Technical Officer (Polio), Mogadiscio, Somalia

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME

To stop transmission of poliovirus from Somalia by the year 2017 through routine and supplementary immunization and a high-quality AFP surveillance system.In addition, to reduce morbidity of other EPI target diseases.
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

Under the technical direction of the Team Lead Polio and Vaccine Preventable Diseases (PVD) and the overall supervision of the WHO Representative, the incumbent will work as National Professional Officer with responsibility and accountability for the country’s programme. He/she will be responsible for the work of a number of Polio Eradication Officers by providing advice and supervision.

1. Support surveillance activities (for AFP and VPI diseases) to ensure achievement/maintenance of certification standards by: a) Participating in the planning and in the implementation of active surveillance and routine reporting. b) Supporting the training activities and supervision of surveillance/support staff in the area of assignment. c) Participating in the organization of advocacy/orientation meetings for health care providers. d) Ensuring proper case investigations, follow-up, and classification. e) Regular analysis of surveillance data and monitoring indicators.

2. Support the development and strengthening of routine immunization through: a) Participating in the development of micro-plans for implementation of routine immunization using guidance from the National Immunization Strategy (NIS). b) Coordinating with partners on activities related to routine immunization and ensuring community participation. c) Timely analysis and interpretation of routine immunization data and its use for corrective action.

3. Support supplementary immunization activities through:  a)Support preparations, implementation, and monitoring of supplementary immunization activities, including micro-planning, training, and monitoring. b) Timely analysis of data and its use for corrective action.

4. Liaise with different EPI/PEI (Polio Eradication Initiative) partners and enlist continued commitment of national and local authorities to stated goals. 5. Oversee activities of national support staff recruited by WHO working in the Polio eradication and immunization activities.

6. Submit monthly reports to reflect progress achieved, constraints and proposed actions.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Essential: University degree in medicine from a recognized medical school.
Desirable: Postgraduate qualifications in public health (preferably in epidemiology of child health).
Experience

Essential: At least 5 years’ experience in Polio Eradication and EPI-related activities.
Desirable: Experience in NGOs, UN agencies, or the Ministry of Health in immunization related areas.
Skills

Managerial skills, providing leadership to the staff, and knowledge of Epidemiology.
WHO Competencies

https://cdn.who.int/media/docs/default-source/who-careers/who-enhanced-competence.pdf?sfvrsn=aae66472_3&download=true

• Teamwork
• Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
• Communication
• Producing results
• Creating an empowering and motivating environment.

Use of Language Skills

Essential: Expert knowledge of English.

Expert knowledge of the local language.

Desirable: N/A

REMUNERATION

Remuneration comprises an annual base salary starting at USD 55,151 (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance, as applicable) and 30 days of annual leave.