Technical 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 works to address global health challenges, including noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and health system strengthening. The organization aims to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health.

Job Overview:
The Technical Officer position is part of the Special Initiative on Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and Innovation (SNI) program, which supports Member States in combating avoidable NCDs in the WHO European Region. The role involves providing technical support for the EVID-ACTION project, which focuses on evidence-based policies and interventions to reduce alcohol consumption. The officer will work closely with Member States to strengthen health systems, develop innovative tools, and implement effective policy options. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including WHO Collaborating Centres, universities, and research institutes, to foster knowledge exchange and support evidence-building in public health interventions.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide technical support to Member States for the implementation of the EVID-ACTION project, focusing on strengthening health systems responses to alcohol consumption and substance use disorders.
• Prepare scientific papers, presentations, and policy briefs that identify gaps and needs in the implementation of alcohol-related initiatives.
• Develop innovative tools to assist countries in implementing effective policies aimed at reducing alcohol consumption.
• Ensure the quality and feasibility of the online SBI platform, supporting training and capacity building through innovative approaches, including AI.
• Collaborate with other programmatic areas and WHO networks to design and deliver training courses and workshops on alcohol-related topics.
• Prepare reports and publications that capture the strategic and innovative dimensions of addressing alcohol consumption and substance use disorders.
• Interact with WHO Collaborating Centres and other stakeholders to facilitate knowledge exchange and support evidence-based policy implementation.
• Contribute to the development of training programs on policy implementation and health systems strengthening.
• Assist in resource mobilization efforts for activities related to alcohol consumption and substance use disorders at national and regional levels. 1
• Perform other duties as required to support the objectives of the SNI program.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a Master's level university degree in public health, social sciences, law, or a related field. Desirable qualifications include an additional university degree or a Doctorate in any of the aforementioned fields. Candidates must possess a minimum of five years of relevant experience in the area of alcohol or NCDs, with at least one year at the international level. Proven experience working with governmental agencies and UN organizations is also desirable, along with a strong understanding of public health interventions related to NCDs and alcohol.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Master's level university degree in public health, social sciences, law, or a similar field relevant to the position. An additional degree or Doctorate in these fields is considered desirable, indicating a higher level of expertise and knowledge in public health and related areas.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in the area of alcohol or noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including at least one year of experience at the international level. Candidates with proven experience working with Ministries of Health and other governmental agencies, as well as partnerships with UN organizations and NGOs, will be preferred. This experience should demonstrate a strong understanding of public health systems and interventions.

Languages:
Essential language skills include expert knowledge of English. Desirable language skills include intermediate knowledge of French, Russian, and German, which can enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the WHO European Region.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to WHO Staff Regulations and Rules, and candidates must be prepared for mobility, as international professional employment with WHO may require assignment to various duty stations worldwide. The remuneration for this position starts at USD 70,212 annually, with additional benefits such as 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, and an education grant for dependent children. 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.