Surveillance Specialist

Job Description

Job Summary / Responsibilities:

The Surveillance Specialist will provide leadership, and technical oversight to support implementation of Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) and EID projects for multiple countries with the following general objectives:

• To improve prevention of avoidable epidemics including naturally occurring outbreaks and intentional or accidental releases of dangerous pathogens
• To improve capacity to rapidly detect threats early
• To report emerging biological threats by responding rapidly and effectively to public health threats of international concern.

The position will be based in the FHI 360 office in Durham, NC or Washington, DC (upon reopening), and will involve both national and/or international travel.

Technical Responsibilities:

Technical responsibilities include working with Project Leads, country diagnostic specialists, monitoring, evaluation, and surveillance staff, FHI 360 senior leadership, and partner representatives across projects to enhance disease surveillance and drive strategies to prevent, detect, and respond to outbreaks. The Surveillance Specialist will provide expert guidance on disease surveillance strategies and activities including, but not limited to:

• Advise, plan, develop, coordinate, and implement the programmatic workplan related to infectious disease surveillance, laboratory surveillance of epidemic- and pandemic-prone diseases
• Provide technical recommendations for the implementation of prevention and control measures for diseases with epidemic and pandemic potential, particularly with regard to surveillance and response and in line with the International Health Regulations (IHR);
• Provide technical cooperation related to the development of core capacities in line with the International Health Regulations (IHR- 2005), including the implementation of the recommendations related to the Joint External Evaluation (JEE);
• Advise and support governments for the institutional strengthening of epidemiologic surveillance, including the National Public Health Laboratory to provide timely and accurate information on diseases with epidemic potential;
• When requested, serve as team lead or work as part of a team to investigate outbreaks at national, regional and/or international levels
• Provide technical advice and guidance to GHSA/EID programs for the implementation of national/international strategies for the prevention, and if possible, the elimination of infectious diseases;
• Collaborate in the implementation and management of projects aiming to reduce morbidity and mortality from diseases with epidemic potential, as well as prepare project proposals to mobilize financial resources from national and international partner agencies;
• Support capacity building in host countries and institutions to enhance Epidemiological surveillance, alert, and response systems, at various levels, to detect, characterize, deploy laboratory surveillance tools, and respond to epidemics;
• Design and implement programs to support capacity building of host country staff for outbreak investigation
• Manage the production and timely dissemination of high-quality relevant data and information, including internal and external situation reports (SitReps), the bulletins, health risk assessments and health contributions to the Humanitarian Needs Overview and the Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP);
• Contribute to the preparation and management of the Biennial Work Plan (BWP) and budgets, and periodic evaluation of projects;
• Contribute to the coordination and communication with partners, with an emphasis on partners who are members of the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network at country level;
• When called upon to directly supervise staff, establish clear work objectives, conduct timely and effective performance appraisals, provide coaching and feedback, and support staff development opportunities;
• Lead business development opportunities relating to epidemiological surveillance of disease and laboratory surveillance diseases.
• Support all FHI 360 GHSA/EID surveillance related activities as needed.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Qualifications and Experience

• A minimum of a master’s degree in epidemiology, public health, or infectious disease control from a recognized institution.
• At least eight years of national and international experience in activities related to the application of epidemiological principles and methods in the design, implementation, and management of surveillance systems; epidemiological analysis; training; and research.
• Experience in surveillance and outbreak investigation and control in developing countries,
• In depth knowledge of, and practical expertise in, public health issues and trends, epidemiological theory, principles and practices and surveillance techniques, systems, and procedures.
• Knowledge and practical expertise in the application and monitoring of implementation of International Health Regulations (IHR).
• Knowledge and skills in supporting cooperation among countries for health development in the areas of epidemiology, surveillance, and response.
• Ability to analyze information, identify problems and recommend solutions or adjustments that take into account the particular situations in different countries.
• Demonstrated experience in leading, managing complex projects that span multiple countries.
• Comprehensive knowledge of theories, concepts, and practices in project management, process development and execution.
• Excellent and demonstrated public relations, policy, representation, and diplomacy skills required.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong consultative and negotiation skills.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills to strategize, plan, and manage resources for successful completion of projects.
• Ability to motivate, influence and collaborate with others; experience in staff development and capacity building experience.
• Ability to build positive working relationships with the various stakeholders’ communities, government officials and other multilateral bodies and donor representatives.
• Exercise judgment to meet strategic business goals and develop objectives and plans that align with and ensure achievement of organizational goals.
• Ability to build teams, recognize, acquire, and retain talents.
• Sensitivity to cultural differences and understanding of the ethical issues surrounding research and surveillance
• Must be able to read, write, and speak fluent English; fluency in another language is a plus (e.g. French, Portuguese, Spanish)

Travel Requirements:

• Up to 50% national and/or international travel.

Typical Physical Demands:

• Typical office environment.
• Ability to sit and stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift 5-50 lbs.

Technology to be Used:

• Personal Computer, Microsoft Office (i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.), e-mail, cell phones, PDAs and other hand held devices.

This job posting summarizes the main duties of the job. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks that may be assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.

FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer whereby we do not engage in practices that discriminate against any person employed or seeking employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.

FHI 360 fosters the strength and health of its workforce through a competitive benefits package, professional development and policies and programs that support a healthy work/life balance. Join our global workforce to make a positive difference for others — and yourself.

Please click here to continue searching FHI 360’s Career Portal.

About the Organization

FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Our staff includes experts in health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, civil society, gender, youth, research, technology, communication and social marketing — creating a unique mix of capabilities to address today's interrelated development challenges. FHI 360 serves more than 60 countries and all U.S. states and territories.

As we evolve to meet the challenges of the future, we stand committed to the principles that have guided our organization for the last 40+ years. Our work continues to be grounded in research and science, strengthened by partnerships and focused on building the capacity of individuals, communities and countries to succeed.

FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer whereby we do not engage in practices that discriminate against any person employed or seeking employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information or any other status or characteristic protected under applicable law.

FHI 360 will never ask you for your career site username or password, and we will never request money, goods or services during the application, recruitment or employment process. If you have questions or concerns about correspondence from us, please email CareerCenterSupport@fhi360.org.