Field Pharmaceutical Services Officer - Grade HL08 -For Internal Candidates Only
Organizational Context
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) is a UN organization providing assistance and protection to approximately 5.8 million Palestine refugees across the Middle East. With over 30,000 staff, it is the largest UN operation in the region, offering services in education, health, social services, and more. This role reports to the Deputy Chief, Field Health Programme.
Job Purpose
This role directs, plans, supervises, monitors, and evaluates pharmaceutical services and medical supply operations within the Field. The incumbent advises on pharmaceutical matters, quantifies, orders, and technically evaluates medical supplies, ensuring proper storage and maintaining the cold chain. Responsibilities include monitoring dispensary operations, conducting supervisory visits to health centers, and ensuring adherence to health program policies. The role also involves analyzing prescribing practices, providing technical guidance to health staff, assuring the quality of medical supplies, coordinating with procurement, and planning training for pharmaceutical staff. Additionally, the position may conduct relevant health studies.
Responsibilities
The Pharmaceutical Services Officer directs and evaluates field pharmaceutical operations, including the ordering and distribution of medical supplies. Key duties involve advising supervisors on pharmaceutical matters, quantifying and technically evaluating medical supplies, and ensuring proper storage and cold chain maintenance. The role includes monitoring dispensary operations at health centers, conducting supervisory visits, and ensuring compliance with health program guidelines. Responsibilities also encompass analyzing prescribing practices for efficiency, providing technical guidance to health staff, ensuring the quality assurance of medical supplies, and coordinating with procurement and logistics departments. Furthermore, the officer plans and evaluates training for pharmaceutical staff and conducts relevant health studies.
Work Experience
A minimum of six years of experience in pharmacy services is required, with at least three years in a supervisory role managing medical supply operations. A university degree in pharmacy or a related field and a valid pharmacy license are also necessary.
Skills
Proficiency in UNRWA standard computer applications, including Health Information System. Knowledge of basic supply and financial procedures. Understanding of WHO guidelines on quality assurance of medical supplies. Core competencies include Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity, Communication, Working with People, and Drive for Results. Additional competencies: Relating and Networking, Persuading and Influencing, Planning and Organizing, Coping with Pressure and Setbacks, Leading and Supervising.