The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is recruiting professionals for two positions in Tanzania, covering digital innovation in Dar es Salaam and public health programme management in Zanzibar. Both positions are fixed-term appointments within UNICEF’s Eastern and Southern Africa Region.
The vacancies are open at different National Officer levels. The Innovation Officer position requires at least two years of relevant professional experience, while the Health Specialist role requires a minimum of five years. Applications close on 14 October 2026 for the Health Specialist and 23 October 2026 for the Innovation Officer, both at 11:55 PM East Africa Time.
UNICEF works to protect children’s rights and improve their access to essential services, including healthcare, education and protection. In Tanzania, its programmes also use digital technologies, partnerships and evidence-based approaches to strengthen services for children, adolescents and families.
Dar es Salaam | Fixed-Term Appointment | Job No. 596205
UNICEF Tanzania is seeking an Innovation Officer to support digital transformation and technology-driven programmes that improve services and opportunities for children and young people.
Working within the Digital Impact & Innovation Unit, the successful candidate will help programme teams develop, implement and expand digital solutions that strengthen youth participation, service delivery and access to information.
The position involves working with digital engagement and real-time monitoring platforms such as U-Report and RapidPro, alongside other Technology for Development (T4D) initiatives. The officer will also contribute to partnerships with government institutions, civil society, academia and the private sector.
Another important aspect of the role is promoting the responsible use of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, with attention to data protection, inclusion, transparency and children’s rights.
Minimum qualifications and experience
A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology Management, Business Administration or a related social science field.
At least two years of relevant experience in IT management, digital transformation, large-scale innovation, T4D projects, ICT procurement or contract management, business operations or a related field.
Demonstrated ability to plan and implement digital or innovation initiatives, build capacity and transfer knowledge.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Certification or proven experience in a relevant area, such as digital programme management, human-centred design, data analytics for development, digital engagement platforms or ICT project management.
Fluency in English.
Knowledge of Kiswahili or another official United Nations language is an advantage. UNICEF also considers experience with responsible AI, digital ethics, data governance, automation and humanitarian or public-sector programmes desirable.
Application deadline: 23 October 2026, 11:55 PM East Africa Time.
View the Innovation Officer vacancy and apply
Zanzibar | Fixed-Term Appointment | Job No. 596141
UNICEF Tanzania is also recruiting a Health Specialist to support the planning, implementation and management of health programmes in Zanzibar.
The successful candidate will work under the general supervision of the Chief of the Zanzibar Office, with technical guidance from the Chief of the Health Section.
The position focuses on improving health outcomes for children and families through effective programme management, technical support, monitoring and collaboration with relevant institutions.
Key responsibilities include supporting health programme development and planning, monitoring implementation, evaluating results and preparing progress reports. The specialist will also contribute to partnerships, institutional capacity building and initiatives related to maternal, neonatal and child health.
Minimum qualifications and experience
A master’s degree or equivalent advanced university degree in Public Health, Environmental Science or Health, Nutrition, Paediatrics, Global Health, Health Policy or a related field.
At least five years of relevant professional experience in public health or nutrition planning and management, maternal and neonatal healthcare, health emergency or humanitarian preparedness, or a related field.
Technical expertise in primary healthcare programming and health systems strengthening.
Proficiency or fluency in English.
Experience with a United Nations agency, country-level development programmes or humanitarian operations is an advantage. Knowledge of another official UN language is also desirable.
UNICEF particularly encourages eligible and suitably qualified Tanzanian national candidates to apply for this position.
Application deadline: 14 October 2026, 11:55 PM East Africa Time.
View the Health Specialist vacancy and apply
Applications for both positions are submitted through UNICEF’s official online recruitment system.
Candidates should open the vacancy page corresponding to their preferred position, review the complete job description and select the Apply now option. Applicants can then follow the recruitment portal instructions to complete their application.
The two positions have separate job references, eligibility requirements and application deadlines. Candidates should therefore check the relevant vacancy carefully before submitting their information.
UNICEF does not charge application, interview, recruitment or appointment fees. Applicants should use the official UNICEF Careers website and avoid individuals or organisations requesting payment in connection with these vacancies.
Both positions are subject to UNICEF’s recruitment and safeguarding procedures, including appropriate background and reference checks.
