Water, Hygiene, and Sanitation (WASH) and Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) 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 ensure that all people attain the highest possible level of health. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO's objectives include effective engagement with member states to advance global health agendas, contributing to national health policies, and addressing health challenges through collaborative efforts.

Job Overview:
The position of Water, Hygiene, and Sanitation (WASH) and Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Officer is critical in the context of a cholera outbreak currently affecting multiple provinces in Angola. The incumbent will be responsible for managing WASH activities within cholera treatment centers, ensuring the availability of safe water, adequate sanitation facilities, and promoting hygiene practices to minimize the risk of cholera transmission and other infections. This role requires a proactive approach to support the Ministry of Health's response efforts and involves collaboration with various teams to strengthen the overall response to the outbreak. The officer will also engage in training staff and community members on effective cholera management and hygiene practices, ensuring that the response is comprehensive and effective.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the WASH and IPC Officer include managing all WASH activities within cholera treatment centers, ensuring safe water availability, and promoting hygiene practices. The officer will travel to cholera-affected provinces to provide technical assistance to the Ministry of Health and provincial health teams. Key responsibilities include establishing and managing cholera treatment sites, collaborating with various teams to strengthen the response, supporting training for staff in clinical management, and ensuring quality of care in treatment facilities. The officer will also be responsible for monitoring and reporting on key WASH indicators, implementing water treatment methods, managing sanitation facilities, and developing hygiene promotion messages. Additionally, the officer will oversee waste management systems and ensure compliance with IPC protocols, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position should possess a strong background in public health, particularly in WASH and IPC practices. They should have experience in managing health-related projects, particularly in emergency settings. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, are essential, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to the principles of voluntary engagement and the mission of WHO. Familiarity with cholera response strategies and community engagement practices is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
A degree in public health, environmental health, or a related field is required for this position. Advanced degrees or specialized training in WASH or IPC practices will be considered an asset. Candidates should have a solid understanding of health systems and the challenges faced in emergency health responses, particularly in low-resource settings.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2-5 years of relevant experience in public health, with a focus on WASH and IPC in emergency contexts. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in cholera response or similar health crises, is highly desirable. The ability to adapt to rapidly changing environments and work under pressure is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in Portuguese is highly desirable given the location of the assignment. Knowledge of additional languages spoken in Angola may be an advantage.

Additional Notes:
This position is a national UN Volunteer assignment, and the incumbent will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The assignment is expected to be full-time, and candidates must be between the ages of 27 and 80 years old. The role may involve travel to various provinces affected by cholera, and the officer will be expected to participate in regular coordination meetings and collaborate closely with medical teams and other stakeholders.