Menu
© Gabriele François Casini/MSF
An MSF worker on a ship, wearing a lifejacket smiles at a toddler in her arms, as a man wearing coveralls smiles in the background.
22 Sep 16 02 May 18

The application process

Thank you for thinking about working overseas for MSF in Ireland. Below you will find a general guide to the application process for all overseas roles we recruit for in Ireland. 

Every role has a detailed page explaining exactly what skills, qualifications and experience we are looking for - the apply button is at the bottom of every role. 

Jump to the sections below to read more about the process

Applying

Before you apply please take a good look at the job specification page for the role you would like to apply for and make sure you can commit to working for us for at least nine months (surgeons, anaesthetists, epidemiologists and obstetricians/gynaecologists may do shorter missions, please see the relevant job specification page). 

We can only accept applications from Irish residents (Irish citizens and those eligible to work in Ireland). 

Feedback

Currently we are receiving a high volume of applications and it therefore may take a while to receive feedback. Please be patient, we will provide feedback to all applicants.

Interview

Your interview will be in our Dublin office and will last for approximately 1.5 hours. 

You will need to bring the following documents: 

  • Four passport photos (standard passport photos with a white background, suitable for passports and visas)
  • Valid passport 
  • Current proof of address (utility bill/bank statement from the last three months) 
  • Any relevant certificates and diplomas (originals only please)
  • Irish driving licence (if you have one) 
  • Proof of medical council registration for medical roles

Applicants for some positions will be required to take a technical test. We will advise you of this in advance.

Acceptance onto MSF's register

Following a successful interview you will be accepted onto what we call MSF's register.

MSF's register is a database of professionals around the world who are available for deployment to any MSF project that has a vacancy for their job role.

You will not be paid while you are on the register unless you have been placed in the field. 

Waiting for the right role

Once you have been accepted onto the register, you are considered available to work for MSF. It is really important that you take this seriously and are very clear about your availability.

Finding your first role

Finding a role that is suitable for someone going on their first mission with MSF can take anywhere between one to nine months.

We want to make sure that you are matched to a position that is comfortable for you. When considering you for a position, we will take into account your skills, previous experience and language skills (the ability to speak French greatly increases your chances of being matched to a mission quickly).

Going where you are most needed

It is not possible for you to choose a particular location. Placements are determined by the operational needs in the field and we ask you to be as flexible as possible so we can place you where you are needed most.

This is a competitive process as many people apply globally for a limited number of positions.

Pre-departure training

Once you are accepted onto the register, you will be invited to attend a 2 day induction in our London office.

Once matched to a mission, Prior to your departure, you may also be invited to attend a one-week preparation course you known as the PPD (preparation for primary departure). 

You will also have briefings in the Irish office and may have some technical training to prepare you for your role.

Your first mission

We will arrange your flights to and from the project in which you will be working. 

On arrival in the field you will be given a full briefing by the in-country team, and when you reach the project there will be a handover period with the person you will be replacing.