR). This role involves managing capacity-building initiatives for health personnel, monitoring and coordinating national health campaigns, and ensuring that public health services align with international standards. The officer will work closely with various health sectors, engage in technical reviews, and prepare comprehensive reports to inform decision-making and improve health outcomes for affected populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage data collection and analysis, including the development and review of technical reports focused on enhancing the country's capacity to implement IHR. This includes securing information from diverse health sectors, analyzing data, and recommending actions.
• Coordinate teams to maintain and improve public health surveillance systems and registries, design and implement assessments relevant to displaced populations, and conduct technical reviews of program plans and reports.
• Manage capacity-building initiatives for health personnel, identifying training needs, developing tailored training materials, and delivering capacity-building activities.
• Monitor and coordinate the implementation of planned activities and national campaigns, ensuring alignment with international health priorities and addressing urgent health issues among affected populations.
• Collaborate with health partners, prepare reports and recommendations, and provide technical guidance for disease outbreak prevention and control during emergencies.
• Perform other related responsibilities as assigned, including backstopping for colleagues as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a university degree in Medicine or public health, with a minimum of two years of relevant experience in the public health field, particularly in emergency and humanitarian response. Desirable qualifications include a Master's degree in Public Health or epidemiology, field experience in surveillance and control of acute public health events, and experience working in resource-limited countries. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of health sector activities in emergency response, familiarity with Emergency programs, policies, and interventions, and proven knowledge of the International Health Regulations (IHR).

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Medicine or public health as a minimum requirement. A Master's degree in Public Health or a related health field is desirable, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of public health issues, particularly in emergency contexts.

Experience:
The position requires at least two years of relevant experience in the public health field, emphasizing emergency and humanitarian response. Candidates with field experience in surveillance and control of acute public health events, particularly in resource-limited settings, will be preferred. Experience with event-based surveillance and risk assessment is also beneficial.

Languages:
Essential language skills include expert knowledge of English and Arabic. Proficiency in these languages is crucial for effective communication and collaboration within the diverse contexts in which WHO operates. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning that only applications from nationals of Libya will be accepted. The remuneration package includes an annual base salary starting at USD 38,658, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Staff members are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States. The organization also emphasizes the importance of ethical standards and integrity in its workforce, with a zero-tolerance policy towards abusive conduct.