At MSF, we are committed to an inclusive culture that encourages and supports the diverse voices of our employees. We welcome applications from individuals of all genders, ages, sexual orientations, nationalities, races, religions, beliefs, ability status
MSF is composed of many different associations, offices and missions around the world. They each recruit their own staff according to local laws and customs but abide by the same general commitment to fair and transparent recruitment procedures.
A large part of MSF job vacancies, especially in countries of intervention, are only open to nationals and advertised locally.
Some MSF job opportunities around the world are open to people who live in other countries.
The recruitment of Internationally Mobile Staff (formerly known as “Expats”) follows a different procedure. Depending on their place of residence, the candidates will be asked to apply to a specific MSF office. (Use the below feature to see the office you need to contact).
Exception: Locally hired staff currently working or who worked less than 12 months ago with MSF should apply to their Operational Center.
Successful applicants to Internationally Mobile positions are then entered into a “pool” of available specialists before matching them to a specific position in a country of intervention, based on their skills, experience and background. MSF expects candidates to be flexible about where they will work so that we can meet the needs of the programs.
However, special skills, languages and restrictions are taken into consideration in each placement.
FAQs for Internationally Mobile Staff
Is there an age limit to working for MSF?
There is no maximum age limit for our field staff. Difficult working conditions do mean that applicants must be in a good state of health.
How long does the application process take?
It takes around four to six months from the submission of an application to eventual addition to our pool of field staff.
When is the best time to apply?
You can apply as soon as you have definite dates of your availability, normally around six months before you want to start.
How long is an assignment?
Assignments are generally for between six and 12 months for all professions, except anaesthetists and surgeons who, due to the intensity of their work, are placed in projects for six weeks to three months.
What are the working hours?
Working hours vary considerably depending on the project with, on average, one day off per week. Work can frequently be hectic and you may be required to put in longer hours. However, time is normally set aside for rest and relaxation.
What if I am injured or become ill?
MSF will arrange and cover you for health insurance while on assignment. In the event of medical evacuations, repatriation is also covered.
Can couples go on assignment together? Can my family accompany me?
Individuals are matched to specific roles. It is therefore highly unlikely that two people would simultaneously be matched to two jobs in the same place at the same time.
Living conditions in the field (security, housing, etc) make it difficult for field staff to be accompanied by children or partners who are not participating in the project.
May I request placement in a specific country?
It is not possible to honour specific country requests. MSF recruits applicants into a pool before matching them to a specific position based on their skills, experience and background. MSF expects candidates to be flexible about where they work so that we can meet the needs of the field. However, special skills, languages and restrictions are taken into consideration in each placement.