Technical Officer – Surveillance

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to mobilizing research, resources, and relationships to ensure that individuals everywhere have access to the opportunities necessary for leading full and healthy lives. Established with a mission to improve lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions, FHI 360 employs over 2,000 experts who work across more than 60 countries globally. The organization focuses on various health and development issues, including public health, education, and economic development, and is committed to fostering sustainable change through collaboration with local partners and communities.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer – Surveillance plays a crucial role in supporting the planning, implementation, monitoring, and documentation of the EpiC GHS technical assistance aimed at strengthening disease surveillance, early warning, and response systems in the Philippines. This position is integral to the EpiC project, which is funded by the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the U.S. Department of State. The officer will work closely with the Department of Health (DOH), local government units (LGUs), and various partners to enhance case- and event-based surveillance, Community Event-Based Surveillance and Response (CESR), and the application of the 7-1-7 Framework. The role requires a combination of technical planning, partner coordination, and administrative support, ensuring that all activities align with national policies and strategies related to health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and disease response.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Strengthening Surveillance Architecture: Collaborate with the DOH and LGUs to enhance the implementation of case- and event-based surveillance systems, including community-based surveillance and early action responses. Support IT initiatives related to disease surveillance, including the customization and development of DHIS2, and assist in identifying gaps in reporting and data quality. Mentor frontline surveillance staff on signal detection and early action responses.
• Multisectoral Coordination and One Health: Coordinate with stakeholders across human, animal, and environmental health sectors to conduct baseline assessments, tabletop exercises, and after-action reviews. Support the development of a One Health playbook and improve sentinel surveillance pathways.
• Capacity Strengthening and Knowledge Transfer: Identify learning needs and prepare training materials for surveillance and One Health activities. Co-facilitate trainings and workshops, ensuring inclusive participation from relevant sectors. Document learning gaps and track follow-up actions to enhance training delivery.
• Technical Documentation and Operational Support: Draft activity designs, reports, and technical briefs. Coordinate schedules and partner communications, and maintain records and technical files while adhering to confidentiality requirements. Maintain activity trackers and document lessons learned and good practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate the ability to support the implementation and enhancement of surveillance systems, particularly case- and event-based surveillance. Proven experience in collaborating with government agencies, especially the Department of Health, is essential. Strong communication skills are required to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, international partners, and local communities. Technical writing and synthesis skills are also necessary, along with experience in U.S. Government or donor-led projects or NGOs, which is considered an advantage.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree or its international equivalent in public health, nursing, social sciences, or development studies is required for this position. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding public health systems and disease surveillance methodologies.

Experience:
At least 3 years of combined local, national, and international experience in disease surveillance and response systems is required. This experience should encompass practical involvement in public health initiatives and familiarity with the operational aspects of disease monitoring and response.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the role requires clear communication with various stakeholders. Knowledge of Filipino or other local languages may be beneficial but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Manila, Philippines, and may require domestic travel of at least 30%. The expected hiring salary range for this role is PHP 720,000 - 840,000 annually, with considerations for relevant experience and education. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse and harassment in the workplace. The organization also emphasizes a healthy work/life balance and offers a competitive benefits package.