National Professional Officer

Job Advertisement

Position Title: National Professional Officer
Location: Brazzaville
Country: Republic of the Congo
Deadline Date: Not specified

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 has a mission to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. It operates in over 150 countries and has more than 7,000 employees worldwide. WHO's strategic objectives include combating diseases, improving health systems, and addressing health emergencies.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer position is integral to the Vaccination-Preventable Diseases (VPD) program within the WHO's Universal Health Coverage/Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases (UHC/UCN) group in the African Region. The role focuses on managing databases related to vaccination programs, analyzing health data, and ensuring the quality and accessibility of health information. The officer will work closely with various stakeholders to enhance data management practices and support the implementation of health interventions aimed at reducing morbidity and mortality from vaccine-preventable diseases. This position requires a proactive approach to data collection, analysis, and dissemination, ensuring that health information is utilized effectively to inform decision-making and strategic planning.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for managing the VPD program databases, including overseeing content, structure, file locations, and backup systems. Key responsibilities include collecting and analyzing health data from various programs and partners, responding to data requests, and ensuring the dissemination of data in standardized formats. The officer will provide technical expertise in data management and geographic information systems (GIS), verify data quality, and identify gaps in health information management. Additional duties include supporting the development of georeferenced databases, acquiring and producing geospatial data, and providing regular feedback on data analysis at regional and departmental levels. The officer may also be tasked with other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in information or data management, computer science, statistics, applied mathematics, or public health, complemented by training in database development and management from an accredited institution. A postgraduate degree and knowledge of infectious disease epidemiology, statistics, and public health are desirable. Familiarity with GIS and geosciences is also preferred. Candidates should demonstrate proven knowledge of data management systems, particularly in emergency interventions and health operations, and possess strong analytical skills in public health data collection and evaluation.

Educational Background:
A university degree in relevant fields such as information management, computer science, statistics, applied mathematics, or public health is essential. Additional qualifications such as a postgraduate degree in epidemiology or public health, and training in GIS or related fields are highly desirable. Educational qualifications must be from institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
A minimum of one year of relevant experience in data and information management is required, with a focus on geosciences. Candidates should have demonstrated experience using statistical software and ArcGIS, showcasing their ability to handle complex data sets and perform detailed analyses. Experience in health-related data management and emergency response operations is also advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in French or English is mandatory, with a strong preference for candidates who also have practical knowledge of another official UN language. Proficiency in multiple languages will enhance communication and collaboration within the organization and with international partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning only applications from nationals of the Republic of the Congo will be accepted. The salary starts at 16,469,000 XAF annually, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. The contract includes 30 days of annual leave. The vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level, and only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted. A written test may be part of the screening process, and candidates selected for interviews will need to provide scanned copies of their educational qualifications in advance. WHO is committed to diversity and adheres to the highest ethical standards, promoting a safe and respectful workplace.