About Company
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent medical humanitarian organisation providing aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, natural disasters, and exclusion from healthcare. Our teams offer medical assistance based on need alone, irrespective of race, religion, gender, or political affiliation. Operating in over 70 countries worldwide, MSF is committed to saving lives and alleviating suffering in some of the most challenging environments. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), MSF has a long-standing presence, delivering essential medical care, including emergency response, malnutrition treatment, maternal and child health, and comprehensive rehabilitation services, to communities facing immense adversity.
Job Description
Are you a dedicated and compassionate Physiotherapist with a profound passion for humanitarian work and an unwavering commitment to restoring mobility and improving the quality of life for vulnerable populations? Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is actively seeking a highly motivated Physiotherapist specializing in Rehabilitation to join our vital, dynamic team in Kalemie, Tanganyika Province, DR Congo. This presents an unparalleled opportunity to apply your specialized expertise in a challenging yet incredibly rewarding environment, directly contributing to holistic patient recovery and making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals recovering from trauma, illness, and various physical impairments.
In this crucial role, you will be at the forefront of providing comprehensive, patient-centered rehabilitation services, meticulously tailored to the unique needs of our diverse patient cohort. Your extensive responsibilities will span from conducting thorough initial assessments and accurate diagnosis of musculoskeletal, neurological, and other physical conditions, to the meticulous development and diligent implementation of individualized, evidence-based treatment plans. Working collaboratively within a vibrant multidisciplinary team, you will engage closely with medical doctors, nurses, occupational therapists, mental health professionals, and community health workers to ensure integrated and holistic patient care. You will skillfully employ a broad range of therapeutic interventions, including but not limited to advanced manual therapy techniques, personalized exercise prescription, effective electrotherapy modalities (where applicable and available), gait training, pain management strategies, and vital patient and caregiver education. Adaptability to available resources and cultural contexts will be paramount.
Beyond direct clinical patient care, this impactful position involves a strong component of capacity building and meaningful community engagement. You will be instrumental in training and mentoring local rehabilitation staff and community volunteers, sharing your invaluable knowledge and practical expertise to strengthen sustainable, long-term rehabilitation capabilities within the community. Furthermore, you will play a pivotal role in advocating for the rights and needs of people with disabilities, actively promoting inclusive practices, and raising critical awareness about the indispensable importance of rehabilitation services in underserved regions. The operational environment in Kalemie presents unique challenges, demanding exceptional adaptability, unwavering resilience, profound cultural sensitivity, and a deep sense of empathy. If you are ready to embrace these challenges, contribute your invaluable skills to a profound humanitarian mission, and witness the transformative impact of your work daily, we strongly encourage you to apply. Join MSF and become an integral part of a global movement dedicated to bringing life-saving medical humanitarian assistance to those who need it most.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct comprehensive physical assessments and formulate accurate diagnoses for patients with various musculoskeletal, neurological, and post-operative conditions.
- Develop and implement individualized, evidence-based physiotherapy treatment plans, adapting interventions to the patient's condition, cultural context, and available resources.
- Provide a range of therapeutic interventions, including manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, mobility training, pain management, and use of assistive devices.
- Collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary healthcare team (doctors, nurses, occupational therapists, mental health professionals) to ensure integrated and holistic patient care.
- Educate patients and their caregivers on rehabilitation techniques, injury prevention, and long-term self-management strategies.
- Train and mentor local healthcare staff and community health workers in basic physiotherapy principles and rehabilitation techniques to enhance local capacity.
- Maintain accurate and detailed patient records, monitoring progress and adjusting treatment plans as necessary.
- Participate in community outreach and awareness campaigns regarding physical rehabilitation and disability inclusion.
Required Skills
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Physiotherapy from a recognized institution.
- Minimum of 3 years of post-qualification clinical experience in rehabilitation settings (e.g., orthopedic, neurological, trauma).
- Strong clinical assessment and diagnostic skills.
- Proficiency in various physiotherapy techniques and modalities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural team.
- Demonstrated ability to adapt to challenging and resource-limited environments.
- Fluency in English (written and spoken).
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience working with an international NGO or in a humanitarian/developing country context.
- Proficiency in French (spoken and written) is highly desirable.
- Experience in training and capacity building of local staff.
- Familiarity with tropical diseases and their rehabilitation implications.
- Certifications in specialized areas such as manual therapy, neuro-rehabilitation, or pain management.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and humanitarian context.
- Comprehensive medical and health insurance coverage.
- Accommodation and food provided during mission.
- Round-trip airfare and visa costs covered for international staff.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning within a global organization.
- Challenging and rewarding work making a tangible difference in vulnerable communities.
- Psychological support and debriefing services.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the qualifications are encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your CV and cover letter clearly highlight your relevant experience and motivation for working with Médecins Sans Frontières in a humanitarian context. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.