About the opportunity
The WHO Health Emergencies Programme works to help countries coordinate international actions to prevent, prepare for, detect, rapidly respond to, and recover from outbreaks and emergencies. As Health Cluster Coordinator at the P4 grade, the incumbent leads an interagency team to promote humanitarian and public health principles, ensuring a coordinated health sector response. Reporting to the Head of the WHO Country Office through the WHE Lead, the role encompasses leading rapid health needs assessments, developing strategic response plans (HNO/HRP), managing resource mobilization including CERF and pooled funds, coordinating health cluster partners, and overseeing monitoring and advocacy across inter-cluster mechanisms.
Salary and benefits
- Grade P4 temporary appointment under Staff Rule 420.4 for a duration of 2 years
- Competitive UN/WHO salary and benefits package
- Parental leave and attractive flexible work arrangements to promote work-life balance
Who can apply?
- An advanced university degree (Master's level or above) in public health, medicine, international health, management, social sciences, or a related field
- At least seven (7) years of relevant experience at national and international levels in developing collaborative partnerships in emergency and humanitarian relief operations, including managing health programs in chronic and acute emergencies
- Excellent knowledge of English; working knowledge of French is desirable
- Demonstrated knowledge of rapid response operations, emergency relief policies within the UN system, and the incident management system
- Must be expected to complete the term of appointment before reaching the statutory retirement age of 65
- Non-smoker or user of any form of tobacco (WHO maintains a smoke-free environment)
- Compliance with WHO vaccination requirements prior to taking up the assignment, including yellow fever vaccination if required
Required documents
- Scanned copies of required degree(s), diploma(s), or certificate(s) from a WHED-accredited institution (required in advance if retained for an interview)
- Copy of updated vaccination card during the medical clearance process
When to apply
- Job posted: September 8, 2026
- Closing date: September 28, 2026, 9:59:00 PM UTC
How to apply
- Apply online through the official WHO careers portal for Job Number 2603877
- Undergo screening, which may include a written test and/or an asynchronous video assessment for shortlisted candidates
- Provide academic credentials and undergo background verification if retained for an interview
Additional information
- Staff members separated due to the 2025 Prioritization and Realignment Process will receive special consideration according to the regulatory framework
- This vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level
- Persons with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations by emailing reasonableaccommodation@who.int with their full name, vacancy number 2603877, and specific details needed
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Master's degree in public health, medicine, or international health.
- 7+ years of experience in humanitarian relief and emergency operations.
- Fluent in English, with French skills being a desirable asset.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a temporary appointment for 2 years rather than a permanent position.
- Location is on-site in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is perfect for those aiming to lead interagency health emergency responses and manage resource mobilization in a complex humanitarian setting.
Our take
Public health or medicine experts with extensive humanitarian relief experience should apply, especially those comfortable with a temporary, high-pressure emergency response role.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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