Technical Officer (Polio)
Organizational Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) aims to eradicate poliomyelitis and reduce diseases preventable by vaccines. This role supports Member States in implementing immunization strategies, strengthening surveillance systems, and responding to outbreaks. The programme focuses on equitable routine immunization, supplementary activities, new vaccine introductions, and effective disease surveillance.
Job Purpose
The Technical Officer (Polio) will contribute to the eradication of poliomyelitis and the reduction of vaccine-preventable diseases by strengthening national immunization and surveillance systems. This role provides technical advice and implementation support to Member States and WHO offices for national immunization strategies, polio emergency action plans, and integrated VPD prevention and control activities. The position involves supporting the planning, coordination, and monitoring of immunization activities, with a focus on reaching vulnerable populations and reducing inequities. It also includes providing technical support for preparedness and response to polio virus importations or outbreaks and strengthening surveillance networks.
Responsibilities
Provide technical advice and implementation support for national immunization strategies, polio emergency action plans, and integrated VPD prevention and control activities. Support the planning, coordination, implementation, and monitoring of high-quality routine and supplementary immunization activities, focusing on reaching underserved populations and reducing inequities. Offer technical support for preparedness and response to polio virus importations or outbreaks, as well as other priority VPDs. Strengthen surveillance systems (AFP, environmental, case-based) and associated laboratory networks. Analyze epidemiological and immunization data, conduct risk assessments, and provide recommendations. Support workplans, budgets, vaccine forecasting, logistics, and reporting. Develop and disseminate technical guidance, training materials, and monitoring tools. Plan and deliver capacity-building activities for national and subnational staff and partners. Promote the integration of polio eradication efforts with routine immunization and health system strengthening. Liaise with national and international partners to harmonize recommendations and coordinate support. Represent WHO in technical meetings and prepare reports.
Work Experience
Essential: Minimum of seven years of progressive professional experience in public health, with at least four years in disease eradication, immunization, VPD surveillance/control, or infectious disease prevention. Demonstrated experience supporting national/subnational programs, analyzing data, and translating technical guidance into implementation. International exposure in multicultural environments is required. Desirable: Experience outside the home country, significant work in polio eradication or large-scale immunization programs, and experience with WHO, UN organizations, NGOs, or GPEI partners in developing or challenging settings.
Skills
Sound technical knowledge of public health, epidemiology, immunization systems, vaccine science, polio eradication, VPD surveillance, disease prevention, outbreak preparedness/response, and WHO policies. Strong analytical skills for data interpretation, risk assessment, and problem-solving. Knowledge of routine and supplementary immunization planning, equity strategies, vaccine introduction, and supply chain management. Ability to develop and adapt technical guidance and tools. Strong project management, technical writing, facilitation, presentation, and capacity-building skills. Ability to work effectively with diverse national and international partners in challenging environments. Commitment to WHO values.