International Health Development Officer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of global health and wellness, the need for International Health Development Officers has become paramount.

As global health dynamics evolve, so does the demand for professionals who can cultivate, enhance, and protect the systems that sustain international health development.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an International Health Development Officer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the profile for the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the mechanisms of international health development,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable International Health Development Officer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in.

International Health Development Officer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated International Health Development Officer to manage and oversee our health projects worldwide.

The International Health Development Officer will be responsible for developing project strategies, coordinating with international partners, and ensuring that health initiatives align with our organization’s goals.

The ideal candidate possesses excellent leadership skills, has a deep understanding of global health issues and has experience working in international settings.

The primary aim of this role is to improve health outcomes and strengthen health systems in the communities we serve.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop strategies for health project implementation in line with organization’s objectives
• Coordinate with international partners to drive health initiatives
• Conduct research on global health issues to inform program development
• Monitor and evaluate project outcomes and adjust strategies as needed
• Build and maintain relationships with stakeholders and donors
• Represent the organization at international meetings and forums
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for management and stakeholders
• Stay up-to-date on current global health trends and practices

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in international health development or related field
• Strong understanding of global health issues and trends
• Experience in project management and implementation
• Excellent leadership and team coordination abilities
• Strong communication, negotiation, and presentation skills
• Ability to adapt to different cultural contexts
• Master’s degree in Public Health, International Development, or related field

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Travel opportunities
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: International Health Development Officer
• Work Environment: Office setting with frequent international travel.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of International Health Programs.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an International Health Development Officer Do?

International Health Development Officers primarily work for international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), or governmental agencies with a focus on global health issues.

Their role is to plan, manage, and implement health initiatives and development programs globally, particularly in developing and low-income countries.

These programs may target various health issues such as disease prevention and control, maternal and child health, nutrition, or public health emergencies.

An International Health Development Officer works closely with various stakeholders including healthcare professionals, government officials, community leaders, and donors.

They need to ensure that the programs are culturally sensitive, sustainable, and meet the health needs of the targeted populations.

They often conduct research and data analysis to identify health needs, monitor the progress of health initiatives, and measure their impact.

They also write reports and proposals, and present findings to various audiences.

In addition, they may be involved in fundraising, grant writing, budget management, and establishing partnerships with other organizations to increase the resources and impact of the health programs.

An International Health Development Officer’s role also includes advocating for health policies and regulations that improve health outcomes, and providing technical advice and capacity building to local health workers and organizations.

Their work requires a deep understanding of global health issues, strong project management skills, and the ability to work in diverse cultural settings.

It often involves travel to program sites, especially in developing countries.

 

International Health Development Officer Qualifications and Skills

An International Health Development Officer should possess skills and qualifications that are aligned with the demands of their role, such as:

• Extensive knowledge of global health issues, trends, and solutions, as well as familiarity with international health policies and regulations.
• Strong project management skills to oversee health development projects, including planning, coordinating, implementing, and evaluating each project efficiently.
• Excellent communication skills to liaise with various stakeholders, including government officials, healthcare providers, community leaders, and donors, and to present complex health information in a clear and concise manner.
• Interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with international partners, team members, and other stakeholders, promoting collaboration and mutual understanding.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify health challenges, strategize potential solutions, and oversee the implementation of these solutions.
• Research skills to stay updated with the latest developments in international health, and to conduct or assist in various studies or surveys as needed.
• Financial management skills to manage budgets, secure funding, and ensure that resources are used effectively and transparently.
• Cultural sensitivity and adaptability to work effectively in diverse cultural settings, respecting local customs and beliefs while promoting health development.

 

International Health Development Officer Experience Requirements

Aspiring International Health Development Officers should ideally have a Bachelor’s degree in fields such as Public Health, International Development, or a related field.

More senior roles often require a Master’s degree in Public Health or a related field.

Entry-level candidates may have one to two years of experience in health-related work, possibly through internships, volunteering, or part-time roles in international health organizations, NGOs, or health policy-making bodies.

Candidates with three to five years of experience often have a substantial foundation in international health development and have usually worked in roles like Health Policy Analyst, Health Advisor, or Project Coordinator.

They should be knowledgeable about health policies, project management, and may have experience working in developing countries or with international organizations.

Those with more than five years of experience typically have some leadership experience in their background and may be ready for managerial or team-lead positions.

They may have worked in roles such as Project Managers, Senior Health Advisors, or similar positions in international health development.

They usually have robust experience in policy-making, program development, and management, and have a deep understanding of global health issues and trends.

In addition, fluency in multiple languages, experience living or working abroad, and familiarity with different cultures are often required or highly desirable in this field, given the international scope of the role.

 

International Health Development Officer Education and Training Requirements

International Health Development Officers typically require a bachelor’s degree in international relations, public health, or a related field.

They should possess a comprehensive understanding of global health issues, health policy, and international development.

Many roles also require a master’s degree in public health (MPH), international development, or related disciplines.

Practical experience in international health, either through internships or work placements, is often highly valued by employers.

In addition to academic qualifications, language skills are often highly desirable, with many employers requiring fluency in a second language, particularly one relevant to the region where the officer will be working.

Certifications in project management, health management, or a related field can be beneficial.

Additionally, a successful International Health Development Officer should show evidence of cultural sensitivity, adaptability, and the ability to work in challenging environments.

These skills are often developed through fieldwork and practical experience.

Continuing professional development is crucial in this field due to the ever-changing landscape of global health and international development.

Therefore, ongoing training and staying updated on the latest research and trends in global health are important for career progression.

 

International Health Development Officer Salary Expectations

An International Health Development Officer earns an average salary of $77,814 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience in the field, educational qualifications, and the location of the job.

Additionally, the specific organization of employment can also greatly influence salary expectations.

 

International Health Development Officer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an International Health Development Officer need?

An International Health Development Officer should have a strong background in public health, excellent project management skills, and an understanding of international health policies.

They should also be able to communicate effectively with various stakeholders, have cultural sensitivity, and be willing to travel.

Proficiency in a foreign language can also be beneficial.

 

Do International Health Development Officers need a degree?

Yes, most International Health Development Officers hold at least a bachelor’s degree in public health, international relations, or a related field.

However, many organizations prefer candidates with a master’s degree in public health or a related field.

Relevant work experience in public health, particularly in an international context, is also highly valued.

 

What should you look for in an International Health Development Officer resume?

Look for a combination of education and relevant work experience in international public health.

The resume should detail the candidate’s knowledge and experience in implementing health programs, coordinating with international agencies, and working in diverse cultural settings.

Evidence of project management skills and proficiency in a foreign language would also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good International Health Development Officer?

A good International Health Development Officer is a strong leader, an effective communicator, and has a passion for improving public health on a global scale.

They need to be adaptable, able to handle complex situations, and have the cultural sensitivity to work with diverse populations.

They also need to have strong analytical skills to assess the needs of a community and develop effective health programs.

 

Is it difficult to hire International Health Development Officers?

Hiring an International Health Development Officer can be challenging due to the specific skill set required.

The role demands a combination of public health knowledge, international policy understanding, project management skills, and cultural sensitivity.

Given the international aspect of the role, fluency in one or more foreign languages is often a requirement, which can limit the pool of potential candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unfolded the true essence of being an International Health Development Officer.

Intriguing, isn’t it?

It’s not just about managing health programs.

It’s about constructing a healthier global future, one health project at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive International Health Development Officer job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make your mark.

But why stop here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. This is your stepping-stone to creating meticulous job listings or refining your resume to absolute precision.

Always remember:

Every health project contributes to the broader vision.

Let’s shape that healthier future. Together.

How to Become an International Health Development Officer (Complete Guide)

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