Thank you for thinking about working overseas for MSF 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.

Before you apply take a good look at the job specification page for the role you would like to apply for.

Make sure you can commit to working for us for at least nine months.

Some roles may do shorter assignments. See the relevant job specification page:

  • anaesthetists
  • epidemiologists
  • obstetricians/gynaecologists
  • surgeons

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

Within two to three months*, we'll give you feedback on your application.

You may be sent a questionnaire.

You'll be invited to an interview if we think that you have the skills and experience we need.

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

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.

After a successful interview you're accepted onto the MSF register.

Our register is:

  • a database of professionals
  • who are available to work in any MSF project
  • that has a vacancy for their job role.

You're not paid while you are on the register unless you're placed in the field. 

Once you're accepted onto the register, you're considered available to work for MSF.

It's important that you take this seriously. You must be clear about your availability.

Finding your first role

Finding a role suitable for your first assignment can take anywhere between one to nine months.

We want to make sure that you're matched to a position that is comfortable for you. 

When considering you for a position, we'll take into account:

  • your skills
  • previous experience
  • language skills (especially French and Arabic)

Going where you are most needed 

It is not possible for you to choose a particular location.

We determine placements by the operational needs.

We'll need you to be as flexible as possible so we can place you where you're most needed.

This is a competitive process. People apply globally for a limited number of positions.

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.

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

On arrival in the field you're given a full briefing by the in-country team.

When you reach your project there will be a handover period with the person you'll be replacing.