Emergency WASH Specialist

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Position Title: Emergency WASH Specialist
Location: Kabul
Country: Afghanistan
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'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 working towards improving health outcomes globally. WHO's Health Emergencies Programme focuses on helping countries prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from health emergencies, including outbreaks and natural disasters.

Job Overview:
The Emergency WASH Specialist position is critical for the WHO's Health Emergencies Programme, which aims to enhance the health response during emergencies. The specialist will be responsible for conducting rapid assessments of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) needs in health facilities, ensuring that adequate measures are taken to prevent water-borne diseases and manage infection control. The role requires close collaboration with health partners and the WASH cluster to implement effective interventions. The specialist will also provide technical expertise and support to local health authorities and partners, ensuring compliance with WHO standards and guidelines. This position demands a proactive approach to identifying gaps in WASH services and proposing remedial actions to improve health outcomes during emergencies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
1) Conduct emergency rapid assessments for WASH, vector control, and infection control in health facilities. 2) Monitor and report on the progress of WASH activities in the context of incident management. 3) Implement emergency WASH activities in response to outbreaks, collaborating with the WASH cluster. 4) Provide technical support to health partners on WASH interventions and facility rehabilitation. 5) Ensure proper implementation of infection control measures in health facilities. 6) Adhere to Sphere and WHO standards for WASH and infection control. 7) Guide the implementation of WASH activities within the health cluster. 8) Train Ministry of Public Health staff and WHO partners on WASH standards. 9) Draft evaluation and situation reports for effective communication with stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a first university degree in engineering, health, humanitarian logistics, or a related field, with a specialization in water and sanitation. Desirable qualifications include an advanced degree (Master's level or above) in public health, water, sanitation, and hygiene, as well as training in computer applications related to water and sanitation project design.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a first university degree in a relevant field such as engineering or public health, with a focus on water and sanitation. An advanced degree is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise in the subject matter.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant experience is required, particularly in the design and implementation of water and sanitation assessments and projects in emergency contexts. Experience in collaborating with national authorities and promoting joint actions is essential. Familiarity with WHO's mandate and operations, as well as experience with UN organizations or recognized humanitarian NGOs, is desirable.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as essential.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 64,121, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment based on the cost of living, 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependents, home leave, and education grants for children. The WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States. Candidates should be prepared for a rigorous selection process, which may include written tests and interviews. The WHO emphasizes a smoke-free environment and requires candidates to confirm vaccination status as part of the hiring process.