National Migration Health Officer

Organizational Context

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in the Syrian Arab Republic seeks a National Migration Health Officer based in Damascus. This role operates under the Chief of Mission and Head of Programme, with technical guidance from regional and HQ specialists. The officer will support IOM's Migration Health portfolio, focusing on strengthening public health capacities at Border Crossing Points (BCPs) in line with International Health Regulations.

Job Purpose

The National Migration Health Officer is responsible for supporting and coordinating IOM's Migration Health portfolio in Syria. This involves strengthening public health capacities at Border Crossing Points (BCPs) to detect and respond to public health events, ensuring compliance with International Health Regulations (IHR 2005). The role focuses on enhancing clinical infrastructure, operational readiness, and cross-border coordination to facilitate rights-based mobility. Additionally, the officer will contribute to expanding the Migration Health Division's (MHD) program portfolio through strategic engagement with partners, resource mobilization, and program development, including integration into non-health IOM programs, thereby enhancing IOM's overall health response and strategic objectives within the country.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and implement IOM's migration health program activities, focusing on strengthening public health capacities at Border Crossing Points (BCPs). This includes conducting assessments, managing procurement and supply, building capacity, planning for emergency preparedness, training staff, and fostering cross-border coordination. Identify opportunities to expand the Migration Health Division's portfolio aligned with national priorities and donor interests. Develop program proposals, monitor donor trends, and promote IOM health initiatives in areas such as border health, outbreak preparedness, diaspora engagement, and health system strengthening. Actively participate in coordination meetings with local health authorities and UN agencies, ensuring migrants, IDPs, and returnees are considered in responses. Monitor program implementation, prepare reports, and document best practices. Maintain high international health standards and scientific knowledge. Conduct migration health assessments, including medical examinations, imaging, laboratory testing, vaccinations, TB management, treatment, referrals, and pre-departure procedures, ensuring accuracy and completeness of records.

Work Experience

Requires operational and field experience in implementing public health activities, particularly for cross-border, outbreak prevention, detection, and response for vulnerable groups. Experience in coordination and liaison with government authorities and knowledge of primary health care systems are essential. Experience in developing health system gap-addressing ideas and integrating health into mission programming is needed. Prior experience in voluntary return health operations is a strong asset.

Skills

Proven capacity to develop and implement migration and health programs. Knowledge of monitoring and evaluation. Excellent written communication skills for report writing. Strong computer literacy, including advanced Microsoft Office proficiency. Excellent communication and presentation skills.

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