UNHCRUnknownHealth

Preparation Guide

Public Health Officer — UNHCR

15 days until deadline (14 June 2026)

Expected Timeline

Based on the position grade (unknown), contract type (Other), and UNHCR's typical recruitment process.

Apply15d left
Screening2-4 weeks
Assessment2-4 weeks
References1-2 weeks
Offer2-4 weeks
Estimated total process: 2-4 months

Note: UN recruitment timelines vary significantly. Some positions may take longer due to roster reviews, budget approvals, or geographic representation considerations.

Assessment Predictor

Based on the grade level, contract type, and position profile, expect the following evaluations:

Written TestCompetency-Based InterviewTechnical InterviewPresentation / Case StudyLanguage Assessment
Competency-Based Interview (CBI)

The UN uses the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare 2-3 concrete examples for each competency listed below. Focus on recent professional experiences (last 5 years).

Written Assessment

Typically a timed exercise (1-2 hours) testing analytical writing, policy analysis, or technical knowledge relevant to the role. Practice writing concise, structured responses under time pressure.

Competency Breakdown

These competencies were extracted from the vacancy announcement. Prepare STAR-format examples for each.

CoreCommunication
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a time when you had to convey complex technical information to a non-specialist audience. How did you adapt your message?
CorePlanning and Organizing
STAR Method Prompt:Give an example of a time when you managed multiple competing priorities with tight deadlines.
CoreAccountability
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you took responsibility for a mistake or an unsuccessful outcome. What did you learn?
FunctionalProgramme Management
STAR Method Prompt:Give an example of how you managed a large programme with multiple workstreams.
FunctionalProject Management
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a project you managed from inception to completion — what were the key challenges?
FunctionalResults-Based Management
FunctionalNegotiation
STAR Method Prompt:Give an example of a negotiation where you reached a mutually beneficial outcome.
FunctionalResource Mobilization
FunctionalMonitoring and Evaluation
FunctionalCoordination
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a time when you coordinated activities across multiple teams or organizations.

Required Skills & Technical Knowledge

GovernanceDesignProgramme ManagementProject ManagementMonitoring and EvaluationData AnalysisBudgetingWASHProtectionPsychosocial SupportEpidemiologyPublic HealthHealth SystemsDisease SurveillanceNutritionReproductive HealthMental HealthPublic Health ProgrammingPartnership ManagementProject ImplementationUndergraduate DegreeFamiliarity with humanitarian

Position Profile

Grade—
SeniorityUnknown
Role TypeHealth
ContractOther
Education—
Experience—
LanguagesEnglish
View full vacancy Apply now

Preparation Checklist

  • Prepare 2-3 STAR stories for each competency (10 total)
  • Research UNHCR's latest strategic plan and priorities
  • Prepare a concise 2-minute "Tell me about yourself" response
  • Practice analytical writing under time pressure (1-2 hours)
  • Read recent news and developments about UNHCR
  • Prepare 3-4 questions to ask the interview panel
  • Review the UN common system values and organizational culture

Pro Tips

  • UN interviews are competency-based — they ask for specific examples, not hypothetical scenarios.
  • Use the STAR method: Situation → Task → Action → Result.
  • Show how your experience aligns with the UN values: integrity, professionalism, respect for diversity.
  • Be specific and quantify your achievements when possible.
  • Mention experience working in multicultural environments — it's highly valued.