Objectives of the Position
The role involves providing technical assistance to health authorities and other stakeholders in support of WHO programs focused on epidemic and emergency preparedness and response. This assistance will bolster national preparedness, response capabilities, and core capacities under the International Health Regulations (IHR) for emerging infectious diseases. The goal is to support WHO Health Emergencies (WHE) in their mission to help countries prevent, prepare for, detect, respond to, and recover from outbreaks and emergencies.
Description of Duties
The incumbent will undertake a range of duties, tailored to the needs of the office, including:
- Coordinating with technical focal points at regional and headquarters levels under the guidance of the WHO country office head.
- Providing technical assistance to national authorities to enhance preparedness and response capabilities to health emergencies, including emerging infectious diseases and outbreaks.
- Supporting emergency risk management, preparedness, and the implementation of International Health Regulations.
- Collaborating with relevant ministries to perform gap analyses and develop or revise national strategies and health emergency plans.
- Preparing national risk profiles to assess health risks and the needs of vulnerable populations.
- Identifying funding gaps and mobilizing resources for health-sector risk reduction and emergency preparedness.
- Facilitating training and implementation of measures to strengthen national competencies in line with IHR.
- Representing WHO in inter-agency meetings and external forums related to epidemics and emergency preparedness and response.
Skills and Qualifications
Education:
- Essential: University degree in epidemiology, public health, or a related medical field.
- Desirable: Additional training in applied epidemiology.
Experience:
- Essential: Five years of relevant experience at the national level in public health, emergency preparedness, and response activities, including planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation in a developing country or regional context.
- Desirable: Familiarity with WHO’s mandate and goals or experience with United Nations programs.
Skills:
- Understanding of epidemic and emergency preparedness and response programs.
- Knowledge of International Health Regulations (IHR).
- Ability to develop and coordinate health policy and strategic interventions.
- Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
WHO Competencies:
- Teamwork, respect for cultural differences, effective communication, adaptability, and efficient resource management.
Language Skills:
- Essential: Expert knowledge of English, French, and the local language of Djibouti.
Remuneration
The position offers an annual base salary starting at DJF 7,483,000, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance, plus 30 days of annual leave.
How to Apply
This vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level. Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted. The selection process may include a written test and/or an asynchronous video assessment. Finalists will be required to provide scanned copies of required degrees/diplomas/certificates, which must be accredited as per the World Higher Education Database (WHED).
Additional Information
WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, disability, sexual orientation, cultural or religious backgrounds, to apply. WHO promotes a non-smoking environment and does not hire smokers or users of any form of tobacco.
For detailed application instructions and more information on WHO’s operations, please visit WHO’s website.