Special Services Agreement (SSA) – Health Programme Officer, Papua New Guinea

About the opportunity

The World Health Organization (WHO) is seeking a Health Programme Officer under a Special Services Agreement (SSA) to provide technical assistance, operational coordination, and field-level support to Provincial Health Authorities in Papua New Guinea. The role focuses on strengthening primary health care through two key pillars: immunization and vaccine-preventable disease surveillance, and integrated primary health care. The incumbent will work closely with the WHO Country Office, National Department of Health, provincial and district health authorities, and partners to improve health service delivery in rural and remote settings across six provinces, the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, and the National Capital District.

Salary and benefits

• Monthly remuneration ranging from PGK 9,000 to PGK 10,000, based on qualifications, experience, and demonstrated competencies.
• Opportunity to gain professional experience and capacity building through supportive supervision, coaching, and a twinned arrangement with WHO technical staff or international affiliates.

Who can apply?

• First-level university degree (bachelor’s degree or equivalent) or a diploma in Public Health, Nursing, Medicine, Health Management, Social Sciences, or a related discipline from a recognized institution.
• Pathway A (Emerging Leaders): A recently completed bachelor's degree (within the last 3 years) with strong academic standing, demonstrated leadership in student, community, or volunteer health activities, and a clear motivation to serve rural and provincial communities in Papua New Guinea.
• Pathway B (Experienced Practitioners): At least three years of relevant work experience in public health, community health, or development programme implementation, preferably at the provincial level, including exposure to programme coordination, field logistics, or facility-level support.
• Expert knowledge of spoken and written English.

Required documents

• Scanned copies of degree(s), diploma(s), or certificate(s) required for the position (if retained for interview).
• Updated vaccination card for medical clearance.

When to apply

• Job opening date: August 26, 2026
• Closing date: September 9, 2026, at 9:59 PM

How to apply

• Click the 'Apply Online' button on the official WHO careers portal.
• Submit your candidate profile and complete the online application form before the deadline.

Additional information

• This vacancy notice may be used to identify candidates for other similar consultancies at the same level.
• A written test may be used as a screening tool.
• The assignment is expected to run for a total of 12 months, with a six-month initial probation period.
• SSAs perform work as independent contractors in a personal capacity and are solely responsible for withholding and paying any applicable taxes or social security contributions.
• WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of any form of tobacco.