Technical Officer (Infectious Hazard Preparedness/Avian Influenza)

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Position Title: Technical Officer (Infectious Hazard Preparedness/Avian Influenza)
Location: Pretoria
Country: South Africa
Deadline Date:

Job Details

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. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has more than 7,000 employees worldwide. WHO's Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Programme aims to build the capacity of Member States to manage health emergency risks and coordinate international health responses during outbreaks.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer position within the Infectious Hazard Preparedness team of WHO's Emergency Preparedness Programme is crucial for enhancing the capacity of countries to manage infectious disease outbreaks. The incumbent will coordinate the implementation of activities under the PIP High Level Implementation Plan II, providing technical guidance on respiratory disease surveillance, including influenza and SARS CoV-

• The role involves updating country Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Plans, strengthening regional capacities for outbreak detection, and developing best practices for influenza epidemiological surveillance. The position requires collaboration with national health ministries and international partners to ensure effective public health responses to infectious diseases.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordinate the implementation of activities under Outputs 1, 2, and 6 of the PIP High Level Implementation Plan II for regional and country workplans.
• Provide technical guidance and support to countries on respiratory disease surveillance, including training activities.
• Support the updating of country Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Plans and provide guidance on monitoring these plans.
• Strengthen regional capacity for detecting respiratory disease outbreaks using epidemiological surveillance methodologies.
• Coordinate the development of best practices for influenza epidemiological surveillance and ensure relevant materials are available for Member States.
• Perform any other duties assigned by the supervisor(s).

Required Qualifications:
Essential: A first university degree in medicine or a related field such as epidemiology or infectious diseases. Desirable: A master's degree in public health or training/experience in infectious disease control, epidemiology, or emergency/disaster management. Candidates should possess strong technical expertise in Integrated Diseases Surveillance and Response, particularly regarding influenza and respiratory pathogens, along with excellent communication, organizational, and analytical skills.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a first university degree in medicine or a related field, with a master's degree in public health being desirable. Training or experience in infectious disease control, epidemiology, or emergency/disaster management is also preferred.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of experience in surveillance, preparedness, and response to infectious diseases, along with the implementation of public health projects at an international level. Experience in managing complex projects with partners is essential. Desirable experience includes working within WHO or the UN system and in Low and Middle Income settings.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of French is desirable, as it may facilitate communication in multilingual environments.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 64,121, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living, 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Candidates must confirm vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking assignments, and the organization maintains a smoke-free environment.