About the Organization
World Health Organization (WHO) is a leading global institution dedicated to promoting health, keeping the world safe, and serving vulnerable populations. It works closely with governments and partners to strengthen health systems, combat diseases, and improve overall public health outcomes.
WHO plays a vital role in supporting countries like Ethiopia in achieving national and international immunization goals, including disease elimination and eradication programs. Its presence in Ethiopia contributes to strengthening public health systems and ensuring effective disease surveillance and response mechanisms.
The organization fosters a collaborative, inclusive, and mission-driven work environment where professionals contribute to meaningful, life-saving initiatives. Working with WHO offers exposure to global standards, technical expertise, and international best practices.
This position is part of WHO’s effort to enhance disease surveillance systems and outbreak response capabilities, particularly in vaccine-preventable diseases.
Job Description
The Vaccine Preventable Diseases (VPDs) Surveillance & Response Officer will provide high-level technical leadership and coordination for national surveillance systems and outbreak response activities.
The role focuses on strengthening Ethiopia’s capacity to detect, monitor, and respond to vaccine-preventable diseases effectively and efficiently.
The officer will collaborate with national institutions such as the Ministry of Health and public health partners to ensure that surveillance systems are timely, accurate, and aligned with global standards.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading national planning and coordination of VPD surveillance activities
- Supporting technical working groups and stakeholder collaboration
- Strengthening surveillance systems including case-based and community-based approaches
- Ensuring compliance with WHO standards and national guidelines
- Supporting outbreak preparedness, investigation, and response activities
The officer will also contribute to designing strategies that improve immunization coverage and reduce disease outbreaks.
This role requires strong coordination with laboratories, ensuring effective specimen collection, testing, and reporting systems.
Another major component of the job involves mentoring and building the capacity of health workers and surveillance officers across different administrative levels.
The officer will regularly analyze surveillance data to identify trends, risks, and gaps in immunization programs.
They will also prepare reports, dashboards, and policy briefs to guide decision-making at the national level.
This position offers a unique opportunity to influence national health strategies and contribute to disease prevention at scale.
Professionals in this role will gain hands-on experience in public health leadership, emergency response, and program management.
Educational Qualification
Candidates must have a first-level university degree in a health-related field.
A postgraduate qualification in epidemiology, public health, infectious diseases, or related fields is highly desirable.
Additional training in field epidemiology or immunization programs will be considered an advantage.
Work Experience
Applicants should have a minimum of five years of experience in vaccine and immunization programs, particularly in surveillance and response.
Experience in planning, coordinating, and monitoring vaccination campaigns and public health programs at the national level is essential.
Candidates with seven or more years of experience in public health emergency management, surveillance systems, and immunization programs will be highly preferred.
Experience working with government institutions, international organizations, or UN agencies will be an added advantage.
Required Skills and Competencies
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are required for interpreting complex surveillance data.
Candidates must demonstrate the ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in demanding environments.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential for engaging stakeholders and coordinating across institutions.
Proficiency in data analysis tools and standard office software is necessary.
A deep understanding of national immunization strategies and surveillance systems is critical.
Competencies required include teamwork, respect for diversity, and effective communication.
Fluency in English is required, and knowledge of Amharic is essential.
Job Location
The position is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, at the Ministry of Health.
Employment Type and Salary
This is a full-time position under a Special Services Agreement (SSA).
The contract duration is three months.
The monthly salary is USD 3,598, paid in local currency equivalent.
This role provides valuable exposure to international public health systems and enhances career growth in global health.
Professionals will benefit from working in a dynamic environment with opportunities to build networks and technical expertise.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should apply online through the WHO careers portal.
Application Deadline: April 2, 2026.
Candidates are encouraged to submit their applications early to avoid last-minute issues.
Women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
WHO is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and promotes a respectful and supportive work environment.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment.
Applicants are not required to submit scanned certificates or attachments at the initial application stage.
This role is ideal for professionals passionate about public health impact, disease prevention, and strengthening national health systems.
Joining WHO means contributing to a global mission while advancing your professional career in a meaningful and impactful way.