Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Specialist (HER Roster)

Organizational Context

The World Health Organization (WHO) is the UN's global health authority, established in 1948. Working across global, regional, and country levels, WHO collaborates with 194 Member States to achieve the highest possible level of health for all people. In Viet Nam, WHO has been a key partner since 1977, supporting the government's transition to middle-income status and aiming for universal health coverage with high-quality services. This role supports UN efforts to strengthen disaster risk reduction and resilience.

Job Purpose

This UN Volunteer assignment, part of the Humanitarian Emergency Response (HER) Roster, aims to strengthen Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), emergency preparedness, and resilience-building in Viet Nam. The DRR Specialist will support a UN agency, working with national and local authorities, partners, and communities. The role contributes to enhancing disaster preparedness, risk assessment, early warning systems, and emergency response planning. It supports the implementation of national DRR strategies aligned with the Sendai Framework and SDGs, ultimately aiming for strengthened preparedness, improved coordination, enhanced community resilience, and better integration of DRR into development planning.

Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the Technical Officer on Disaster Risk Management, the DRR Specialist will support DRR, emergency preparedness, and resilience-building activities. Key tasks include collecting and analyzing data on disaster risks, hazards, and vulnerabilities; assisting in assessing health risks from natural hazards and public health emergencies; and supporting the development, implementation, and monitoring of DRR initiatives. The role involves contributing to preparedness activities like contingency planning and simulations, and facilitating health sector coordination through organizing meetings and capacity-building events. Additionally, the specialist will prepare technical documents, monitor project activities, support community engagement, and perform other related tasks as required.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in disaster risk reduction, emergency preparedness, humanitarian response, climate resilience, or public health emergency management is required. Experience in planning, implementing, and monitoring DRR activities, conducting research and analysis, and working with government institutions, UN agencies, or NGOs is essential. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and excellent written and spoken English are necessary. Experience with the Sendai Framework, climate adaptation, or facilitating trainings is desirable.

Skills

Core competencies include professionalism, planning and organizing, teamwork, communication, adaptability, and commitment to volunteerism. Technical skills encompass emergency preparedness, crisis response, project management, programme development, strategy, and community development. The role requires strong organizational, communication, and stakeholder coordination skills, with the ability to work effectively in multicultural teams and adapt to changing conditions.

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