Application Guide

How to Apply for EPI Officer

at International Rescue Committee (IRC)

🏢 About International Rescue Committee (IRC)

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization that responds to the world's worst crises, delivering life-saving aid and long-term support to refugees and displaced people. Working at IRC means being part of a dedicated team that makes a tangible difference in the lives of millions, with a strong commitment to impact, innovation, and diversity.

About This Role

As an EPI Officer (likely Expanded Programme on Immunization), you will support the planning, implementation, and monitoring of immunization programs in crisis-affected settings. This role is critical for preventing disease outbreaks and reducing child mortality, directly contributing to IRC's mission of saving lives and strengthening health systems.

💡 A Day in the Life

You might start by checking emails from field teams and reviewing immunization coverage data from the previous week. Then, you could join a virtual meeting with partners to plan a vaccination campaign, followed by analyzing cold chain reports to identify supply gaps. The afternoon could involve drafting a donor report or updating guidelines for vaccine delivery in hard-to-reach areas.

🚀 Application Tools

Generate Cover Letter

AI-powered, tailored for International Rescue Committee (IRC)

Interview Prep

Practice questions for this role

🎯 Who International Rescue Committee (IRC) Is Looking For

  • Has experience in public health, epidemiology, or immunization programs, preferably in humanitarian or low-resource settings.
  • Demonstrates strong project management skills, including planning, monitoring, and reporting.
  • Is proficient in data analysis and use of health information systems (e.g., DHIS2) to track immunization coverage.
  • Possesses excellent communication and cross-cultural collaboration skills, with ability to work remotely with diverse teams.

📝 Tips for Applying to International Rescue Committee (IRC)

1

Tailor your CV to highlight specific experience in immunization campaigns, cold chain management, or outbreak response.

2

Include quantifiable achievements, such as 'Increased vaccination coverage by X% in Y population within Z months'.

3

Mention any familiarity with IRC's health programs or core commitments to gender equality and protection.

4

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your skills to the EPI role's impact on child survival and disease prevention.

5

Proofread for accuracy, especially when describing technical terms like 'EPI' and 'cold chain'.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Emphasize your passion for humanitarian work and alignment with IRC's mission and values.", 'Highlight specific experience with immunization or disease surveillance in challenging environments.', 'Showcase your ability to work remotely and coordinate with field teams across time zones.', 'Demonstrate understanding of EPI challenges in crisis settings, such as vaccine hesitancy or supply chain disruptions.']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review IRC's health strategy and recent reports on immunization projects in countries like Syria, South Sudan, or Bangladesh.
  • → Familiarize yourself with IRC's 'Outcome and Evidence Framework' and how they measure health impact.
  • → Understand the Global Vaccine Action Plan and IRC's role in achieving its goals.
  • → Check IRC's current job openings and news about their health programs to show awareness.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you adapt an immunization plan for a conflict-affected area with limited access?
2 Describe your experience with vaccine cold chain management and how you ensured vaccine potency.
3 How do you use data to monitor immunization coverage and identify low-performing areas?
4 Give an example of a time you collaborated with local health authorities or community leaders.
5 How do you stay updated on WHO/UNICEF immunization guidelines and apply them in practice?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using a generic cover letter that doesn't mention IRC or EPI specifically.
  • Overlooking the remote work aspect – failing to demonstrate self-discipline and communication skills for remote collaboration.
  • Ignoring the humanitarian context – not showing understanding of working in insecure or resource-limited settings.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to International Rescue Committee (IRC)!

← Back to Job Listing Apply Now →