Program support officer, immunization in emergencies

Volunteering Admin Medical & Health Crisis & Emergency Response

Overview

Provide technical support for immunization in emergencies and outbreak response.

You have:

• A professional work experience at the national and/or international level in immunization, emergency response, or other relevant health programmes.
• Advanced higher degree (Master’s or equivalent) in public health or health related field.
• Experience with emergency response and vaccination is an asset.
• Experience working in the UN or other international development organization.
• Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation, and reporting skills.
• Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision.

Contract

This is a UNV International Specialist contract. This kind of contract is known as International UN Volunteer. It is normally internationally recruited only. More about UNV International Specialist contracts.

WHO has a strong mandate to work with Member States on immunization and the response to outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Detecting, preventing and responding to these outbreaks are part of the core capacities required by the IHR (2005), and key to achieving global health security.

The purpose of this consultancy is to provide technical support to immunization interventions during new and ongoing emergencies, including, but not limited to coordination, planning, monitoring and evaluation, and early recovery of routine vaccination services. This includes risk assessments to determine the rationale for vaccination; review of vaccine options based on contextual considerations; ensuring effective and inclusive coordination mechanisms for planning and implementation of vaccination activities; facilitation of partnerships and cross border collaboration when required; establishing a monitoring framework and sharing of information timely; facilitation of re-establishment or maintenance of routine immunization in the emergency context.

The mission of WHO's Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Cluster is to build the capacity of Member States to manage health emergency risks and, when national capacities are overwhelmed, to lead and coordinate the international health response to contain outbreaks and to provide effective relief and recovery to affected populations. The EPR Cluster is responsible for identifying gaps and strengthening national capacities in preparedness and response to respond effectively to emergencies while ensuring resilience of health systems during these emergencies.

The incumbent undertakes coordinated, transparent and collaborative assessment, planning and implementation of vaccination response approaches for WHO to engage as a trusted partner in outbreaks and health emergencies, providing unique and valued capacities.

· Aide with preparation of documents, reports, talking points and work plans as needed to support programme activities and strategic priorities.

· Weekly briefs on the vaccination response for ongoing incidents (e.g., diphtheria, mpox, cholera, COVID-19)

· Support cluster in completing paperwork related to reporting, events & administration.

· Representation of the vaccines pillar at the weekly event coordination meetings

· All countries with active outbreaks and a vaccination pillar supported to develop and implement costed vaccination action plans.

· Contribute to development of tools and technical guidance documents on vaccination response and strategies to ongoing vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks.

· Coordinate WHO support for vaccination in emergency context by ensuring regional coordination and guide decision making on vaccination interventions immediately after the onset or during planning in anticipation of a likely acute emergency.

· Providing guidance and technical support to countries in determining and setting policies for vaccination in emergencies.

· Contribute to the preparation of slides presentation vaccination activities that are coordinated out of the EPR cluster.

· Contribute to the development of scientific publications.

· Professionalism: demonstrated understanding of operations relevant to WHO AFRO; technical capabilities or knowledge relevant or transferrable to WHO AFRO procedures and rules; discretion, political sensitivity, diplomacy and tact to deal with clients; ability to apply good judgement; ability to liaise and coordinate with a range of different actors, especially in senior positions; where appropriate, high degree of autonomy, personal initiative and ability to take ownership; resourcefulness and willingness to accept wide responsibilities and ability to work independently under established procedures; ability to manage information objectively, accurately and confidentially; responsive and client-oriented;

· Integrity: demonstrate the values and ethical standards of the WHO AFRO in daily activities and behaviours while acting without consideration of personal gains; resist undue political pressure in decision-making; stand by decisions that are in the organization’s interest even if they are unpopular; take prompt action in cases of unprofessional or unethical behaviour; does not abuse power or authority;

· Teamwork and respect for diversity: ability to operate effectively across organizational boundaries; excellent interpersonal skills; ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and

harmonious working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, mixed-gender environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity; sensitivity and adaptability to culture, gender, religion, nationality and age; commitment to implementing the goal of gender equality by ensuring the equal participation and full involvement of women and men in all aspects of UN operations; ability to achieve common goals and provide guidance or training to colleagues;

· Commitment to continuous learning: initiative and willingness to learn new skills and stay abreast of new developments in area of expertise; ability to adapt to changes in work environment.

· Planning and organizing: effective organizational and problem-solving skills and ability to manage a large volume of work in an efficient and timely manner; ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate and monitor (own) work; ability to work under pressure, with conflicting deadlines, and to handle multiple concurrent projects/activities;

· Communication: proven interpersonal skills; good spoken and written communication skills, including ability to prepare clear and concise reports; ability to conduct presentations, articulate options and positions concisely; ability to make and defend recommendations; ability to communicate and empathize with staff (including national staff), military personnel, volunteers, counterparts and local interlocutors coming from very diverse backgrounds; capacity to transfer information and knowledge to a wide range of different target groups;

· Flexibility: adaptability and ability to live and work in potentially hazardous and remote conditions, involving physical hardship and little comfort; to operate independently in austere environments for protracted periods; willingness to travel within the area of operations and to transfer to other duty stations within the area of operations as necessary;

· Genuine commitment towards the principles of voluntary engagement, which includes solidarity, compassion, reciprocity and self-reliance; and commitment WHO AFRO’s mission and vision, as well as to the UN Core Values.

A professional work experience at the national and/or international level in immunization, emergency response, or other relevant health programmes;

Desirable

· Advanced higher degree (Master’s or equivalent) in public health or health related field; · Experience with emergency response and vaccination is an asset · Experience working in the UN or other international development organization;

Skills

· Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation, reporting skills; with ability to write in a clear and concise manner and give technical advice and guidance taking into consideration the views of multiple stakeholders and partners in resource-limited contexts; and to participate in resource mobilization and advocacy activities

· Accuracy and professionalism in document production and editing;

· Excellent interpersonal skills; culturally and socially sensitive; ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a range of partners, including grassroots community members, religious and youth organizations, and authorities at different levels; familiarity with tools and approaches of communications for development;

· Ability to work and adapt professionally and effectively in a challenging environment; ability to work effectively in a multicultural team of international and national personnel;

· Solid overall computer literacy, including proficiency in various MS Office applications (Excel, Word, etc.) and email/internet; familiarity with database management; and office technology equipment;

· Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision; ability to work with tight deadlines;

· Have affinity with or interest in emergency preparedness and response, vaccine-preventable diseases, volunteerism as a mechanism for durable development, and the UN System.

Nairobi, Kenya, is a vibrant city and the capital of the Republic of Kenya, located in East Africa. It serves as a significant economic, political, and cultural hub in the region and shares borders with several countries, including Uganda to the west, Tanzania to the south, and Ethiopia to the north.

In recent years, Nairobi has witnessed steady economic growth, bolstered by sectors such as technology, finance, and tourism. The city's gross domestic product has been on the rise, reflecting its position as a leading center for innovation, often referred to as "Silicon Savannah." Despite challenges such as infrastructure development and urbanization, Nairobi remains one of Africa's most dynamic cities.

The cost of living in Nairobi varies, but it is generally higher than in many other East African cities. While decent housing is available, affordability can be a concern, particularly in more desirable neighborhoods. The city is known for its cultural richness, with a vibrant arts scene, diverse cuisine, and a strong emphasis on community and social gatherings.

Transportation can experience disruptions due to traffic congestion, which is a common issue in urban centers. However, Nairobi's public transport system is improving, with initiatives such as the Nairobi Expressway and the introduction of commuter trains.

Nairobi is widely regarded as safe for both residents and travelers, although it is always advisable to exercise caution, particularly in certain areas. The city offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, showcasing a lively lifestyle that embraces innovation while honoring cultural heritage.

As a thriving metropolis, Nairobi provides a fascinating environment characterized by enthusiasm and resilience. Adapting to the local lifestyle requires an openness to diverse cultures and a willingness to engage with the community, making it an exciting place to live and work for those who embrace its dynamic atmosphere.

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Potential interview questions

Added 1 year ago - Updated 1 year ago - Source: unv.org