Application Process

From application to first assignment

1. Step 01

   Research

   Before applying to work with MSF, we encourage you to take the time to learn more about our organisation. You can do this by reading about our work on our website, registering for recruitment updates, and watching recordings of our webinars. These webinars cover a range of topics and roles, helping you gain a better understanding of MSF.

   Please also make sure you carefully review the role-specific requirements, as well as the essential criteria that apply to all candidates before submitting your application.

2. Step 02

   Application and screening

   In addition to fully completing our online application form, your application should include:

   • An up-to-date CV (maximum 5 pages). Use our guide on how to write a CV to learn about the preferred format for applying to MSF.
   • A motivation letter outlining your reasons for wanting to work with MSF.
   • The relevant MSF Skills Assessment Form for your profile, available on the profile-specific page.

   We aim to assess and respond to all applications within one month of receipt. As we are unable to consider incomplete applications, please ensure that all required documents are submitted correctly.

   Please see MSF CV Guide for guidance on how to write a CV for MSF purposes.

3. Step 03

   Your interview

   If we believe your profile matches our current project needs, you will be invited to an online interview. The interview process typically takes up to two hours.

   We use a competency-based interview format, during which we will ask you to provide specific examples of situations that demonstrate the skills and qualities required of our international staff.

4. Step 04

   References and registration

   After your interview, references will be collected to complete your candidate profile. Referees should be recent managers who have worked with you within the past five years.

   If you are selected to progress to the next stage of the recruitment process, you will also be required to complete your registration profile and submit additional documentation, including a medical assessment and police checks, all within one month.

   It is important to note that successful entry into the international staff talent pool does not constitute an offer of employment or contract with Médecins Sans Frontières Australia.

5. Step 05

   Training

   The final stage of the recruitment process is the successful completion of a full three-day online interactive training session called the "Welcome to MSF", attended alongside up to 20 other participants.

   This course aims to provide you with:

   • an understanding of the values, philosophy, policies and activities of MSF
   • an introduction to the tools and resources available to you in the field
   • an understanding of the placement and departure process, and
   • an introduction to life in the field.

   The course is held several times throughout the year, and successful completion is mandatory for entry into the international staff talent pool.

6. Step 06

   Placement

   If successful in the recruitment process, you will be placed in the international staff talent pool. An MSF Career Manager will then work with you to identify a suitable assignment. We will endeavour to find you an assignment within six months of your availability start date; however, we cannot guarantee that an assignment will be available within this timeframe. The availability of assignments will depend on current project needs, and we are unable to accommodate requests for placement in a specific country or project.

   It is important to note that successful entry into the international staff talent pool does not constitute an offer of employment or a contract with Médecins Sans Frontières Australia.

7. Step 07

   Departure

   You will be provided with as much notice as possible about the date of your assignment starting. Once your assignment is confirmed, you will have briefings prior to arriving at the project. You will also receive pre-departure administration support from our team, including assistance with travel and visa arrangements.