PAHO Consultant - Communicable Diseases

OBJECTIVE OF THE OFFICE/DEPARTMENT

This is a requisition for employment at the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/Regional Office of the World Health Organization (WHO)

Contractual Agreement:

Non-Staff - International PAHO Consultant

Job Posting:

February 26, 2026

Closing Date:

April 2, 2026, 11:59 PM Eastern Time

Primary Location:

Off Site

Organization:

CDE Communicable Diseases Prevention, Control, and Elimination

Schedule:

Full time

PURPOSE OF CONSULTANCY

This requisition is for a consultancy at the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/Regional Office of the World Health Organization (WHO).

International PAHO Consultant (IPC): Technical support to advance the elimination of HIV in the CARICOM Member States

Duration 15 March to 10 December 2026

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:

Background

A major objectivity of PAHO is the elimination of HIV in the Americas. In the Caribbean there are various advancements that are supporting the elimination of HIV as a public health threat in the sub-region. Over the years a number of countries have received certification for the EMTCT of HIV and syphilis, a first step in advance to the elimination of HIV. In addition, the sub-region has also been implementing interventions to address HIV advance diseases, also a critical element in ending AIDs in the Caribbean. As the region push forward to achieve the commitments approved by CARICOM Member States, there are two major initiatives under way, which will collectively support the ending of AIDS.

In 2024 through the United Nation Office of South-South Cooperation, and with funding from the Indian Development Foundation, funds were approved for the implementation of a project to focus on the strengthening of the EMTCT Plus strategy within MCH. One of the key actions under the project is to establish a Community of Practices for Maternal and Child Health (MCH) to facilitate the sharing of experiences and lessons learned from the implementation of the EMTCT strategy, while increasing knowledge on new recommendations and technologies.

The knowledge sharing events will continue with the networking of health care providers from MCH across the 15 Caribbean countries. The CCoP which was  formalized  in 2025 and is expected to foster engagement with MCH health workers across the Caribbean,  share experiences and good practices that have resulted in the reduction of perinatal transmission for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B, provide a structured platform for peer-to-peer learning and technical exchange among Caribbean countries, while facilitating constructive feedback and shared learning as part of South-South learning.

Several mechanisms will be established for ongoing communication and sharing of experiences and lessons learned, using an appropriate virtual platform that is accessible to all, so as to ensure regular and timely technical updates. The community of practice will also facilitate mentorship,  serving  to support countries validated to build capacity in areas critical to the strengthening of the health system that will support MCH to lead and sustain the gains.

In addition to the above-mentioned CCoP, in late 2025, a similar was organized to address clinical aspects of HIV care and treatment.  This CCoP is a network that brings together regional experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to share knowledge, foster engagement, and develop strategies aimed at reducing HIV-related mortality by addressing Advanced HIV Disease. A team of HIV experts with extensive knowledge and experiences of the HIV epidemic in the Caribbean will collectively support the network to ensure that knowledge shared is evidence-based, timely and relevant to the Region.

There is a need to synergize the two CCoPs to ensure they are not parallel, but there are synergistic and will enhance the overall experience of the Caribbean.

As a result, PAHO is contracting a consultant to carry out the functions of the two CCOPs in a synergistic manner, while identifying actions for sustainability.

The purpose of this consultancy is to contract an international Professional Consultant to support PAHO activities in the Caribbean to support elimination of HIV in the Caribbean.

Scope of work:

Under the technical guidance of the Advisors for Care and treatment from PAHO Headquarters and the HIV/STI from the Caribbean Office, the Consultant is expected to:

1.        Develop a nine -month work plan which will integrate the activities of both CCoPs.

2.        Support the coordination of the CCoP for advance HIV diseases in the Caribbean through:

a.         Coordination, organization and identification of thematic topics and speakers for the monthly scientific meetings for advanced HIV Disease and the EMTCT Plus in the Caribbean.

b.        Coordinate the monthly sessions for both initiatives (Advance HIV diseases & EMTCT Plus) and conduct the necessary follow-up based on the discussions and actions emanated from the discussions.

c.         Support countries in developing strategies that will translate learning into concrete actions to advance or sustain EMTCT status.

d.        Utilize the virtual platforms to strengthen peer review/discussions while allowing for networking, lesson learned and increases collaboration across the Caribbean within the context of south-south collaboration.

3.        Collect data from selected Caribbean countries (Belize, Barbados, Guyana, and Trinidad &Tobago) on advance HIV diseases and analyze the data accordingly.

4.        Disseminate and support countries (through the NAPs managers) with the adaptation of the HIV Mortality protocol, based on the generic document.

5.        Monthly meeting with PAHO experts involved in the project to determine progress, agree on monthly topics for the scientific fora, and to address potential challenges to may affect the successful implementation of the Community of Practice and the advancement toward the elimination of HIV.

6.        To ensure the timely and successfully completion of all the stated deliverables under the project.

Description of Deliverables:

Deliverables

 

For the period of the consultancy, the following are key deliveries:

1.        Submit a plan that details all key activities for implementation virtually in nine months that will facilitate the elimination of HIV and the sustainability of EMTCT Plus. To be completed by April 15 2026. – USD 4,986

2.        Develop and submit a comprehensive report of the activities and discussions from the CCoP discussions in the Caribbean. The report should detail the key outcomes and commitments. June 1, 2026 – USD 8,514

3.        Report on data reported from selected countries on Advance HIV Disease; providing an  analysis of the data reported and EMTCT establishment of knowledge repository  for EMTCT. August 15, 2026 – USD 4,644

4.        Report on the CCoP activities, emphasizing the manner in which south-south cooperation was encouraged and supported, especially EMTCT Plus, while contributing to the elimination of HIV and the sustainability EMTCT.  October 15, 2026 – USD 4,470

5.        Final consultancy report which details the overall impact of the CCoP in the Caribbean and the manner in which it will facilitate the elimination of HIV in the Caribbean. December, 10 2026 – USD 4,386

Performance Evaluation:

The consultant’s performance will be evaluated at the end of the consultancy. The performance evaluation process will include an open dialogue with the project manager and a participatory review that will touch upon the technical expertise.

The performance evaluation will evaluate the timeliness and the quality of the submitted deliverables, as indicated in this Terms of Reference, as well as the proactivity of the consultant in planning, organizing and compiling work for submission. The consultant will need to ensure that the work is complete and accurate and will need to be Conscientious and alert in the establishment and meeting project-related timelines.

Ownership:

All products and materials resulting from this contract are the property of PAHO/WHO and are subject to the rules and regulations governing copyrights. The Consultant may not make use of information gathered during this project without the written consent of PAHO/WHO.

Supervisor:

The project manager for this activity is Omar Suede, care and treatment Advisor, HIV PAHO Washington DC.

Location:

Remote

Travel:

There will be no travel under this consultancy.

Reporting requirements:

The Consultant will report to the Project Manager on the progress of the project and outline any challenges that can potentially affect the work.

Qualifications, experience, skills and languages

Education:

Qualification/Experience:

 

·          Master’s degree in public health, project management or other related field.

·          9 years of public health experience with emphasis in HIV/STI  prevention and treatment.

Experience:

·          Experience in conducting online capacity building and knowledge sharing.

·          Extensive experience in leadership and in the management of projects.

·          Strong knowledge of HIV and STIs in the Caribbean and the EMTCT strategy

·          Knowledge of the Caribbean public health context and key stakeholders is critical

·          Experience in the organization of multi-country and international public health events in the Caribbean is a requirement.

·          Strong organization and facilitation skills; can work as a team

·          The ability to work independently with limited guidance, is proactive and can organize and facilitate meetings with key stakeholders.

·          Flexible and professional work ethics, with excellent people skills.

Technical knowledge/skills:

Skills:

·          Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

·          Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

·          Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results within established deadlines.

·          Ability to work collaboratively in a team.

·          Adaptability and flexibility to changing priorities and evolving programmatic needs.

·          Cultural sensitivity and ability to work effectively in diverse contexts.

·          Ethical conduct and integrity in handling sensitive information.

·          Additional Information

·          Any appointment or extension of appointment is subject to the PAHO/WHO Regulations and Electronic Manual.

·          For information about PAHO, please visit: http://www.paho.org.

·          PAHO/WHO is committed to the diversity of its workforce.

·          PAHO is an ethical organization that maintains high standards of integrity and accountability. Individuals joining PAHO are expected to uphold these standards in both their professional and personal activities.

·          PAHO also promotes a work environment free from harassment, sexual harassment, discrimination, and other forms of abusive behavior. PAHO conducts background checks and will not hire anyone with a proven history of abusive conduct.

·          PAHO staff frequently interact with people in the communities we serve. To protect these individuals, PAHO maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward sexual exploitation and abuse. Individuals who commit serious offenses will be dismissed from the organization and may also face criminal prosecution.

·          PAHO/WHO maintains a smoke-free environment and does not hire smokers or users of any form of tobacco.

·          Applications from women and nationals of unrepresented or underrepresented Member States are especially encouraged.

·          Consultants must perform work as independent contractors in their personal capacity, and not as representatives of any entity or authority. The performance of work under a consultancy contract does not create an employment relationship between PAHO and the consultant.

·          PAHO/WHO will not be liable for any taxes, duties, social security contributions, or other contributions payable by the consultant. The Consultant will be solely responsible for withholding and paying all taxes, duties, social security contributions and any other applicable contributions in each location or jurisdiction where the work is performed, and will not be entitled to any reimbursement from PAHO/WHO.

Language:

English: Fluent in written and oral comprehension.

Spanish: Fluent in written and oral comprehension.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• This vacancy notice may be used to identify candidates for other similar consultancies at the same level.
• Successful candidates will be placed on the roster and subsequently may be selected for consultancy assignments falling in this area of work or for similar requirements/tasks/deliverables.  Inclusion in the Roster does not guarantee selection for a consultant contract.  There is no commitment on either side.
• Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.
• All applicants are required to complete an on-line profile to be considered for this consultancy. For assessment of your application, please ensure that your profile in the PAHO Career page is updated; all experience records are entered with elaboration on tasks performed at the time.  Kindly note that CV/PHFs inserted via LinkedIn are no accessible.
• A written test may be used as a form of screening.
• If your candidature is retained for interview, you will be required to provide, in advance, a scanned copy of the degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificate(s) required for this position. PAHO/WHO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed through the link: http://www.whed.net/. PAHO will also use the databases of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation http://www.chea.org/search/default.asp and College Navigator, found on the website of the National Centre for Educational Statistics, https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator to support the validation process. Some professional certificates may not appear in the WHED and will require individual review.
• Any appointment/extension of appointment is subject to PAHO/WHO Regulations, and e-Manual.
• For information on PAHO please visit: http://www.paho.org
• PAHO/WHO is committed to providing a respectful and supportive workplace for all personnel .
• PAHO is an ethical organization that maintains high standards of integrity and accountability. People joining PAHO are required to maintain these standards both in their professional work and personal activities.
• PAHO also promotes a work environment that is free from harassment, sexual harassment, discrimination, and other types of abusive behavior. PAHO conducts background checks and will not hire anyone who has a substantiated history of abusive conduct.
• PAHO personnel interact frequently with people in the communities we serve. To protect these people, PAHO has zero tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse. People who commit serious wrongdoings will be terminated and may also face criminal prosecution.
• PAHO/WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of any form of tobacco.
• Applications from women and from nationals of non and underrepresented Member States are particularly encouraged.
• Consultants shall perform the work as independent contractors in a personal capacity, and not as a representative of any entity or authority.  The execution of the work under a consultant contract does not create an employer/employee relationship between PAHO and the Consultant.
• PAHO/WHO shall have no responsibility whatsoever for any taxes, duties, social security contributions or other contributions payable by the Consultant.  The Consultant shall be solely responsible for withholding and paying any taxes, duties, social security contributions and any other contributions which are applicable to the Consultant in each location/jurisdiction in which the work hereunder is performed, and the Consultant shall not be entitled to any reimbursement thereof by PAHO/WHO.