Public Health Specialist /Epidemiologist

Organizational Context

UNRWA is the largest United Nations operation in the Middle East, providing primary health care to Palestine refugees through over 130 health centers and 3,000 health staff. This role contributes to strengthening one of the world's largest humanitarian primary health care programs and improving the health of a vulnerable population. The position offers significant global health experience with a direct impact.

Job Purpose

The Public Health Specialist/Epidemiologist provides crucial technical support to the Department of Health and field offices for developing and implementing health programs. This role is responsible for monitoring and assessing public health activities and program progress. The specialist offers expertise in operational research, including study design, data collection, analysis, interpretation, and dissemination. They actively participate in health emergencies and epidemiological investigations, analyzing health outcomes data. Additionally, the role supports cross-cutting health topics, serves as a focal point for results-based management and reporting, and contributes to resource mobilization and departmental management processes.

Responsibilities

Provide technical support for health program development and preparation to the Department of Health and field offices. Monitor and assess the implementation of public health activities and program progress. Offer technical expertise in operational research, covering study design, data collection, analysis, interpretation, and dissemination of findings. Participate in health emergency situations, outbreaks, and epidemiological investigations, analyzing health outcomes data. Support cross-cutting health topics such as nutrition, adolescent health, health communication, and gender. Act as the department's focal point for results-based management, annual reporting, and emergency management frameworks. Collaborate on resource mobilization by identifying funding opportunities and contributing to grant proposals. Support departmental management, including work planning, budgeting, and human resources.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of combined national and international experience in epidemiology, research methods, and project management is required. Proven field experience in public health emergencies and refugee assistance is essential. Familiarity with the region and experience within a UN agency are advantageous. At least two years of relevant international experience outside the candidate's home country and UNRWA is required for those not already serving as international staff.

Skills

Applying Technical Expertise, Analyzing, Learning and Researching, Planning and Organizing, Relating and Networking, Communication, Working with People, Drive for Results.

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