Health Officer (Immunization), NO-2, Fixed Term Position, Fiji (Pacific Islands) - MCP, Tarawa, Kiribati, #00134962

Position Overview

UNICEF is seeking a dedicated and highly motivated Health Officer (Immunization) to join our team in Tarawa, Kiribati. This fixed-term position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the health and wellbeing of children and women in the Pacific region, working within a dynamic and culturally diverse environment. As part of UNICEF’s Pacific Multi-Country Office (MCO), this role is based in the Kiribati Field Office, where you will collaborate closely with government counterparts, development partners, and communities to strengthen immunization services and achieve measurable results for vulnerable populations.

About UNICEF in the Pacific

UNICEF operates in 14 Pacific Island countries and territories, including Kiribati, where we are committed to advancing the rights and wellbeing of children and adolescents. Our work spans critical areas such as health, nutrition, education, child protection, climate resilience, and social policy. With nearly 40% of the region’s population under 18, our efforts are pivotal in shaping healthier, safer, and more inclusive futures for children across the Pacific. Kiribati, classified as a Fragile State, faces unique challenges, including geographic isolation and service delivery constraints, making this role both impactful and rewarding.

Key Responsibilities

The Health Officer (Immunization) will play a central role in the planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of health programme activities, with a specific focus on immunization. Your responsibilities will include:

• Programme Development and Planning: Assist in the design, development, and review of health and immunization strategies, ensuring alignment with national priorities and UNICEF’s global standards. Contribute to the formulation of evidence-based policies and programmes that address the unique health needs of Kiribati’s population.
• Programme Management and Delivery: Oversee the implementation of immunization initiatives, including vaccine procurement, cold chain management, and service delivery. Monitor progress against targets and ensure timely reporting to stakeholders, including government agencies and development partners.
• Technical and Operational Support: Provide expert guidance to national counterparts and local health authorities on immunization best practices, including disease surveillance, outbreak response, and community engagement strategies. Support capacity-building efforts to strengthen local health systems and workforce capabilities.
• Networking and Partnership Building: Foster strategic partnerships with government ministries, non-governmental organizations, and international agencies to enhance collaboration and resource mobilization. Represent UNICEF in technical working groups and forums to advocate for child health priorities.
• Innovation and Knowledge Management: Identify opportunities for innovation in immunization service delivery, such as digital health solutions or community-based approaches. Contribute to knowledge-sharing initiatives and capacity-building activities to improve programme effectiveness and sustainability.

Qualifications and Competencies

To excel in this role, you will possess the following qualifications and skills:

• A Master’s degree in Public Health, Medicine, Nursing, Epidemiology, or a related field is required. A degree in a relevant discipline with additional specialized training in immunization or public health will be considered.
• Minimum of two years of progressively responsible professional experience in health programme management, immunization, or a closely related field. Experience in the Pacific region or small island developing states is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated expertise in immunization programme design, implementation, and monitoring, including vaccine-preventable disease surveillance and outbreak response.
• Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and development partners.
• Proficiency in English is essential. Knowledge of Kiribati or other Pacific Island languages is an advantage.
• Commitment to UNICEF’s core values, including integrity, respect, and accountability, and a passion for advancing children’s rights and wellbeing.

Why Join UNICEF?

Working with UNICEF offers a rare opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and communities. As part of our team, you will benefit from:

• A diverse and inclusive work environment that values collaboration, innovation, and professional growth.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package, including housing allowances, health insurance, and education support for dependents.
• Access to training and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career in international development.
• The chance to contribute to global initiatives that prioritize equity, inclusion, and sustainability for future generations.

If you are a committed professional with a passion for public health and a desire to create positive change in the Pacific, we encourage you to apply for this impactful role. Join us in our mission to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.