Health Specialist (Community Based Surveillance), P-3, TA (6 Months), #137394, Bunia, Democratic Republic of Congo - WCAR

Organizational Context

UNICEF operates in over 190 countries, committed to children's rights. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, UNICEF supports the government's response to the 17th Ebola outbreak, which affects Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu. This involves a multi-sectoral approach focusing on community engagement, surveillance, infection prevention, and essential services for vulnerable populations amidst a complex, insecure, and logistically challenging environment.

Job Purpose

The primary purpose of this Health Specialist role is to significantly enhance the operational implementation of community-based surveillance (CBS) mechanisms within the Democratic Republic of Congo, specifically targeting the ongoing Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak. The incumbent will be instrumental in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of early detection systems, ensuring timely reporting of suspected Ebola cases, and facilitating robust follow-up actions at the community level. This critical function aims to strengthen the overall EVD response by empowering local communities to identify and report potential cases swiftly, thereby contributing to containment efforts and reducing transmission. The role demands strong coordination, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity to navigate the complex health system limitations, logistical constraints, insecurity, and diverse community perceptions prevalent in the affected provinces. By bolstering CBS, the specialist will play a vital part in protecting children and at-risk communities from the devastating impact of Ebola.

Responsibilities

The Health Specialist will primarily focus on strengthening the operational implementation of community-based surveillance (CBS) to significantly improve the early detection, reporting, and subsequent follow-up of suspected Ebola cases directly at the community level. This critical function involves developing and refining practical strategies for community engagement, ensuring active participation and ownership of surveillance activities among local populations. The specialist will be tasked with overseeing the establishment and maintenance of efficient reporting mechanisms, guaranteeing that information regarding suspected cases is collected accurately, verified, and transmitted promptly to relevant health authorities for immediate action. Furthermore, the role encompasses coordinating closely with local health structures, community leaders, and partner organizations to facilitate rapid investigation and comprehensive follow-up of all reported cases, ensuring that appropriate public health interventions, including isolation, contact tracing, and care, are initiated without delay. The incumbent will also contribute to enhancing the capacity of community health workers and volunteers through targeted training and mentorship, empowering them to effectively identify, report, and support the response to potential outbreaks, all while navigating the complex context with strong coordination, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity.

Work Experience

A minimum of five (5) years of relevant professional experience in community surveillance and/or public health programmes is required. Experience in epidemic response (e.g., Ebola, cholera, or other disease outbreaks) and relevant experience at country level, particularly in development, fragile settings, and humanitarian contexts, are considered assets.

Skills

Teamwork and Collaboration, Effective Community Communication, Organization and Attention to Detail, Results Orientation, Ability to Work in Challenging and Emergency Contexts, Strong Knowledge of Epidemiological Surveillance, Proficiency in Community-Based Surveillance (CBS) Approaches, Understanding of Community Contexts and Local Dynamics, Ability to Engage and Work Effectively with Community Stakeholders, Supervision, Coaching, and Training Skills

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