Consultant for TECHNICAL SUPPORT IN MEDICAL OXYGEN SUPPLY SURGE CAPACITY IN HEALTH SERVICES NETWORKS

Objectives of the Department

The objective of the Health Emergencies Department (PHE) of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) is to increase health sector resilience to emergencies and disasters. PHE assists Member States to strengthen the health sector’s capacities in prevention, risk reduction, preparedness, surveillance, response, and early recovery for emergencies and disasters related to any hazards (natural, man-made, biological, chemical, radiological and others) and, when national capacities are overwhelmed, to lead and coordinate the international health response to contain disasters, including outbreaks, and to provide effective relief and recovery to affected populations. PHE is responsible for ensuring the implementation and updating of the PAHO/WHO Institutional Emergency and Disaster Response Policy.

Responsibilities:

Under the general supervision of the COVID-19 IMST and the direct supervision of the Regional Advisor on Emergency Medical Teams, the incumbent is responsible for, but not limited to, the following assigned duties:

a) Mapping of activities and suppliers and partners’ capacity in the production, distribution, and access to oxygen at the points of care, both at the regional and national levels

b) Consolidate guidance and good practices in the use of PSA generating plants, manifolds, concentrators, and other elements for the development of oxygen supply facilities

c) Development of guides, tools and materials on the maintenance and expansion of oxygen production and distribution capacities for comprehensive health services networks.

d) Facilitate virtual/face-to-face sessions for review and technical advice with national/local health authorities involved in oxygen supply

e) Participate in the planning and development of regional and national webinars for the exchange of knowledge and good practices in oxygen supply.

f) Facilitate post-action AAR reviews in oxygen supply

g) Technical support in other tasks related to strengthening the expansion of clinical care capacities during COVID-19.

Education requirements (Qualifications)

Essential: A bachelor’s degree in engineering or any other discipline related to functions of the position, from a recognized institution.

Desirable: A bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering with specialization courses and/or technical certification on medical gases and healthcare facilities (for example NFPA 99 – Medical Gas Systems, or AAMI & ACCE on Clinical Engineering).**

Experience requirements:

Essential: A minimum of 7 years of work experience on the design, installation, inspection, verification, and maintenance of medical gas and vacuum systems.

Desirable: International experience of work related to functions of the position and/or provable knowledge on PSA, VSA, and liquid oxygen plants will be considered as an asset. **

Languages

Essential: Very good knowledge of English or Spanish with working knowledge of the other language.

Desirable: Knowledge of French and/or Portuguese would be an asset.**

Technical Expertise: Clinical Engineering, Hospital Electrical Safety, Medical Gas Systems, Medical Equipment, Hospital Design, Maintenance Programs, among others.**

Location:

The incumbent will work remotely from his/her place of residency and travel may be required at the national and regional level.

Expected contract duration

From 8 October until 31 December 2021 with possibility of extension depending on performance and funding availability. This consultancy is expected to entail a part time commitment.