Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Recruitment 2025 | How to Apply, Roles & FAQs
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Recruitment 2025: Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, is a globally respected humanitarian NGO founded in 1971. With 70+ countries of operation, MSF delivers lifesaving medical care amid conflict, epidemics, disasters, and exclusion from South Sudan to Syria.
Each year, the organization recruits thousands of field staff, offering opportunities for medical and non-medical professionals to be part of vibrant humanitarian responses. Both international and locally hired roles support over 500 ongoing MSF missions.
Who Can Apply: Medical vs Non-Medical Roles
Medical Staff
MSF seeks qualified health professionals, including:
- Physicians (MD/DO), Anesthesiologists, Surgeons, Pediatricians
- Nurses, Midwives, Psychiatrists, IPC Specialists, Laboratory Technicians, Pharmacists
Typical requirements for Physicians:
- MD/DO with valid license, 2 years post-residency
- At least 6 months clinical practice in past 2 years
- Experience supervising teams and in emergency or public health
Non-Medical Staff
Includes roles like Communications Manager, HR/Finance Admins, Project Coordinators, Supply Chain and Logistics experts, and WASH specialists.
Common Eligibility Criteria
According to MSF’s recruitment guidelines (Middle East):
- Minimum 2 years of professional experience for most roles
- Nurses: 3 years experience
- Commitments range from 4 to 12 months depending on job
- B1-level English is essential; additional languages (French, Arabic, Spanish) are advantageous.
Field Experience & Special Skills
- Prior NGO/field experience is a big plus; 24+ months may unlock permanent contracts
- Medical specialties like obstetrics, pediatrics, emergency medicine, infectious disease, ICU care are prioritized.
Reddit insights:
“You can learn more through the site… Improving your language skills prior to applying is key… You need a lot of experience in your field.”
“Working for MSF is a deeply personal choice… despite such challenges … deeply rewarding, even life-changing.”
Also Read: Tenwek Hospital Recruitment | Application Portal, Eligibility & How to Apply
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
- Browse open roles on MSF’s global site or regional portals (https://www.msf.org/jobs).
- Check if you match the eligibility (experience, availability, language, medical credentials).
- Prepare documents: CV, cover letter, licenses, relevant certificates; don’t send prior to applying.
- Apply online through role-specific links and upload required documentation.
- Application review: technical and HR interviews.
- Training & briefing: once selected, staff undergo mission briefings and security training.
- Assignment: matched to field projects based on expertise and availability.
Application Timeline & Duration
- Application cycles are ongoing, new roles posted regularly.
- Readiness for assignment varies from 1 week to several months.
- Posted roles often include deadlines; e.g., Supply Chain Officer (Abuja) closes 31 May 2025. Field roles may be “until filled”.
FAQs
Q1: Entry-level roles for recent grads?
Very rare, MSF requires 2 to 3 years of professional experience.
Q2: Are assignments paid?
Yes, MSF staff are salaried and compensated, though not on par with corporate roles. Living essentials covered during field missions.
Q3: Can expats bring family?
Generally no, missions in remote or unstable zones make family relocation impractical.
Q4: Are women safe working with MSF?
Yes. MSF enforces strict anti-harassment policies and maintains a supportive environment.
Why Join MSF?
- Meaningful work: Respond in emergencies, your help saves lives.
- Professional growth: Gain autonomy and leadership responsibilities in high-stakes settings.
- Global teamwork: Collaborate with diverse peers worldwide.
- Humanitarian ethos: Strong principles and witness-driven mission.
Quick Summary Table
| Role Type | Requirements | Assignment Duration |
| Medical Staff | MD/DO, 2+ yrs experience, clinical practice | 9–12 months |
| Nursing Staff | Registered Nurse, ≥3 yrs experience | 6–12 months |
| Non-Medical Field Staff | 2+ yrs professional experience | 4–12 months |
| Logistic/Administrative | Degree/diploma + 2+ yrs experience | Varies |
Final Thoughts
Working with Médicins Sans Frontières isn’t just a job, it’s a profoundly impactful mission. If you’re driven by public service, have relevant field experience, and seek purpose over profit, MSF could be your calling.
Need help tailoring your CV for MSF, identifying suitable roles, or preparing for interviews? We’re here to support your journey!
