Child Health Specialist (NO-3), FT, #137967, Pretoria - South Africa, ESAR
Organizational Context
UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. At UNICEF, we are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do for as long as we are needed. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job – it is a calling.
Job Purpose
This Programme component aims to ensure that the most disadvantaged mothers, children, and adolescents have increased access to high-quality, equitable and age-appropriate primary healthcare and nutrition services, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. UNICEF will leverage evidence and resources from the public and private sectors to address equity gaps and to influence policies, plans and innovative programmatic approaches. Specifically, the Programme will support the Department of Health to enhance the quality of care in facilities; expand early detection and screening of children with developmental delays and disabilities; and improve delivery of immunization, HIV prevention and treatment, nutrition and environmental health services through primary healthcare and community health systems.
Responsibilities
The Child Health Specialist will support the Programme development and planning, ensuring alignment with UNICEF's global strategies and national priorities. This includes contributing to situation analysis, needs assessments, and the development of integrated programme strategies. The role involves managing, monitoring, and delivering results for the child health programme component, ensuring efficient and effective implementation of activities. This includes tracking progress against objectives, managing budgets, and ensuring timely reporting. The specialist will also focus on strengthening information systems for child health data, enhancing adolescent-responsive services, and scaling up innovative solutions. Collaboration with government ministries, civil society organizations, and other partners will be crucial to achieve programme goals and advocate for child health policies.
Work Experience
A minimum of two years of professional experience in child health, primary health care, health programme planning and management, or a related area at the national or international level. Experience working in a developing country is an asset. Experience in emergency settings is also desirable.
Skills
Child Health Programme Development, Health Programme Planning, Health Programme Management, Monitoring and Evaluation, Data Analysis, Stakeholder Engagement, Advocacy, Budget Management, Report Writing, UNICEF Policies and Procedures, Interpersonal Skills, Communication Skills