Public Health Officer (BPS-17): Overview, Eligibility, & How to Apply

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1. Role & Significance

A Public Health Officer (BS-17) is crucial to Pakistan’s healthcare infrastructure. Typically, they are involved in managing public health programs, overseeing disease surveillance, organizing vaccination campaigns, conducting health education, and supporting policy implementation at provincial or federal levels (e.g., under health departments or the Ministry of Health).

Relevant roles can include positions like Health Education & Nutrition Officer or District Population Welfare Officer, which have been advertised at BS-17 scale in departments across Gilgit Baltistan and Punjab ShakirJobs.Com – Jobs in Pakistan.

2. Eligibility & Qualifications

While criteria vary by department, common requirements include:

  • Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (16 years of education) in relevant fields such as Public Health, Health Sciences, Sociology, Social Work, Nutrition, or related disciplines
  • Age Limit: Generally between 22–30 years, with a standard 5-year age relaxation for eligible candidates
  • Professional Requirements: For specialized roles, proof of experience, relevant departmental registration, or training in health management may be required.

A Reddit user summarized a similar standard for eligibility (in a different context), stating:

“Eligibility requirements for Public Health Officer: … Master Degree in Public Health (MPH/MSPH) plus … 2 years of public health related work experience,” or a relevant BS degree with similar experience

3. How to Apply

Most of these roles are advertised via the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC):

  1. Check for Advertisements
    Visit the FPSC website and look for relevant job postings, such as those under Health Departments or Population Welfare categories.
  2. Online Application
    • Register on FPSC’s online recruitment portal.
    • Fill out the application form, select the position, and upload documents (degree, CNIC, photos, domicile).
    • Pay the required fee via bank challan following FPSC guidelines
  3. Written Exam & Interview
    Shortlisted candidates are called for written assessments and interviews. The process follows typical FPSC selection procedures.
  4. Training & Posting
    Successful candidates are appointed at federal or provincial healthcare institutions according to their merit and regional quota.

4. Application Tips

  • Craft your CV with emphasis on relevant academic background and any public health or field experience.
  • Be vigilant about FPSC or relevant health department announcements to avoid missing deadlines.
  • Prepare for assessments by brushing up on public health policies, administrative procedures, and general knowledge.
  • Keep your documents ready (e.g., degree, CNIC, domicile, photo) for timely submission.

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