Job Description

Position: Environmental Health Officer

Location: Jowhar/Mogadishu, Somalia

Duration: 8 months, renewable based on performance, funds, and need for the position

Closing date: 4th May 2024

Organization: Alight

About Alight:

Alight is an international humanitarian organization dedicated to guiding displaced individuals through the journey from vulnerability to resilience, impoverishment to well-being, and exclusion to inclusion. Committed to co-designing solutions with a focus on radical accountability, Alight is a global force in building meaningful lives for and with displaced communities, implementing high-quality programs and services – all while developing trusting local partnerships that build resilience and shifts power back into the hands of local communities, where it belongs.

Role Overview: 

Environmental Health will protect public health and the environment by ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, conducting assessments to identify potential hazards, implementing mitigation strategies, promoting sustainable practices, and responding to environmental emergencies. 

Primary Responsibilities: 

• Conduct inspections of health facilities, establishments, and public spaces to ensure compliance with environmental health regulations, codes, and standards.
• Review and assess permits, licenses, and applications to ensure compliance with environmental laws and regulations.
• Perform environmental assessments and risk evaluations to identify potential health hazards and environmental impacts.
• Collect samples of air, water, soil, and food for analysis to detect pollutants, contaminants, and other hazardous substances.
• Analyze data and interpret findings to assess the environmental quality and potential health risks.
• Investigate complaints and reports related to environmental hazards, pollution incidents, or public health concerns.
• Identify sources of pollution or contamination and implement measures to mitigate risks to public health and the environment.
• Participate in the development, review, and revision of environmental health policies, regulations, and guidelines.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, assessments, and enforcement actions using appropriate databases and software systems.
• Prepare and submit reports detailing findings, recommendations, and compliance status to regulatory authorities, stakeholders, and the public as required.
• Stay abreast of developments, trends, and best practices in environmental health, regulatory compliance, and public health through ongoing training, professional development activities, and networking.
• Maintain relevant certifications, licenses, and continuing education requirements to ensure competency and proficiency in the field.
• Provide regular on job trainings on waste management to health teams in the project area.

Experiences and Qualifications

Qualifications: 

• ·       Bachelor’s degree in environmental health.
• ·       Bachelor’s degree in public health.
• ·       Bachelor's degree in medical and surgery.
• ·       Previous experience in environmental assessments, inspections, and sample analysis.
• ·       Knowledge of environmental health regulations, pollution prevention, and risk assessment.
• ·       Strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• ·       Familiarity with GIS software and laboratory procedures.
• ·       Understanding of public health concepts and emerging environmental issues.
• ·       Training experience and community education skills
• ·       Ability to write clear and concise reports.
• ·       Able to work under pressure.
• ·       Ability to work with a team and excellent communication skills.
• ·       Strong communication skills, in written and spoken English.
• ·       Experience in establishing strong working relationships with colleagues from different functions.
• ·       Experience in proactively identifying and addressing issues.
•   

Key Behaviors & Abilities: 

• ·          Previous experience within a humanitarian aid organization.
• ·          Previous experience within the region
• ·          Excellent computer skills to allow reporting and representation.
• ·          Ability to remain calm and to be diplomatic, both with the local health authorities and with the community.
• ·          Good organizational skills.

Skills Required

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