WHO WE ARE
Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) is the world’s leading emergency medical humanitarian aid organization. We offer assistance to populations in distress, to victims of disaster and of armed conflict, without discrimination and irrespective of race, religion, creed or political affiliation. Volunteers work where the need is immediate, combining direct medical care with a commitment to bearing witness and speaking out about the underlying causes of suffering.
CRITERIA
- Current and valid registration
- Minimum of 2 years post-qualification work experience
- Willingness to work in unstable environments
- Available to work between 9 and 12 months
- Relevant traveling and/or working experience in a developing country or similar environment
WHO WE NEED
Nurses particularly well suited for work with MSF are those with training in - Public Health, Nutrition, Infectious Diseases, Pediatrics, Obstetrics, Emergency, Operating Theatre and HIV / AIDS
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT
Volunteers receive a monthly indemnity (approx. $900-$1000 CAD.) to help cover their fixed costs at home and to help them to re-integrate after a mission. In the field, volunteers also receive an allowance for personal expenses.
MSF will also cover the costs of living and accommodation in the project country as well as all transportation costs to and from the project.
For each volunteer, MSF will take out an insurance policy to cover health, luggage, private and professional liability, repatriation, accidents and flights.
Working hours vary considerably depending on the project and the period. During an emergency, work can be hectic and long hours of work may be required. However, time is normally set aside for the necessary rest and relaxation.
After 12 months of experience with MSF, an employment contract may be offered to the volunteer.
Besides these practical considerations, there is the intangible benefit that working for MSF is a challenging and rewarding personal and professional experience that allows you to help people in a very real way.
MSF encourages people to continue working for the organisation beyond their first mission, and we offer various career opportunities to our volunteers. You can broaden your professional experience by working on various aid programs, where conditions and your responsibilities vary - nutrition programs, drug distribution programs, training programs, in conflict areas, refugee camps, etc. Gaining more and varied MSF field experience makes you eligible for positions such as Logistical-, Medical-, or Project Coordinator, or Head of Mission.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders Canada - www.msf.ca
msfvancouver@msf.ca