Health Specialist (Public Health Emergency) – P-3 (Temporary)

About the role

Under the supervision of the Chief of Health and Nutrition, the Health Specialist (Public Health Emergency) at UNICEF provides technical leadership and programme management for pandemic preparedness and response in Angola. The temporary P‑3 position focuses on implementing Pandemic Fund‑supported interventions and WASH activities in emergencies, strengthening early warning systems and ensuring UNICEF’s readiness to detect and respond to public health threats.

Key responsibilities

• Lead planning, implementation and monitoring of Pandemic Fund‑supported activities, aligning them with national strategies and UNICEF frameworks.
• Support the National Directorate of Public Health to develop and operationalise integrated early warning and early action systems, including event‑based surveillance.
• Coordinate multi‑sectoral pandemic preparedness interventions with government, WHO, FAO and other partners.
• Contribute to strengthening resilient health systems in line with International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) and global health security frameworks.
• Provide technical guidance for WASH interventions in emergency settings and ensure alignment with Sustainable Development Goals.

Required profile

• Advanced university degree in public health, epidemiology, health systems or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in pandemic preparedness, emergency health response or WASH in emergencies.
• Demonstrated experience working with national health authorities and international organisations.
• Strong understanding of IHR 2005, early warning systems and integrated health‑security approaches.

Required skills

• Technical expertise in public health emergency preparedness and response.
• Knowledge of Pandemic Fund mechanisms and WASH emergency interventions.
• Ability to design and implement early warning and event‑based surveillance systems.
• Experience coordinating multi‑sectoral programmes with government and UN agencies.

What we offer

• Opportunity to contribute to national and global health security in a challenging environment.
• Professional development within a leading international organisation.
• Competitive temporary contract with benefits aligned with UNICEF standards.